Nashville, Tenn. (July 12, 2006) - The waiting game is over! 2005 Formula D Champion Rhys Millen took center stage in the winner’s circle as he won the first of what is, hopefully, many victories, utilizing the consistency and control of his Bridgestone Potenza RE-01R tires. His triumph occurred in Round 4 of Formula D’s Championship Series on Saturday, July 8, at Infineon Raceway in Sonoma, CA. The win continues the Bridgestone brand’s podium success, making this the third out of four rounds in which Bridgestone has finished in the top two.
The course proved to be challenging with downhill speeds into the first clipping point exceeding 80 mph! Many drivers grazed the concrete barrier resulting in body damage and low scores. Millen maneuvered his Red Bull Pontiac GTO equipped with Bridgestone Potenza RE-01R tires throughout the event as if he had designed the course himself. Millen’s Sonoma victory narrows the gap to only nine points between second place and the series points leader, with three events remaining. Rhys was all smiles as he received a first place trophy and two contingency awards from Bridgestone, all while proudly wearing his red Bridgestone winner’s cap.
“What more can I say, we took first place,� said an excited Rhys Millen. “I couldn’t have made it this far without the consistency and phenomenal performance of the Potenza RE-01R.�
Rich Rutherford of Tool Racing and The Tire Rack was able to bypass the magnetic appeal of the concrete barrier and advance into the circle of the Top 32 drivers. Griping the line and nailing each turn with ease allowed a more aggressive competition for Rutherford, but he fell short of the next round by two points.
“The speed of my downhill entry could have caused serious problems, but the traction of the Potenza RE-01R allowed me to stay in control and grip consistently in the turns without hesitation,� said Rutherford.
“Bridgestone Potenza RE-01R and our first-place win in Formula D is a great testament to our product. We are extremely proud of our partnership with Rhys Millen and his team� said Rodreich Stotsenburg, UHP Marketing & Education Support Manager, BFNT. “We are eager to head to Evergreen Speedway in Washington next month.�
Drivers will compete in Round 5 of 7 next month at Evergreen Speedway in Washington on August 18.