Paul Stokell storms opening win

Paul Stokell storms opening win

JAKARTA (JP): Experience stoked Australian Paul Stokell's
forceful drive to victory in the first race of the Formula
Brabham championship at the Sentul circuit yesterday.

Driving a Reynard 91D, Stokell (left above) completed the 20
laps on the 3.9-kilometer circuit in 28:05.552, ahead of local
favorite Roy Haryanto (left below) who finished more than 29
seconds behind.

Another Australian, Craig Lowndes, came third with a time of
28:37.339.

Stokell, who started from the front grid, also clocked the
fastest lap time of 1:22.859 in the 19th lap.

Despite the loss, Roy stole some thunder from the seasoned
drivers who battled neck-to-neck in yesterday's action packed
race. Bearing the number eight, which represents Indonesia's
heroic month of August, Roy never eased up on pressuring his
Australian rival.

Roy's two teammates, Stanley Irawan and veteran Chandra Alim,
were forced out of the track after 10 laps. Stanley and Chandra
were among the 10 drivers who did not finish.

The race resumes today, with Stokell expected to complete a
double to win the opening leg of the Formula Brabham championship
series. (amd)