Bangkok--12 May--midas pr
James Runacres is a 21 year old British national based in Thailand. He has recently become the runner-up in his inaugural season in the Asian Formula Renault Series. James started his racing career in Go-Karting. His passion and natural ability allowed him to jump straight into the Asian Formula Renault Series from karting that he took up only five years ago. In this one-on-one interview with James, we go into some details about his life and what racing means to him.
Becoming the runner-up in your first season in the Asian Formula Renault series is an incredible achievement. To what do you owe your success?
I owe my success to a lot of different factors. One of the main contributors to my achievements has been my father, Paul Runacres. The hard reality of the racing industry is that it takes a lot of money and sponsorship to participate. My father has been able to support me both emotionally and financially. For that, I will be eternally grateful. The Asia Racing Team (ART) has also been a big help in my career. They've helped me sharpen my driving skills by regularly allowing me to test their car.
Ultimately though, I can owe my success thus far to the pure passion I have for racing. It's hard to describe - but the feeling I get when I'm driving, and especially when I do well, is like nothing else. The first time I got on the podium after placing third, I was so filled with emotion in front of all the cameras and fans. This feeling pushes me to do my best both on and off the track.
How does it feel to be one of the few European drivers in the Asian Formula Renault series?
I think being a European makes me stand out amongst my competitors. In general, I find Asian drivers can be a bit reserved - they hold back. Europeans are known to have more outgoing, daring personalities which encourages us to be potentially aggressive drivers.
You have an enormous, enthusiastic Asian fan base. How do they compare to your British fans?
My Asian fan base is incredible. Truly. They are the most excited and enthusiastic I've ever had. I've never been surrounded by such supportive and loving people who believe in what I do. They really want me to succeed and to keep giving it my all. I really appreciate them for that.
The ability to sponsor you in this upcoming season is a fantastic opportunity for brands to promote their products and services to the racing fans and the general viewers and spectators. In your opinion,
which brands or companies would best align with you?
For a brand or business to sponsor me means they believe in my ability and passion to do well in the upcoming races. It's a compliment to me and my team. Ultimately though, I would appreciate sponsorship from companies who are high achieving and only believe in being the best at what they do.
What would you consider to be your best race or the best moment in your career to date?
There are a couple of great moments I can remember off the top of my head. The 'best moment' of my career was probably my first experience racing in the Asian Formula Renault where I achieved the fastest lap. No, I didn't win that race (he laughs) but it was such a rush to think Wow, I can totally do this! As for the 'best race' in my career, it would have to be the Malaysian leg of the Asian Formula Renault series where I came in 2nd position.
What other drivers give you inspiration and motivation?
My peers motivate me. My friends and I like to compete and challenge one another. We are always pushing each other to be better - to go faster and further. It's been that way all throughout my life, as far back as I can remember. I can even recall this going on when I started racing Go-Karts and even after I went straight into the Renault series. I get inspiration from drivers like Danny Ricciardo and Max Chilton. I also used to watch Formula One ever since I was a child.
Lastly, what do you think the outcome of this season will be?
So far, the testing has been positive so I have an optimistic outlook on the season. I feel confident though because I've improved since last year. I guess we'll just have to wait and see! Wish me luck.