Committed to the French Ford Open Formula Series championship, the Cantounat family marked the opening meeting, the first weekend in April, on the Val-de-Vienne circuit. The Jurançonnais Jean-Jacques, the father, and Sébastien, the son, trussed the podiums by ranking 1 respectivelyis et 2e of each of the two races in the Kent Heritage category (cars before 1981).
“It is an ideal season opening,” admits Jean-Jacques Cantounat. We did not think of doing such good performances. Now, we will have to stay at the top of the table. This new championship brings together on five meetings in 2025 a set of 35 cars in four categories (Zetec 140 CV, Kent, Kentitage and Formula Renault 1 721).
The first meeting took place in Vienne, the others will take place in Albi (May 2 to 4), Charade (May 30 at 1is June), on the Ring of Rhine (September 12 to 14) and in Nogaro (October 17 to 19). “With Sébastien, we wanted to embark on this new adventure,” continues Jean-Jacques. The budget is reasonable, the friendly atmosphere, exchanges and mutual aid between competitors are nice. In addition, the limitation of the power of cars to 140 horsepower allows more serene races. »»
In search of partners
For the moment, due to a tightened budget, the Cantounat family – in search of partners – will only participate in three of the five meetings. A choice that could prevent him from targeting the coveted title after his excellent start to the season. “We will do everything to continue our momentum,” he adds. Despite a small mechanical glitch on Sébastien’s gearbox, which we have resolved, and concerns of ignition on my car after arrival, on which we work, optimism is essential. »»
Morale is in good fixed within the team in which Marcel Olivares, Yvon Chazal and Geneviève Cantounat bring their stone to the building. Only shadow on the board, which the Grand Prix de Pau does not appear in any calendar, because nothing replaces the happiness of running at home, in front of his own.
