 by 
June 29th, 2002
Barbagallo Raceway, Western Australia
Round 6, Race 1
Skaife on target for six straight
MARK Skaife’s relentless championship challenge continued in
the West this evening, the Holden star taking out the opening leg of the
VB 300.
His invincible form – today’s easy win from pole is his 11th race
victory of the season – has him firmly on track for an historic sixth
successive round win. And he further extended his imposing
championship lead over second-placed Todd Kelly by 38 points.
Skaife followed the script: lead into the first corner, pit for fresh
rubber early, and when all is said and done in pitlane, emerge in the
lead and cruise to a comfortable victory. It’s getting
monotonous.
Jason Bright and Greg Murphy filled the minor places for an all-TWR
podium. Murphy came from 12th on the grid after a disappointing
performance in qualifying.
Indeed, a number of top-line drivers saved face after sluggish
qualifying results to put themselves back in contention this weekend.
Craig Lowndes’ storming drive was the best of them, charging through
the field from 18th on the grid to finish in the top five.
"Our car was not great in qualifying, but it quickly proved to be
very good in the race," Lowndes said.
"This is only the first of three very hard races this weekend, so
if we can keep on improving I'm sure we're with a shot of taking at
least a race win."
Marcos Ambrose said he “got out of jail” with a drive from 16th to
claim seventh, while the inexperienced Max Wilson again failed to
capitalise on his sensational qualifying pace, falling from third to
13th.
Steven Johnson, who started last on the grid after a dismal qualifying
run, was the race’s only retirement with chronic electrical problems
on lap 24.
"This round has been a bit of a disaster so far, but I guess the
only way is up!" said Johnson.
Two more races are scheduled for tomorrow, but every indication suggests
a repeat result.
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