The third round of the 2023 GB3 Championship started out as a tough one for Jarrod Waberski, but the South African driver pulled out all the stops to claim his maiden podium position in the International series last weekend (3 / 4 June).
Friday’s qualifying was a disaster, with the session being red flagged whilst Jarrod was on his hot lap. This severely hampered his starting positions for the first two races, but, those who have been watching Jarrod’s progress, are well aware of his resolve and fighting spirit.
Jarrod lined up 17th on the grid for the first race and did well to avoid the numerous first lap incidents, which ultimately resulted in the safety car being deployed. He worked his way into a formidable 10th place. Unfortunately, he was later issued with a 10 second penalty for purportedly gaining an advantage after the safety car boards had come out. This dropped him down the results, but also served to fuel his determination.
Race two was the first full race of the season, with no major accidents. Jarrod started from 12th and found himself in a ten-car train for position. He bounced between 9th and 12th throughout the race, but eventually took the flag in 11th.
The final race of the weekend started from a completely reversed grid. This put Jarrod in a very competitive 9th place for the start. He had a very good launch of the line and was slicing his way through the field when a number of competitors crashed ahead of him, causing the safety car to be deployed yet again. When the dust had settled, not only was Jarrod still on track, but the BRDC Rising Star, was holding steady in third place. Jarrod didn’t put a wheel wrong to take a hard-earned podium finish. His first in a GB3 car, his first with Fortec Motorsport and all on his first ever outing at the Spa-Francorchamps Grand Prix Circuit.
“I am ecstatic about ending the weekend on such a high note. It is definitely the boost I needed to re-energise my 2023 season. Massive thanks to my team, sponsors and supporters,” exclaimed Jarrod.
It is now a very short break, with the next round of the championship taking place at Snetterton on 17 / 18 June.
Published by: Motorsport Marketing Services
Photography by: Jakob Ebrey
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