On Tuesday 19 November 2002 Rafael took part in the Semi-finals of the Johnny Herbert search for a star at Rockingham motor speedway on a very foggy day. He arrived confident in his abilities but was cautious not to get over confidant.

Due to the poor track visibility, the day started on skid cars and lasted all morning. Rafael was assessed in two skid cars. One which simulated oversteer and another understeer. The oversteer car was as challenging but Rafael posted a good time around the cone delimited track. The understeer car was as chalenging but Rafael did well again and posted a good time, trying to be as smooth as possible.

Then it was off to the Saloon car assessment; probably the most important part of the selection process. Here, Rafael excelled in the Seat Leon. He attained another step in his motor racing competences. Fast, smooth, accurate and consistent lap after lap. The instructor was very pleased with this performance and didn't really have any more advice to give other than to stay cool headed out of the car. Rafael's goal was achieved. He blew away the opposition!

Then, the drivers were driven to the single seater activity. Knowing that he had done well in the Leons, Rafael took it easy in the single seaters, keeping to the racing line, carrying good speed and smoothness on approach, through and out of corners.

At the end of the day, about 10 drivers were invited to come back for the final on the 29th November. Ex-Formula 1 star Johnny Herbert will be there to lead the panel of judges. Rafael is very close to unleashing his dream of breaking into the world of motorsport. He will do his upper utmost to succeed so close to his goal.