RACING EXPOSURE :: Club level motorsport e-magazine

Pic: Marc Waller

1) Could you introduce yourself please?

My name is Zoë Wenham, I am currently the youngest female racing driver in the country and I’m from Tewkesbury.

2) How long have you been involved with racing?

I started karting at the age of 9 and raced at a few clubs not too far from where I lived, then when I moved up into Mini-Max where we travelled a little bit further but continued to just do club race meetings and I had some good results but we couldn’t afford to do national level karting and so I moved into Saxmax at 14 years old and then the Volkswagen Cup at 16 where I am currently racing.

3) What vehicle do you currently race?

For 2011 we are running in a Mark V Golf GTi with Slidesports Race Engineering in the Volkswagen Cup. I tested in this car in 2010 and I loved it from the start so I hope that it can help me on my way to some good results this year.

Pic: Marc Waller

4) What was your favourite race, and why?

My favourite race has to be Oulton Park in 2009 when I qualified 3rd and was challenging with the top 2 competitors in the championship for the lead, that’s definitely my highlight so far.

5) And likewise, what race was the worst?

The most disappointing race for me has to be one of the few of the first rounds in the 2010 Volkswagen Cup championship. I travelled to Zandvoort (Holland) to race and ended up having a DNF and a DNS due to a turbo failure, or possibly when I went to Rockingham in June and I had a DNF because of over heating troubles and I was generally miles off the pace because of brake issues.

6) Which are your favourite (and worst) circuits or venues?

I love Zandvoort because of the undulations in the track and also Oulton Park but I don’t really like Rockingham.

7) What are your plans for 2011?

For 2011 I will be in the Volkswagen Cup again but in a Golf ran by Slidesports. I have continued support from last year’s sponsor Supagard and so hopefully this will be a year to remember.

Pic: Jakob Ebrey

8 ) What other form of motorsport would you like to try, given the opportunity?

I haven’t really thought about it, the saloon car route I think is the one for me but given the opportunity I definitely wouldn’t turn down a single seater chance things are always worth a try. Bikes are too exposed for me but I’d love to go to a live meeting to watch!

9) What is the best piece of motorsport advice you have been given (and did you heed it?)

The best piece of advice given to me was probably by my team manager quite recently, he just told me to keep my head down, continue to be focused and wait for everyone’s reaction when we get the results we are working for. So I guess we will see what reaction this gets me in April.

10) I’m told there is life outside motor racing. What is your favourite non-motorsport hobby?

I love being active and so with school I play in the Hockey and Netball teams, I go swimming every week with family and I train at the gym most days depending on school match commitments so just any type of sport really.

11) What one thing would you do to improve F1?

Find a good woman driver!

(And bring back the re-fuelling as it used to make it much more exciting)

12) Who are your motorsport heroes?

My heroes have to be Jason Plato as he is just an awesome driver to watch, Lewis Hamilton for his success in whatever he does and the fact he was phenomenal in his first year of F1 and Danica Patrick because she has really brought women into the picture and has been very successful too – I’d love to be as good as her in a few years time!

www.zoewenham.com

1) Could you introduce yourself please?

Hi I’m Vaughan Fletcher from Chesterfield in Derbyshire and I run my own business as a joiner and building contractor.

2) How long have you been involved with racing?

2010 was my second season racing competitively, however I have been involved in all kinds of motorsport including road rallies and track days for over 30 years.

3) What vehicle do you currently race?

I race a 1997 Subaru Impreza RA in the Nippon Challenge and the AAA Saloon Cup

4) What was your favourite race, and why?

It’s a close run thing for my favourite race, however both contenders took place at the Castle Combe circuit. In the Nippon Challenge I’d qualified in pole ahead of a more powerful Subaru, who I would end up chasing for the entire first race to finish 2^nd overall but 1^st in class. During the second race it was tooth and nail all the way, finally coming out on top to take outright victory. During the AAA Saloon Cups final event at Combe, we were head to head with a top spec Nissan Skyline, and despite a 300bhp deficit, we still came home 2^nd overall and first in class in both races. It was well fought, and testament that a well set up car can match the big horsepower racers.

