24-1-81 LADY WIGRAM 5EE ADVERTIS SURE 0'0RS David Oxton clips the corner in his "ground effects" Ralt TR4. Wigram 'a challenge' Three times New Zealand champion David Oxion says Wigram is the most challenging circuit used for the Formula Pacific Series. "I have always thought of this circuit as the real challenge because apart from the official practice day there is no opportunity practice as on otber circuits." he says. "There is no time for presetting cars, while at other circuits it is not uncommon for us to do 150 laps in preparation for a 20-lap race." Oxtor says that drivers had fought hard to retain the use of the circuit for the series because of its unique nature. The 34-year-old Aucklander is driving a "ground effects" Ralt. which is beig sponsored by Pye. He concedes that the improve the car's developments designed to ground effects" are stili largely untried on New Zealand circuits. But he is confident that they will produce positive results under the guidance of international racing mechanic Dick Bennetts. The New Zealand-born Bennetts is working with the Oxton team for the six series event, plus one meeiing in Australia on February 8. The Rait RT4 was previously raced by American driver Danny Sullivan in the final round of the Atlantic Series in Montreal. The car was completely rebuilt for the first round of the Pacific Series at Bay Park on December 28. Oxton expects his toughest competition to come from Steve Millen and Dave McMillan. as well as Australian John Smith, who is also in a Ralt. But he also rates expatriate Rob Wilson highly. following his impressive results in the British Formula Three series. Oxton says the system of two heats produces hard racing in the series: "They are sprint races. with everyone going as hard as they can to win each heat.