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)