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Monza,
Italy, September 15th 2008: Following his impressive second
season in the GP2 Series, Formula 1's official feeder formula, India's
Karun Chandhok picked up the award for the "best
driving style" at a glittering ceremony at the Sporting
Club Monza in Italy on Sunday evening.
The 24-year-old from Chennai, who is backed by Red Bull,
Punj Lloyd, JK Tyre, Amaron, ICSA Logistics and Sidvin,
ended the 20-race season in the top 10 in points. His year was highlighted
by victory at Hockenheim in Germany, as well as podiums at classic
grand prix venues Monaco and Silverstone for his iSport International
team.
"Overall,
it's been a positive season. I am very pleased with the progress
I have made this year,"
said Chandhok. "Winning
my second GP2 race was a big highlight, and having been a regular
front runner this year has put me in a good position in the que
of drivers trying to break into Formula 1.
"To
win the award for the 'best driving style' is a fantastic way to
end the season, and one I feel really proud of. It was the only
award that was voted for by the fans of the championship on the
GP2 website which makes it more special."
"Looking
back, I'm a bit frustrated that the second half of the season didn't
deliver as much as it promised points-wise, and our terrible luck
on Sundays, in the sprint races, really hurt my points total. In
the middle of the year in Budapest we were right in the fight for
the top 5, but since then our luck changed and 7 non-scores put
me on the back foot. It's particularly frustrating since 5 of those
non-scores were out of my control but such is life. I learnt a lot
this year and will carry that into next season."
Rather than resting on his laurels he has earned this year, Karun
is now embarking on a three-week intensive fitness camp
in Italy as his plans for 2009 come together. "I'd
like to thank everyone at iSport International. They are a great
team of guys, and I'd also like to wish Bruno Senna the best of
luck for the future. I really enjoyed working with him this year
and I think we pushed each other hard. Of course, I couldn't have
done it all without the support of our partners Red Bull, Punj Lloyd,
JK Tyre, Amaron, ICSA Logistics and Sidvin so thank you to all of
them."
Looking
to the future Karun said "At
the moment it's a bit too early to have confirmation of my program
for 2009. This year there were very limited options in terms of
race seats in Formula 1 so it looks like the best option for me
in 2009 would be to be a test driver in Formula 1 and gain some
experience in preparation for 2010. The test driving role these
days is quite limited so I think it will be important to combine
that with a season of GP2 to ensure that I am racing often at a
highly competitive level. We are in discussion with Formula 1 and
GP2 teams in order to put this program in place I am optimistic
that that by the end of November, I will have a clearer idea on
things."
INDMOTORSPORT.COM
CONGRATULATES KARUN ON WINNING THIS PRESTIGIOUS AWARD.
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