The Shannons Nationals caught up with 2018 CAMS PAYCE Australian Formula 4 winner Jayden Ojeda, who sealed a well-earned title in his first attempt.
Shannons Nationals: Congratulations on winning the championship in your first attempt. Must have been a great feeling?
Jayden Ojeda: It was pretty surreal because it was my first Championship in the Formula category and to get that monkey off the back was a big relief. To also do it with the boys from AGI, whom I consider like big family, was pretty emotional. In fact, a few tears may have been shed on the day, as it was really special.
SN: Is there any particular moment that sticks out above the rest?
JO: There’s a lot of fantastic moments from the year but if I had to pick one on track moment, it would probably be getting my first win in Formula 4 at Phillip Island.
While dominating that race was one of the highlights of my year, the three clean sweeps, they were pretty good as well obviously, especially the one in Queensland with Supercars because it was a big stage.
But I do really think after Race 2 in New Zealand was the biggest highlight. Just getting the boss telling you that you’re the champ via radio – it doesn’t really get much better than that.
SN: In a championship-winning season, were there any lowlights you tried to forget?
JO: I would have to say the opening round in Symmons Plains. During the second race, I stopped on the second lap after I was sitting pretty in second place, which was really gut wrenching. To have a DNF so early in the year, especially something that’s completely out of anyone’s control was pretty disappointing.
My other DNF at Winton was also pretty disappointing. Again I was in second and one of the bolts on the rear suspension just snapped. It was a big blow considering we just got ourselves back into the championship lead. To have a DNF after putting in all this hard work, it was definitely a knock on the head.
SN: Who would you like to thank for the year?
JO: I would like to thank my sponsors; Engine Sensors, Sakura, Febi, OE Germany, SMS Diesel and Kaato. They obviously got me through this year and I can’t be any more grateful to them. Also my team AGI Sport – they are an amazing bunch of guys, and then obviously my family and everyone for their support.
SN: Any plans for next year?
JO: Have not confirmed anything yet, just cracking away, seeing what we can do with sponsors. In the end, it always comes down to them as everyone knows, so nothing’s confirmed but there’s a few things in the works.
