Gidley Takes Scholarly Approach to Qualifying

Oct 21, 1995
Donington, England – Valvoline Team USA Formula 3 Scholarship winner Memo Gidley encountered a steep learning curve in qualifying for tomorrow’s International Formula 3 Challenge at Donington Park, England.
In his first overseas event, the talented Californian made steady progress in West Surrey Racing’s Mugen/Honda-engined Dallara F395. Following an initial half-day testing run at Donington on Thursday, Gidley carved more than a second from his lap times to earn 16th place on the closely packed 19-car grid.

“The F3 is different to anything I’ve driven before,” observed Gidley. “Smoothness and momentum are everything. These cars have a lot of grip for the power they put out, so any mistake kills your speed, and you can’t afford that in a class this competitive.”

Although the second of two half-hour qualifying periods proved slower than the morning session, Gidley showed he was still learning fast by coming closer to his first session time than most drivers, pulling to within just over a second of the fastest lap overall.

“Memo’s done an impressive job in a difficult situation,” said West Surrey Racing boss Dick Bennetts. “These cars are very subtle and Donington is the kind of circuit which rewards experience. Memo’s new to both but he’s maintained a very good approach.”

Photo: Gidley with livery designer David Aronson