Hitosuyama NOVA a craving for Le Mans in the Aston Martin DBR9.

Hitotsuyama is not an unknown name for the most faithful readers Endurance-Info. At the time of the Japan Le Mans Challenge, the team had already answered this, winning the GT1 title with a Ferrari 550. So it's no surprise that the team was fielded in nippon Asian Le Mans Series, but with an Aston Martin DBR9 this time. After Race 1, concluded on the second step of the podium in the class, Hidekazu Oniki, President of Nova Engineering (who runs the DBR9) was kind enough to answer our questions.

Hidekazu, are you satisfied with your second?

"Not at all! In fact, we had a car well balanced and consistent. Our strategy was to start on pole and that our lead driver creates a gap for our second driver. But with the downgrade, we are the slender back of the grid and we lost some time back. We were first when changing drivers, but not with the expected advance. Moreover, JLOC changed only two tires on his last pit stop and they have earned and precious time. "

What is the purpose for Race 2?

"Simply win to clinch the invitation for the 24 Heures du Mans 2010. It's really our main goal. Le Mans is the best race of the planet and we want to be. The Asian Le Mans Series is the best way for us to prepare for participation in Le Mans. Is the right race. "

Have you been here?

"Not with my own team, but on two occasions personally. The first with Honda in 1995 when we won our category with the NSX. The second time with Nissan in 1997, with the R390. "

What is your program in 2010?

"It's hard to say, but first we are not happy with the settlement of the Super GT. There are too many exceptions for certain competitors. We prefer the rules of the FIA GT and Le Mans Series where the rules are the same for everyone. However, we have no plans to make Le Mans series: we would like, but it's difficult with the current meet budgets. "

But would you be interested in an Asian Le Mans Series taking place over several meetings?

"Yes, this would be ideal. Four or five events in Asia would be a good thing. In fact, I am very pleased with the organization of this championship: it waited so long! "

One last question: Will adjust the Aston Martin DBR9 Regulation 2010?

"Our Aston Martin has all the latest developments and, if we are caught in Le Mans, we will buy the necessary kit. We have full technical support. "

Interview by Anthony Megevand
endurance-info.com

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