5) And likewise, what race was the worst?

Snetterton: 2009. First event in the Nippon Challenge, and the car had a catastrophic retirement only a few laps in. It was such a devastating result given that everyone had worked hard to get the car there.

6) Which are your favourite (and worst) circuits or venues?

Favourite circuit: Cadwell Park for its challenges and beautiful location

Worst circuit: Pembrey.

7) What are your plans for 2011?

Everything is still in the planning stage at the moment. There are several series that we are looking at, both championships and non. The car will be developed further during the closed season, and a few odd jobs completed.

What other form of motorsport would you like to try, given the opportunity?

If I ever got rid of the Subaru, I’d either build another one, or look at something associated with Catherhams.

9) What is the best piece of motorsport advice you have been given (and did you heed it?)

If in doubt, flat out!

10) I’m told there is life outside motor racing. What is your favourite non-motorsport hobby?

Cricket. I used to play at a high level and was as serious about winning playing cricket, as I am now about winning when racing.

11) What one thing would you do to improve F1?

Drivers to change their own wheels! Seriously though, it has come a long way in the last couple of years, and it will be interesting to see how the 2011 season fairs with the new changes.

12) Who are your motorsport heroes?

Jason Plato. A truly great driver, and deservedly the 2010 BTCC Champion

1) Could you introduce yourself please?

My name is James Gornall, I am the championship coordinator for the FIA Formula Two Championship.

2) How long have you been involved with racing?

I began racing karts when I was 9 year old and cars in 2003, making it a grand total of 17 years now.

I was the British GT Champion driving a Dodge Viper in 2008, as well as the BARC Formula Renault Champion in 2003. I also won national championships in my karting career.

3) What vehicle do you currently race?

The last car I raced was an Aston Martin DBRS9 GT3

4) What was your favourite race, and why?

I don’t really have a stand out favourite. As much fun as it is to win easily I do like to drive through the pack after a problem and then take the win, I have had a few of these.

5) And likewise, what race was the worst?

It was nearly my best race! After an engine failure in qualifying I started last at Silverstone in British GT 2008. I moved to 6th after 3 corners having passed over 15 cars. Unfortunately the car had a problem with a sticking throttle, thus overheating my brakes. When you have over 600bhp pushing you on it can be rather difficult. Whilst in 2nd I ran into the back of the leader causing various problems but ultimately a retirement. I think the low-high-low aspect of that race was the killer. I am convinced the other driver braked early anyway!!

6) Which are your favourite (and worst) circuits or venues?

In the UK Oulton Park and Croft are good fun to drive. Croft I think needs to be done in a single-seater though.

Outside of the UK Spa is an obvious choice, but Portimao in the Algarve is absolutely fantastic with its speed and undulation.

7) What are your plans for 2011?

I will be concentrating on making the FIA Formula Two Championship the success we all expect it to be, but would like to jump back into a race car, possibly GT, as soon as possible.

8 ) What other form of motorsport would you like to try, given the opportunity?

If it has an engine and can be pushed to the limit then I will try it. I see Le Mans prototypes as an excellent form of racing for those that cannot make it to F1 so naturally I would like to try these incredible machines. I haven’t raced in touring cars yet either so would like to give that a go.

9) What is the best piece of motorsport advice you have been given (and did you heed it?)

To treat motorsport as a business. A lot of drivers think they are so good that the world should pay for their racing. Work out what the world wants from you and you might just be able to find the money yourself.

Also… if in doubt, go flat out!!

10) I’m told there is life outside motor racing. What is your favourite non-motorsport hobby?

I would say a combination of skiing and water sport – as you can see more activities where you can find your limits!

11) What one thing would you do to improve F1?

I would like to see more innovation. Recently we have seen the double diffuser and F-duct, but other than that the rules have caused the formula to be a little stagnant. Regular changes to the regulations should help this. Also they really need to move away from such powerful aerodynamics to help overtaking. This will obviously slow the cars down unless the teams can innovate, I’m sure Adrian Newey can work something out!

12) Who are your motorsport heroes?

