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Another solid run at the final round of the Toyota Racing Series in Taupo has ensured Sam completed his comeback successfully.

The major issue of the NZ Grand Prix – a poor qualifying session, was remedied at Taupo where Sam put his machine on position 3 behind championship rivals Mitch Evans and Earl Bamber.  The first two races drew a good points haul with 3rd and 4th place finishes, with an altercation in the final race being the only thing that stopped a podium for the weekend.

Bought in as a substitute driver for the car vacated by Richie Stanaway, Sam was re-united with the team that ran him in his first season of TRS and enjoyed the experience.

Sam: “It was great to be able to race again in the Toyota Racing Series.  After Manfeild (and feeling terribly unfit) I really hit the gym hard in the hope that another opportunity would eventuate and I felt a lot better in the car. 

It was also good to work the Jimmy and the boys at ETEC Motorsport as I really enjoyed my first season with them and like the way they go racing.  I appreciate the opportunity that Trevor (team owner) gave me and the support of the sponsors that chipped in to make it possible.”

The championship was eventually won on the last lap of the last race by young gun Mitch Evans for the Giles Motorsport Team.