AIM Autosport, long recognized for its success in developing young open-wheel drivers and engineers, announced today the addition of Brandon Thomas to their 2005 Star Formula Mazda Series North American Championship team. Brandon, along with previously announced drivers Mark Wilkins and James Hinchcliffe make up the three car assault on the 2005 series for AIM Autosport.
"AIM has competed in several different series in recent years due to instability within the sport however we appear to now be in the right place" said team principal Andrew Bordin. "We are honored to have so much interest in our Formula Mazda and Formula BMW USA teams in just our first year in the series. With this increase in interest comes the responsibility to select the proper drivers to develop- this is what we do best and is a key component of our success" Bordin also said.
"We've been talking to Brandon since the 2003 season but have been unable to put a deal together until now" said team manager Ian Willis. "The timing for Brandon to join our team was correct and he is a good fit for our program. His pace last year in the Formula Renault NA series was quite good considering the little experience he's had in open wheel cars" said Willis.
"Since I moved back from England I've been watching how Aim's success and admired how they produce results" said Brandon. "My expectations are to be in the top ten by the end of this season and fight for the championship in 2006.I look forward to the challenges of learning a new car this year which is more physically challenging combined with longer race distances. Having two competitive teammates is a huge advantage for me, I've already benefited from my new teammates after only two test days" said Brandon.
Willis is excited about the team's prospects in the Star Mazda Championship presented by Goodyear. Having what he refers to as a "Dream Team" of James Hinchcliffe, Mark Wilkins and now Brandon Thomas, all proven race winning contenders in AIM prepared cars.
"We not only have three fast drivers, we also have guys with an extremely positive team ethic which I know will create a great team dynamic."
Round Three of the Star Mazda Championship will be held at Mid-Ohio on May 19-21, where the team is currently in the middle of a two day test.
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