Fourteen-year-old Lucile Cypriano, selected by representatives of the CIK-FIA and Women in Motorsport Commission to receive a funded drive in the 2011 CIK-FIA Karting Academy Trophy, had a mixed weekend in the second round of the series but maintains 18th position of the 49 drivers in the standings.
Cypriano qualified 15th for the opening race, having claimed eighth, seventh and 13th in each of the heats. However, her race was as good as over within two corners following a multiple kart collision. While she managed to restart, she was only able to finish 25th. Starting from this position for the second race, the young Frenchwoman had a trouble-free run to 17th overall.
“Considering it was an event in my home country, I of course expected a better result, especially after the good speed we showed in the previous round in Italy,” explained Lucile. “In the practice and heats we simply were not quick enough and my accident in Race 1 made my frustration even bigger. Fortunately, I ended the weekend on a very positive note: I gained eight positions in Race 2 and for the first time over the whole weekend I managed lap times that were quite equal to the fastest drivers. We worked hard on the kart and I also improved my driving. We learned a lot again during this weekend and I am looking forward to the final round, which will take place in November in Italy. Meanwhile, I will take part in the CIK-FIA Junior World Cup, which will take place on the same circuit of Sarno in three weeks’ time. That will help me gain experience and be fully ready for the Academy Trophy final round.”
Info CIK / © Photo KSP