Paul Ricard: Aston Martin qualifying report

Aston Martin Racing secures second row start for 8 Heures du Castellet

Le Castellet, 10 April 2010. Three Aston Martins qualified at the sun soaked Paul Ricard Circuit in France with the 009 LMP1 car securing third position. Official Aston Martin Racing Partner, Team Signature Racing qualified in eighth with the JMW Vantage GT2 achieving 5th in class.

The 009 Aston Martin ran without trouble with the team strategically choosing their time for a quick lap. Stefan Mucke (DE) who piloted the 009 found himself in traffic initially, but shortly before the chequered flag, posted a 1m42.354 lap only 0.722s behind the second-placed diesel car.

Mucke said "I am pleased with this result. I had a bit of traffic on the first timed lap, but had a clearer run nearer the end. We will only make minor modifications to the car now before the race -- it feels very good at the moment."

Team Principal, George Howard-Chappell commented: "Our qualification is exactly what I had hoped for so I am very pleased to be third behind the two diesels. It was an extremely good lap by Stefan and we have got the car very well set up here which is encouraging for Le Mans in June. We remain realistic so let's see what the race brings us."

The 8 Heures du Castellet will get underway at 11:00 (CET) on Sunday 11th April 2010. Live timing will be available from www.lemans-series.com and live race coverage with Radio Le Mans at www.radiolemans.com.

-source: aston martin