Aussie Racing Cars regular Charlotte Poynting believes her recent Formula Three test day at Phillip Island has helped her significantly ahead of this weekend’s special W-Series qualifying session.

Poynting was one of four Australians selected for the series’ qualifying that will see more than 50 talented females from the around the world vying for the 18 available spots. 

After spending the past few months hitting the gym and the simulator, Poynting completed her final training session at Phillip Island on Monday, where she got her first taste of an open wheeler. 

Driving Tim Macrow’s Formula 3 car, the youngster enjoyed a successful test, boosting her knowledge of the car as well as her confidence ahead of the qualifying. 

“Before I tested, I was super nervous, with the fear of going into the unknown. I really had no idea what to expect at all with no experience in these sort of cars,” Poynting said.

"However, after the test day, I know what to expect now and I know what the cars are capable of thanks to Tim (Macrow), who was at the track helping me out and training me, which was awesome.

“The F3 testing was really good and I learned so much from there. I still probably didn’t reach the limit of the car but at least I know how to drive it and I am more comfortable now." 

Despite being the youngest of the four Australians taking part and having less experience than her International opponents, Poynting believes her unique Aussie Racing Cars experience can give her the edge.  

“We will be doing a little work with tin tops and car control in the qualifying procedure, so hopefully my experience in Aussie Racing Cars helps out in those areas,” Poynting explained. 

“It could help me over the European girls, because I know they only really do Open Wheel driving which could be an advantage for me.”

With the 21-year-old set to fly to Austria on Wednesday, she remains positive about the opportunity and what will be a memorable experience, no matter the result.

“I am just looking forward to getting over there and getting into it because It’s a huge opportunity and I want to do the best that I can,” Poynting added.

“It would be incredible to get over there and make the series, I believe it would be the kick start of my career because it’s pathway into Europe. 

“Obviously I am very hopeful but I won’t be too disappointed if I don’t get in due to the calibre of girls competing.

“They all have a lot more experience than I do and have been racing a lot longer than I have, I will be amazed if I make it through. 

“I’m so happy to have been considered. I was not even expecting it so I definitely want to have another crack in future.”