Michael Schumacher is the ultimate driver, the complete package. He might not be winning now but given time I am certain he could have a huge impact on his current team, who despite recent inspiration have historically underperformed. We have seen far more mistakes this year in F1 by the top bunch than Schumacher made during all the years he dominated.

1) Could you introduce yourself please?

My name is Kat Impey, young racing driver and driving instructor.

2) How long have you been involved with racing?

My parents tell me that one of my first words was Lamborghini, so that was probably the first sign I was going to be a racing/car nut!

As you can see below, I was always eager to get behind the wheel! I was concentrating so hard to find that imaginary perfect apex (something I’m still trying to do!!).

At 13 years old, after many years of nagging to go karting, I finally got my way! My dad, who has always been an enthusiast of the sport, introduced me to indoor karting. From then on I was completely hooked, so we built my first kart from a box of bits and in 2002 I started to compete in karting events. 2004 we bought our first race car, a 600cc Jedi and I’ve been competing since (Unfortunately lack of funds, didn’t always allow full seasons).

3) What vehicle do you currently race?

A Dallara F302 Mugen-Honda (Fantastic!!)

4)What was your favourite race, and why?

I don’t have just one favourite race, I have many! However the one that stands out, I didn’t actually win. At Mallory Park, starting in last place on the grid (due to a drive shaft failure in qualifying!), to coming through the pack and finish only a few seconds behind the winner. Plus, the icing on the cake was gaining the lap record and the annual award for the driver with the biggest balls! Not sure if that was a compliment…or not?! He he.

5) And likewise, what race was the worst?

Having just built a brand new 1000cc Jedi in 2007, we entered the opening round, and in the second race of the weekend, I had a huge accident in Copse corner resulting in a write off. Which was to end my season!

6) Which are your favourite (and worst) circuits or venues?

Croft, Anglesey, Donington Park, Cadwell Park, Oulton Park…actually they’re all my favourites, so I’m going to have to choose a loser! My least favourable track is Brands Hatch Indy because for some reason we just don’t seem to get on!

7) What are your plans for 2011?

I will be competing in my F3 car, in the MSV Cup F3 Series (Well always, this is subject to raising enough funding through sponsorship etc!…. So come on!!)

Winning the 2009 Monoposto 'Biggest Balls' trophy!

8 ) What other form of motorsport would you like to try, given the opportunity?

I would love to see how far I can go within single seaters, and obviously it would be great to have a go in an F1 car, what ever the age! However I would also like to have a go in sports cars and ultimately Le Mans would be the cherry!

9) What is the best piece of motorsport advice you have been given (and did you heed it?)

“Be prepared for anything and everything to happen, but most of all enjoy!” Also in the words of the great Murray Walker.. “To finish first – first you must finish”.

10) I’m told there is life outside motor racing. What is your favourite non-motorsport hobby?

Now where can I begin!……….

11) What one thing would you do to improve F1?

As F1 is the pinnacle of the sport, we can’t afford to let it go backwards. So the way I see it is to open up the regulations more, to allow these fantastic engineers to develop and design great cars of the future (Without too many driver aids, of course!). I think also to allow the individual drivers to show their personalities/flare, to let the public see they’re real people with normal emotions, not just corporate frontage!

Mark Impey (Kat's dad)

My real hero is my dad! Without all of his hard work, faith and belief, I wouldn’t be competing in motorsport now!

And my other hero I nominate as Damon Hill. He was my inspiration to get involved in motorsport. I was nine years old when Damon became the first British driver to win the F1 world title, since Nigel Mansell and from then on I became hooked on F1. Plus he seems a sweetie!

1) Could you introduce yourself please?

Hi I`m Sarah Wherry from Grimsby North East Lincolnshire, a full time manager with a big passion for motorsport and anything with an engine!

2) How long have you been involved with racing?

I`ve been racing for six years now

3) What vehicle do you currently race?

I race a 125bhp 1600cc RWD Toyota MR2 MK1.

4) What was your favourite race, and why?

My favourite race and why? this must be Cadwell Park in 2010 I qualified 2nd and finished 3rd in both races, it was door too door action in sunshine with our tyres going off rapidly so we really had too work for it ! and its a fantastic circuit and very technical.

