Atlantics Star of Tomorrow (wk 2): Jonathan Summerton

In Week 2 of our Atlantic Star of Tomorrow series we introduce you to American hot shoe Jonathan Summerton. Currently contesting his rookie season in the Coopertires Atlantic Series with Newman Wachs Racing, Jonathan became a household name amongst open wheel fans world wide last month when he captured Team USA's first A1GP victory in Shanghai.

Who is Jonathan Summerton?

“He is one of America's top racing drivers that has won in many series. He is a very polite and cool guy. He is very mature and very easy to get along with. A great overall personality.”

What ladder did you climb to Atlantics?

“It’s been a rough journey. In 2006 I did the Formula3 Euro series and that was a steep learning curve—a very competitive series. And then in 2007, a budget issue came into play, and I didn’t do too much for 2007. It was a hard season, but this year we’re racing in Atlantics. I just came back from Shanghai, where we won (A1GP) and it’s been a good season there. A little rough in the beginning, but now it seems to be working out quite well."

What would you say is your greatest achievement so far?

"Probably the win in Shanghai last week."

What is your goal in motorsports?

“In the long term, it's to make it to Formula 1 hopefully. In the short term, to hopefully win this championship."

Who do you see as example for your career?

“Michael Schumacher. He’s done a lot for the motor sport industry, and he’s probably one of the greatest who’s ever lived, really. I think he's probably quite a few people’s model.”

How would you define your driving style?

“Relaxed. I’m not too aggressive, but I’m very smooth and relaxed.”

How are you different than other drivers?

“Other people have said personality or my professionalism. I don’t know what I’d say. For me, every driver is a competitor, and they’re all very good. Out on the race track is where most of the job is done."

What do you do when you’re not racing?

“I try and train, especially A1GP is quite a physical car and for a 70 minute race, you’ve got to train quite hard. Other than that, searching for sponsors constantly and trying to focus on racing. I hang out with friends sometimes during the week, but too much really. It’s a lot of work to try and find sponsors.”

If you would fit your life in one theme song, which one would it be?

(Pause) "I don’t know. Maybe “Herbie” soundtrack?"

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