Chelsea Angelo believes this weekend’s W-Series Qualifier will be a mental game more than anything else as she looks to break into the historic series.

The Porsche Michelin GT3 Cup Australia regular has been working overtime during the off-season both physically and mentally ahead of qualifying, with extra visits to a sports physiologist a major part of her preparation.

With only 18 spots available to over 50 of the world’s most talented young female drivers for the new series, Angelo is aware of the impact her new found mental toughness could have while competing oversees. 

“Preparation is going really good. I felt like I have really stepped up not only my physical training but my mental game as well,” Angelo said. 

“I’ve been seeing my sports psychologist more often to really help me get mentally prepared because I feel like going over to Austria is going to be a massive mental game.

‘I just feel confident within myself now and I know if I am confident, then I am going to do well because I know I have prepped the best that I can and it gives me lots of confidence.”

With young drivers coming from all around the world, Angelo is one of four drivers who will be making the journey down under, with jetlag and flight time contributing factors to their physical and mental condition.

Due to the tough travelling conditions faced by all four girls heading over, Angelo is certain that for her to be successful, they are factors that she needs to get over.

“This will be the first time I am going overseas to try and potentially make something out of my driving,” Angelo explained.

“With major differences in jetlag, time and weather from here to Austria, It’s going to be very difficult, which is why I am training physically as much as I can, as well as building on mental skills. 

“My aim is to be as healthy as I can, have a good mental space and not over think what I have to do. Just have a blank mind. 

Despite Angelo focused on breaking into the top 18, the 22-year old is thrilled with being offered the opportunity to take part in the international qualifying. 

“I think absolutely fantastic opportunity,” Angelo added.  

“It’s a dream I never thought could turn into a reality, it’s definitely not the direction I would have naturally gone for, but at the moment I’m pretty open minded.

“I am ecstatic and so excited to get the experience this sort of event and work with professionals that David Coulthard. 

“I am really excited to get over there and give it my absolute all as well meet all the female and if I get in to the top 18, I will be over the moon.”

“I think absolutely fantastic opportunity,” Angelo added.  

“It’s a dream I never thought could turn into a reality, it’s definitely not the direction I would have naturally gone for, but at the moment I’m pretty open minded.

“I am ecstatic and so excited to get the experience this sort of event and work with professionals that David Coulthard. 

“I am really excited to get over there and give it my absolute all as well meet all the female and if I get in to the top 18, I will be over the moon.”