Canadian driver Megan Gilkes has been getting to grips with British F3 machinery in the past few weeks, taking part in a series of tests with the Hillspeed team as she gears up for the next round of selections for the new all-female W Series.

Gilkes has made it through to the final 28 contenders on the shortlist for the 18-car series, and has single-seater experience in Formula Vee-style machinery in the Americas.

However, with the drivers needing to prove their ability in W Series’ F3-level machine later this month, Gilkes has taken advantage of the unlimited testing opportunities that British F3 provides to get fully up to speed.

“The tests have been going really well and I’ve really enjoyed it learning about the car and Formula 3 in general,” she commented. “The British F3 car is amazing to drive and it’s been great preparation. Hillspeed have been really good in working with me on my driving, learning the data and helping me to get ready for my next step into F3.”

She has made strong progress with a testing programme that included a trip to Spain, the recent British F3 media day test at Donington and to Snetterton.

“I was pleased with my progress, I think I gained about six seconds over the course of the day at Donington, so I was really pleased with how it went. I really enjoyed the track and the car and it was a great day overall,” she commented.

With limited slicks and wings experience, Gilkes has found the British F3 testing invaluable as she gets ready for the next round of W Series selections.

“Preparations have already kicked in. It kicked in as soon as I found out that I’d made it through to the final rounds of selections and I’ve been trying to get as much seat time as I can with Hillspeed and the F3 car to get ready.

“I may have another test with the team but I’m not sure about the timing of things yet. Having driven an F3 car now I feel a lot more confident having done it than if I had not done it. I absolutely love the car and I could tell from the media day that it’s a great series and I’ve been really pleased with my experience. I’d love to be able to do the series in the future.”