13.10.2004 From zero base to heroes, the Fiat Palio Racing Team continued their successful foray into their inaugural season of the SA Production Car Championship at East London last weekend

From zero base to heroes, the Fiat Palio Racing Team continued their successful foray into their inaugural season of the SA Production Car Championship in round 9 of the Vodacom Power Tour at East London on the weekend (9 October).

Team leader Mike O’Sullivan had the debut of the Fiat Stilo on his mind, leaving Dawie Brough and Theunnis Eloff to sustain the Palio name in Class C. The team’s consistent efforts during the season paid off again as Brough cleverly won the first heat on the finish line.

“The Palio Racing Team’s consistent development, teamwork and spirit has been fantastic to watch,” said Michael Burkhart, general manager for marketing at Fiat Auto SA.

“The combination of excellent drivers and excellent development work this season has made the Fiat Palio the car to beat in Class C.”

While Heat Two did not go as well for the Palio Racing Team, Brough was right on the pace only to be boxed in with no way out and relegated to third position in a close fought battle.

“It is great to see such close competition right through the field in production cars at the moment,” said Burkhart.

“Of course, it is great to be on top. But the most important thing is that the spectators are being entertained and therein lies the sustainability of the series.”

The Palio Racing Team moves to the final round of the Vodacom Power Tour at Kyalami on 6 November where they will hopefully continue to show their pace setting form.