07 – Jono Lester
Country of origin: New Zealand
Date of birth: 18th December 1989 (21)
Race number: 7
Sponsors: Tradezone, Ports of Auckland, Counties Toyota, Vortex Racewear, Hornet Nutrition, Opti-Flex, Sony, Loaded Sports Drink.
Although he gained early recognition for his successes in Formula First single seater racing, Jono Lester is better known for his more recent wins in Porsche racing. However, an impressive TRS debut at the Taupo finale in 2011 has set the scene for an all out effort this season.
“To be a confirmed starter in the 2012 Toyota Racing Series is the best Christmas present I can ask for and it’s a pleasure to be a part of the championship in what will be such a competitive season.”
“The one-off drive in March 2011 at Taupo was with the proviso to compete in the full 2012 championship. At this event I finished 5th, 4th and 4th for fourth overall for the weekend, and learnt a hell of a lot in the process.
That being said, we identified some common ‘tin top’ habits that we aim to iron out in the pre-season test; remembering that the TRS single seater is the first wings and slicks race car I have driven.
This is also my first NZ championship drive since 2009. My last event was the 2009 Hamilton 400 in the Porsche GT3, which I won from Gaunt and Vincent. Since, I’ve done dribs and drabs, tested in Europe and the Middle East, raced in the Porsche Supercup and competed in time attack racing, but nothing to the level of satisfying my hunger like this TRS opportunity will do!
“The efforts of my family, the Toyota Racing Series management and ETEC Motorsport have been instrumental in my place on the grid, and there’s nothing in this world more motivating for a driver than a simple opportunity. With the economy the way it is, each and every one of us out there is lucky to have one.”
“That motivation has my mind focussed on one thing and one thing only, and that is to win the championship and get my career back on the right track.”
“I’ll be one of a select few flying the kiwi flag and we will be out there to show the International drivers our very best in speed, competition, sportsmanship and camaraderie.”
“The first person to alert me to the benefits of the TRS was Chris Amon. He’s been a real help over the past twelve months and is providing some terrific knowledge moving forward as I work towards a sports prototype drive overseas.”
“I’ve got to say that after tasting the TRS at Taupo in March, we couldn’t have made a better move.”
“I’m one of the old men of the series this year, it pains me to say! While my recent experience behind the wheel has been limited, I pride myself on having a good race brain and a calm demeanour. These young guys are all blisteringly quick, but consistency is an area I hope to excel in over the course of the championship.”
“I think my father Richard and Grandfather Rob are more excited about the season than even I am! They’re single seater purists at heart, and can’t wait for the iconic NZ motorsport road trip to Invercargill in January.”
“The NZ Motorsport Trust have provided me with the car for the season. On that note, I’m in the #22 chassis driven by Ben Harford a few seasons ago, and then by Earl at the 2011 NZGP. I’ll be running with ETEC Motorsport under Andy Neale, with Malaysian international Melvin Moh as my team mate. Melvin was one of the Petronas recruits Dad and I spent time coaching in 2009.
