Placed Second In Red Bull Race In Chiba

U.S. pilot Mike Goulian found himself back on the podium with a second place finish in the Red Bull Air Race in Chiba, Japan over the weekend.

“The strategy was for me to fly as cleanly as I could but never playing defense… to go into the Final 4 and avoid big penalties while flying fast.”
 
The incredibly technical track (possibly the MOST technical of the season) proved a challenge for the pilots. Track conditions quickly deteriorated as the Final 4 commenced, but Goulian flew the plan and posted a solid time of 56.695s. Next up was Martin Sonka, who received a 2 second penalty for a final time of 58.443s. Third to fly was Pete McLeod, posting a 58.639s time. Lastly flew the Aussie pilot Matt Hall, finishing with a time of 56.376s, a mere 0.319s ahead of Goulian.
 
“I tried to fly really aggressive but yet again not make any penalties... I got a little out of rhythm in the chicane there... I think that's what made the difference. “
 
With the final results of the race, Goulian and Hall are currently tired on 36 points each in the World Championship Standings, an incredible 17 points ahead of the following position.
 
Cinching second place in Chiba makes for an impressive three podiums in a row for the American pilot, proving yet again he is a force to be reckoned with. 2018 is the best season start the team has ever experienced.
 
Final 4 results:
1. Hall (AUS) - 56.376
2. Goulian (USA) - 56.695
3. Sonka (CZE) - 58.443
4. McLeod (CAN) - 58.639

Goulian remains in second place in the overall Championship series behind Australian Matt Hall.

(Image provided with Goulian Aerosports news release)

FMI: mikegoulian.com