When the year started no one expected to be where we are right now in terms of results. That's been covered at length. The real key to this story, as it unfolded, has been the new names placing themselves into contention.
“Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.” - Roman philosopher Seneca
The next steps on this path are then governed by the adjustment from the driver, and today’s driver in question is none other than the current series leader Dylan Rudd.
First off Dylan, there’s been this constant build in speed over the last 12-18 months. Then the opportunity to work with James Scott and Jarrad Filsell comes along. Walk me through that moment and how that came about? That's a huge opportunity, but it also meant moving away from a great friendship with Shawn Mcnamara and the team at 9INE5IVE.
I received a message from James at the end of last year asking if I would be interested in joining Lobs, the opportunity to work with the best drivers. I couldn't turn it down. Obviously it was hard to leave 9INE5IVE as I had been there for so long but you don't get an opportunity like this everyday.
Was there a goal you had in mind for this year’s championship?
I hadn't set any goals for the championship this year, just see where I end up at the end of the year.
Was there a moment where you noticed the points after Sebring and a lightbulb clicked on that you were going to be a championship threat this year?
No not really, I think it's a bit early to be talking about being a championship threat as we are only at Round 3 of 12 and still a long way to go, see where we are at, come the pointy end of the year, and hopefully we are still in the hunt.
You’ve got 2 Queensland State Titles to your name in karting. Understanding and dealing with pressure naturally comes with that territory. Have you changed your mindset about the races?
Mindset is still the same, drive as fast as possible with minimal mistakes, there are a few extra things to think about in the sim like strategy etc.
Tire fall off late in the stint was an issue last time out at the Red Bull Ring. Did you have a look back at the data and feel confident you know the next steps? Was there a setup difference to Scott and Filsell or was it all driving differences?
No setup difference between the cars, it was all driving differences and after going back through the data I know what I need to improve on for future races.
What's the team environment like in the Speedcafe Lobs Esports team?
The team vibe is good, everyone is working well together and will only be getting better as the season goes on.
There’s a lot of race experience and some of the highest Racing IQ’s to bounce off in the background. Has there been much of a change in the way you go racing as a result? Heck…. I’ll take a tip or 5 if you have them!
Not a great deal, the most beneficial thing has been their knowledge for driving technique, tyre life etc which all helps during races.
What's the goal for the race at Jerez?
Winning is always the goal.
Finally, the most important question. Does Pineapple belong on Pizza?
Pineapple does not belong on pizza.
