Anderson makes the Top 10 for the weekend

Following on from the initial shakedown on Friday, Andrew headed out for the first test session to get a read on the chassis improvements.  After a couple of timed runs, it was back to the pits for some changes.  Unfortunately some component issues were experienced and the ITM Commodore spent the second half of the session in the pits as the team tried to get it repaired.

 This meant that the second test session was crucial to getting the car set up right.  The right balance was eluding the team and Andrew was unable to improve his lap times.  “The car is responding to changes which is good, but it is proving to be very sensitive at the moment” said Andrew.

With a plan for qualifying, Andrew rolled out and was able to make gains on old rubber.  Making a couple of tweaks mid session and bolting on green rubber, Andrew was able to improve on his lap times, but missed out on the top ten shootout by 0.4 of a second to be fifteenth.  “The car balance is improving, it’s nearly there and the team will dial it in some more for the races.  We will be on the charge!” commented Andrew.

 Sunday brought more warm and sunny weather.  After a review on set up direction, the changes made were evident early on in race 1.  With much improved car balance, Andrew was able to effect some passes in the opening laps.  Avoiding other competitors have off-track excursions, Andrew improved his starting position to finish tenth, but still needed to find some more lap speed.

Prior to race 2, all drivers competing at the Altherm 500 gathered on the grid for a minute’s silence in remembrance of the Pike River miners.  With the temperature rising, the narrow window of car tuning was again cloudy for the team with very minor changes taking the edge off the chassis.  Overusing the tyres, Andrew faded back a few spots to come home in thirteenth position.

Starting the reverse grid race from eighth position, the aim was to finish the weekend with a strong performance.  With good tyres and further adjustments, the ITM Commodore showed signs of improvements.  However, through the 20 lap race, the rubber was getting used up and the mid-corner balance that the team have been chasing eluded Andrew again.  Fighting to hold position, Andrew pinched the brakes at turn one and flat spotted a tyre.  Andrew mad it home in tenth position.

Andrew finished the round in tenth position and has moved up the championship ladder to thirteenth position.  The ITM Racing team now has a well deserved break over the festive season before heading south again for the Invercargill and Timaru double header in January.

The ITM Racing team would like to thank our team partners for their ongoing support: ITM Building Centres, Marley, E-Frame, Sika, Hitachi Power Tools, Wattyl, Haydn Brush Company, Valvoline, Pink Batts, GIB, New Balance, Computer Leasing NZ, Moselle Panel and Paint, PPG, Pinepac Group, West City Holden, Davy Tyre Services, Cottle Motors and Subway. 

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