Another year but not just any new year, competing in the Mini 7 Racing Club - 2015 is the 50th year; a remarkable achievement considering the ups and downs of the economy. One thing is for sure, it hasn't affected this club! Former race members have returned and many others prepare themselves for yet another year in this competitive series.
 
The off season was a time for reflecting on the many positives from the 2014 season but also to progress through an ever growing list of jobs. We were very lucky to renew our sponsorship with Mini Spares, who also announced their sponsorship of the Mini 7 Racing Club. We are extremely proud to have the opportunity to represent Mini Spares who have an incredible reputation worldwide, continuing to provide fantastic parts and service, aiding our reliability and performance.  Rob Smith (Classic & Custom Works) and Dick Hunter (former owner of BigMacRacing's se7en) did a great job in preparing the car prior to the season start.  Rob Selby helped greatly with tweaks to the engine but also with plenty of help and advice, along with Dave Yardy and Shaun Tarlton.
 
 
 
We headed to Mallory for a quick shakedown, where we found ourselves next door in the garages to the new Infiniti BTCC team.  Matthew Barrington was a great help all day and even had time for a quick photoshoot with the stunning Mallory lake backdrop.  Brake issues were faced but was thankful for finding out before the first round at Combe.  Mini Spares once again came up trumps with a record breaking delivery to allow Dick to fit in time for the Bank Holiday trip to Wiltshire for Rounds 1 & 2 at Castle Combe.
 
The sunshine descended onto the friendly bustling crowds at Castle Combe for Howard's Day, contrasting the icy start to the day. Two races in a single day always makes it a little hectic and not great for anyone suffering reliability or race issues.  Thankfully we knocked up good points from both races.
 
We managed to qualify 8th for race 1 and 11th for race 2, out of 26 cars. My gearing wasn't ideal as I would run out of steam along the straight although kept with the same setup throughout the day.
 
    Race 1 and 2 both had safety car periods due to incidents. Race 1 finished in the same place as I started - P8 but I did manage the 3rd best time across the field. I got caught out in race 1 on coolant that had been dropped but just managed to collect the car back up to keep away from the tyre wall at Tower. Unfortunately the video camera battery did not last so race 1 was not captured; race 2 can be seen below. Race 2 brought a better result, fastest on lap 2 and finishing in P5.  The races brought a great start to the season, car feels great and plenty more to come for what is already an exciting season.
 
Many thanks to everybody that has helped, including sponsors, friends and family. Great pics Matthew Barrington Race Photography.  Everything combines to bring the results so top work everyone!

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