A dramatic last five laps at the Castrol Toyota Racing Series has left New Zealand driver Mark Armstrong fuming after car trouble stopped him from a podium finish in the final lap.
New Zealand driver Marcus Armstrong Photo: © Bruce Jenkins 2018 © Photosport Ltd 2018
From pole position the race was dominated by Armstrong until approaching the 31st lap.
Driver Richard Verschoor of the Netherlands spotted an opportunity to overtake the Canatabrian forcing him outwide after charging down the inside.
Despite second place still being a possiblity and a New Zealand Grand Prix title still within reach, the safety car took to the track after fellow New Zealand driver Taylor Cockerton seemed to have run out of gas and was left in a dangerous position.
After four laps the car was removed leaving a single lap to sprint to the chequered flag, but when Armstrong lauched to make his dash the engine failed along with any hopes of a win. The 17-year-old was seen throwing his steering wheel during the heartbreaking conclusion.
Verschoor ended up lifting the Grand Prix trophy, while Russian Robert Shwartzman claimed the 15-race Toyota Racing Series title. Both Shwartzman and Armstrong belong to the Ferrari academy team.
- RNZ
