The 2017 Formula Masters Series saw an exhilarating opening round unfold last April 7 to 9 at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia. Right off the bat, the Pinnacle Motorsport racing team displayed a brilliant show of force as it scored its first victory of the season.
The team’s momentum began when its 3 ace drivers Taylor Cockerton, Ben Grimes, and Antolin Gonzalez clinched 1st, 9th, and 10th places, respectively during the qualifying heats.
However in Race 1, things took an unexpected turn as an incident on lap 3 prematurely ended Cockerton’s race. Gonzalez, on the other hand, crossed the line in 4th, while Grimes trailed along in 5th.
In Race 2, Cockerton went back into action. Determined to recover from his Race 1 loss, the New Zealander eventually set the fastest lap, which brought him up to 3rd place at the end of the race. Grimes finished as he did in Race 1, while Gonzalez settled for 7th.
Cockerton’s determination paid off greatly as he took a commanding lead from start to finish in Race 3. This gave the team its first taste of victory for this year. Another highlight was the remarkable climb from last to 7th place by the hard-charging Filipino—British driver Grimes. On the other hand, Gonzalez found himself crossing the line in 11th place as a result of a spin.
When the 4th and final race went underway, all 3 drivers gave their best to end the opening round on a high note. Although no claiming the top spot, Cockerton managed to repeat his Race 2 result, landing at the 3rd position on the podium. As for Gonzalez, the Spanish driver earn a hard-fought 5th place. Meanwhile, Grimes didn’t make it to the checkered flag as he was hit by another driver.
All in all, it was still a great start for the Pinnacle Motorsport racing team. Catch the racing action again as the 2017 Formula Masters Series moves up to Round 2 on May 5 to 7, still at the Sepang International Circuit.
