Wisdom of Matthew Solomon: Hong Kong teenager forced to learn fast as he chases Formula One dream
After a testing campaign in Europe, 19-year-old Matthew Solomon returns 'home' to fulfil a boyhood ambition by competing in Macau Grand Prix
The learning curve has been steep and humbling in Europe, but Hong Kong teenage racer Matthew Solomon is far from discouraged as prepares to take on the big boys at this month's 62nd Macau Grand Prix.
Solomon learned the harsh realities of racing at the top as he struggled to hold his own in the European Championship, the toughest F3 event in the world, but he can look forward to racing on his "home" track in the blue riband race on November 22.
My sights are still fully focused on reaching the pinnacle of motor sport and, in a way, a tough season like this has made me more determined than ever
While many would be discouraged by the less than inspiring race results Solomon notched up in his rookie season in Europe, the 19-year-old is excited that he will finally be racing in the F3 race on the Guia track he has admired as a boy racer.
"This year in F3 has been an incredibly steep learning curve. I've had to adapt to so many new things being thrown at me race in, race out," said Solomon, who drives for Double R Racing and finished 28th overall out of 42 racers in the European Championship event.
"The list is endless, things such as managing traffic in qualifying in a 30-plus car field, getting the tyres up to temperature in very cold temperatures, learning about downforce and other things.
"While it can be a handful sometimes, I've undoubtedly come out the other end a better driver," said the Australia-born racer, whose best result was 13th in Pau, France, in May.
