After going through an intensive upgrading program to the vehicles, and thorough planning regarding implementation of the Changan Ford Young Driver Development program, the long awaited first round of the 2008 Ford Formula Campus (FFC) was held at the CCC meeting in Beijing Goldenport International Circuit. With the new vehicles and the best crop of current young drivers in China participating in the Championship, the FFC presents a brand new image to the racing scene and the general public in China .

FFC, with its ten years plus history in China is utilized by Changan Ford as one of the vital parts of its domestic strategy. It is also one of the best stepping stone for young drivers” as well. Young drivers have paid great attention to FFC and attracted by the complete driver progression system offered by Changan Ford and FRD (Formula Racing Development)”, hoping to get the opportunity of getting more training and being noticed for their future career plan.

11 drivers were selected to participate for the first race. Majority of the drivers selected are all current top domestic level China with great potential to move to higher level racing in the future; Martin Cao, Juan Carlos Zhu, Fan Gaoxiang, Chin Ka Lok, Chen Ming Hua Xia, Xie Xingzhe, Qian Dingcong, Billie Liu, Li Jing Tao, Jessie Wang as well as Pham Kim Thang, Rich.

Sponsors supporting the championship are all FRD partners such as Baleno, Kumbo Tire and IP .Zone,etc..

Although the qualifying session was cut short but the competition was intense. Finally, Fan Gaoxiang, Juan Carlos Zhu and Chen Ming Hua Xia finished in the top three. Fan said after the session “I am still trying to learn the new FFC vehicle but I think I achieved good result by constantly adjustmenting my cornering rhythm”. Zhu, whose gearbox broken down soon after the start of the session said “Anyway, I am satisfied with ranking second…even I have to drive with only fourth gear for the whole time”. But Cao, who was considered as the favorite of the race would need a good start for the race to recover the lost ground.

Most of these young drivers have accumulated good driving and track experience via karting and other types of Formula racings participation. What they need is more competition opportunities and driving stability. The four FFC races this year will certainly provide the young drivers these needed additional opportunities. They will be doing two 20-laps rounds Sunday and all are looking forward to see their excellent performance.