5) And likewise, what race was the worst?

worst race hmmmm….Snetterton again in 2010, I had Brake problems in qualifying and was only in 10th place, got a fantastic start arrived at sears and the rears snatched, spun me round right in front of the whole grid 30 cars! then I had a head on impact that spun me and on stopping got whacked again, needless to say bye bye car and very bad whiplash too boot! but we built another car and I continued the season.

6) Which are your favourite (and worst) circuits or venues?

favourite circuit: Cadwell park defiantly technical tight, twisty,hilly and a real drivers circuit.
worst circuit: doesn’t exist if I can race on it I like it its all about learning and racing!

7) What are your plans for 2011?

because I currently have six mk1`s road cars in the workshop and loads of spares I`m doing another year in the RED DRAGON RACE AND TRACK clubs mr2 mk1 series, but with a view too something else in 2012, I would like too try something else possibly a Mazda of we are thinking of a Celica GT4 in the Nippon Challenge also by RED DRAGON but it all depends on sponsorship .

8 ) What other form of motorsport would you like to try, given the opportunity?

my partner used too race a long circuit 250 National Kart, I did have a go before I decided to race an MR2, I loved the sensation of speed just a few inches off the circuit.

9) What is the best piece of motorsport advice you have been given (and did you heed it?)

advice….. slow down and you will go quicker sounds daft but so true:)

10) I’m told there is life outside motor racing. What is your favourite non-motorsport hobby?

hobbies: anything that pushes me physically and mentally, I love my gym I go too and when I`m not doing the real stuff I love my PS3!

11) What one thing would you do to improve F1?

F1 improvements? it needs to be the drivers skills that win, not who`s team performed best I know its a package but it seems to be more about the teams nowadays.

12) Who are your motorsport heroes?

Colin McRae, his driving commitment was 110% always, he was always true to himself and his talent.

Ayrton Senna,and unmatched talent, both of these men will always be a big inspiration to me.

1) Could you introduce yourself please?

My name is Chris Helliwell, I’m 22 and currently studying Mechanical Engineering at the University of Bath. As part of my course I spent a total of 18months working for Red Bull Racing designing anything from exhausts up to most recently, parts of front wings for the RB6. Government funded club racer (student loan that is, I’m not an MP so can’t claim it on expenses)!

2) How long have you been involved with racing?

As long as I can remember, dad has always had karts or cars in the garage since I was young. When I was 15 I started Kart racing in a local championship. Once I’d outgrown the class we stopped racing with our own kart and I did a few endurance kart races and races in the BUKC university championship once I’d gone to Bath to keep on my toes. We bought a formula ford in my first year at uni and proceeded to rebuild it and I started racing that in 2009 in the Monoposto Championship. Dad runs the car for me and puts in a massive effort to make sure it’s always in tip top condition, especially when I’m away at uni and can’t be there to help with all the logistics of a race weekend, without his help I wouldn’t be racing.

3) What vehicle do you currently race?

A 1997 Swift Formula Ford Zetec

4) What was your favourite race, and why?

Spa 2010 Race 2 with the Monoposto/Formule Zetec series, it was the first race where I felt really comfortable in the car after finally getting it setup nicely, my pace improved all weekend and in the final race I chased down a number of cars, had quite a few nice overtakes resulting in a 2nd in class, my best result to date. Definitely the best race weekend we’ve had on and off the track!

5) And likewise, what race was the worst?

Snetterton June 2010 with the monoposto series, it rained in the collecting area so we ended up with slicks in the wet, with the car handling terribly as a result of some big setup problems we were yet to discover. The car broke away on the pit straight at over 110mph and pitched me towards the barriers, luckily I span along the grass, destroying the marker boards in the process but avoiding the barriers themselves, very lucky! I continued and finished the race rather steadily, I had to finish in order to get my National A for Spa! Got the license but overall not a fun day.

6) Which are your favourite (and worst) circuits or venues?

Favourite so far is Spa, really like Croft and Brands Hatch too. Haven’t really got a worst as I love driving anywhere, least favourites would be Snetterton and Thruxton.

