Asaro Knocked Out of Marlboro Masters Race

August 11, 2003 (Toronto, Canada): Billy Asaro was able to complete just five laps in yesterday’s thirteenth running of the Marlboro Masters, an invitational Formula 3 race at Zandvoort, Holland. The 21 year-old Canadian was knocked off the track and suffered suspension damage while making an outside pass on lap six.

Asaro, a regular in the British Formula 3 Championship, started nineteenth after qualifying sessions on Saturday narrowed the field from 53 entries to 37 starters. Following a good start, the pack got through the first two corners cleanly before an incident occurred at turn three. As a train of cars braked, Asaro was hit from behind and spun around. Facing the wrong direction, he had to let the field pass before turning around and attempting to get back into the race.

After completing the first lap dead last, Asaro quickly began regaining positions, but just a few laps later found himself stuck behind French driver Eric Salignon. The Frenchman’s defensive tactics thwarted all attempts to pass, so Asaro went for a daring maneuver around the outside. Salignon refused to concede the place and moved across, hitting Asaro’s car. The pair spun off the circuit and retired on the spot.

“The race turned out to be a disappointing end to what had been a promising weekend,” said Asaro. “Menu F3 Motorsport gave me a very good car. We were continually getting faster as I learned the track and the team closed in on the right set up. I think we had the potential to gain several positions in the race.

“I would like to thank the Menu team for all their hard work and for giving me the opportunity to race with them at this incredible event. The track, atmosphere and competition were all incredible. It was a fantastic weekend.”

Asaro now returns to England where he will reunite with the P1 Motorsport team that fields his car in the British series. Next on the schedule are a pair of races at Thruxton, a circuit in Andover, England, August 16-17.

The Marlboro Masters is a premier Formula 3 event drawing 100,000 spectators to see top teams and drivers from the various European Formula 3 championships. Competitors from across the continent are invited to Zandvoort to battle head-to-head on one of the world’s greatest circuits.