Heading to Brands Hatch after 3 previous rounds of mechanical performance problems we were looking for a big improvement, we arrived at Brands on the test day in the MX-5 full of confidence.
Qualifying didnt go to plan as we were provisionally 2nd until the dying laps where it started drying out, we ended up qualifying 12th for the races.
The race was treacherous conditions - almost like racing in a monsoon. I got a good start and started making positions and after a few laps found myself overtaking 2020 champion Joe Wiggin on the outside of Graham Hill Bend. I then found myself on the back of 3rd position and trying everything to get past I launch a surprise move up the inside of Druids forcing the experienced Mike Comber onto the wet line and through I went. Then a move on 2nd place Frazer Fenwick at Druids where there was contact as Frazer tries to block me, then just as we had finished battling the Safety Car came out meaning I had to give the position back. The safety car restart was poor due to low visibility and wipers not working but we managed to hold on to 3rd position from 12th making up a staggering 9 positions and finishing just 0.25 behind the race winner. We celebrated well as finishing on the podium in the hardest championship in the UK in my rookie season was beyond belief.
This was a experience I am forever grateful for as this was my dads last ever race that he watched with his unexpected passing in January of 2021.
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