Rome wasn’t built in a day: Kasperczyk describes ERC learning curve

Kasperczyk is contesting the inaugural ERC Junior Under 28 Championship for the Tiger Energy Drink Rally Team but is short of time behind the wheel on loose surfaces.

“My ERC outings have boosted my gravel experience and pace, but Rome wasn't built in a day,” said the Polish Ford Fiesta R5 driver. “Comparing to our rivals we are still newcomers, who want to improve our skills with every single stage. I have done some kilometres on loose surfaces in winter and I think that I am both physically and mentally prepared.”

Kasperczyk made his Azores Airlines Rallye debut last season, one of four gravel-based rounds of the ERC he tackled in 2016.

“Although it is going to be our second outing in this amazing event, for sure we cannot say that we know the Azores Airlines Rallye,” said Kasperczyk. “It is not only the matter of how many kilometres we covered on these unique gravel roads. In previous seasons the Azores Rallye many times showed its unpredictable nature with changeable weather playing the key role. The weather changes here so quickly that you just cannot get enough experience to master all the conditions which you may encounter. Of course, this makes this thrilling rally even more exciting. I think that it is very important to focus during the recce, which is a challenge when you travel in such a picturesque and scenic landscape. Anyway, the pacenotes must be very precise, not only when you enter the high-altitude section, full of fog decreasing the visibility to 40-50 metres.”

Of his objectives for the event, Kasperczyk added: “I am not thinking about the place I would like to finish. I am focusing on doing this event as good as I can. I want to leave the island satisfied with my work.”