Gamer turned racer Matt Simmons heads to Silverstone confident of continuing his strong start to life in the professional class of the Blancpain Endurance Series.
The Nissan Playstation GT Academy winner made an impressive start to his second season in competitive motor racing, finishing 13th overall from a field of 50 cars in the hotly contested European GT3 series opener at Monza last month.
Simmons, former postal worker from Brisbane, has stepped up to the professional class this year for the factory Nissan operation alongside team-mates Matt Parry and Struan Moore.
This weekend he heads to Silverstone where the Nissan GT-R GT3 has proved strong in the past, providing Simmons his best result last season.
Boosted by a decent showing at Monza, the Queenslander says his team is well prepared for its home race of the five-round campaign.
“Silverstone was our best finish last year and, typically, the GT-R has always suited this track,” said Simmons.
“We feel we can continue the momentum that we gained from Monza and hopefully be racing at the pointy end again.
“It’s a home race for myself, my team-mates and our team so we will be working hard towards a strong result.
“This track is simply amazing, I’ve had a lot of great times there and I feel well prepared going into this weekend.
“The biggest difference with being in the Pro class is there is no where to hide.
“These guys are the best in the business and you have to get everything right, as a team, to get a great result.
“It’s an amazing challenge to be racing in this class and I already feel that after just one race weekend my development has stepped up a level.”
Simmons will contest a three-hour race on Sunday.
VIDEO: Matt Simmons previews the Silverstone 3 Hour