PIERCE LEHANE WINS ROTAX WINTER CUP IN SPAIN

Pierce Lehane crossing the line for victory in Spain (Pic: RGMMC Media)

Australian Pierce Lehane has kickstarted his 2015 campaign in stunning style with victory at the Rotax Winter Cup at the Campillos circuit in Spain on Sunday.

After qualifying second fastest on Friday, the Sydney teenager posted a win, second and fifth placing in his three heat races to secure pole position for Sunday morning’s Pre-Final.

In his first event for the Strawberry Racing outfit Lehane then went on to dominate the pre-final before claiming a narrow victory in the final.

The win, his first on European soil, sets up Lehane for a big year ahead where he will contest the Rotax Max Euro Challenge, which he now receives free entry in to courtesy of his victory in Spain.

“It’s a great way to debut with the Strawberry Racing team,” said Lehane.

“I was one of the fastest drivers all weekend and my kart was ‘on point’ every time I took to the track which is a real credit to everyone in the team and also everyone at Cream engines. They never stopped looking to improve and provide me with the best package possible.

“After an up and down season last year in Europe it’s great to bounce back on top. This will give us good momentum leading into the first round of the Rotax Max Euro Challenge in Salbris.”

Lehane greeted he chequered flag half a kart-length ahead of British driver Brett Ward with Austrian Thomas Preining third.