7) What are your plans for 2011?

All depends on the student loan! We’ll be back out in the mono series, we’ve really enjoyed being part of the club, had a lot of help and advice from members over the last couple of years.

8 ) What other form of motorsport would you like to try, given the opportunity?

Would like to have a go at a couple of hill climbs, looks quite fun and you don’t really need to change the car too much from circuit spec.

9) What is the best piece of motorsport advice you have been given (and did you heed it?)

Keep it on the black stuff! I try to heed that, after all to finish first, first you have to finish!

10) I’m told there is life outside motor racing. What is your favourite non-motorsport hobby?

Road cycling, still quite fast and its really nice in the summer on the country lanes for a bit of training.

11) What one thing would you do to improve F1?

Stop the FIA banning all the innovations that teams keep coming up with, the rules are restrictive enough as it is, a bit of innovation spices things up and makes other teams think on their feet to catch up.

12) Who are your motorsport heroes?

Jim Clark, Stirling Moss, Graham Hill etc, I’d loved to have seen them racing round places like the Nurburgring or the original Spa in the 50s/60s F1 cars, true bravery.

1) Could you introduce yourself please?

I’m Scott Guthrie, a 43 year old, Marketing Operations Director for Molson Coors. Born in Glasgow, living in Matlock, Derbyshire and working in Burton on Trent. Oh, and a part time racer!

2) How long have you been involved with racing?

I had a day at the old Aintree Racing Drivers School way back in the late 80’s (I spun a Crossle 32F on my first lap!). I started out racing in the Formula E Ford 1600 Championship, moving up to the National FF1600 Championship in 1991 before realising I wasn’t quick enough to take on the F1-bound whippets so moved to the Champion of Oulton FF1600.  Then followed a gap of 18 years whilst I worked in Asia, before getting back behind the wheel earlier this year

3) What vehicle do you currently race?

I share a drive in the Sports 2000 Pinto Championship in a US-built Carbir CS2, but my main drive is in the  Sports 2000 Duratec Championship in a Van Diemen RFS02.

4) What was your favourite race, and why?

Oulton Park in the early 90’s in my old Van Diemen RF80. It was my 6^th ever race, first wet one and I qualified 6^th. The heavens truly opened as we sat on the grid, creating standing water at just about every apex. Perhaps because I wasn’t hitting too many in those days, somehow I managed to finish second with fastest lap!

5) And likewise, what race was the worst?

The most frustrating was this year in the Sports 2000 Pinto race on the Silverstone GP circuit. I qualified 4^th in the wet (those apexes again!), but with no clutch, I had to start from the pit lane. I passed 12 cars in the first half lap before getting over –excited and spinning. No clutch, no restart! The safety car came out the same lap (not for me!) and would have given me a chance to get close to the leaders. But it was not to be.

6) Which are your favourite (and worst) circuits or venues?

I love Cadwell, you are just microseconds away from something expensive it you get it wrong. Oulton Park is a particular favourite too, I love the bravado of whether you are taking Island absolutely flat (I’m not!). Although I haven’t driven it, Mallory doesn’t get me that excited.

7) What are your plans for 2011?

Having dipped my toe back in the water in 2010, I’ll be competing in all the Duratec rounds of the Sports 2000 Championship (including  a very much anticipated trip to Spa)in the Van Diemen, as well as a few rounds in the Pinto Championship in the Carbir. In an unashamed plug, you can follow my progress at www.asgmotorsport.com

8 ) What other form of motorsport would you like to try, given the opportunity?

I’d like to have a go at Rallying. Even closer to the scenery than Cadwell, and sideways!

9) What is the best piece of motorsport advice you have been given (and did you heed it?)

The Craner Curves are flat in top. But not on your first lap (sadly I didn’t hear the last part).

10) I’m told there is life outside motor racing. What is your favourite non-motorsport hobby?

I got my bike licence last year so I have been exploring the great roads around me in the Peak District. Sadly though, there’s a quota of mid-life crises, so the bikes have gone to make way for the racing (though I am aiming to sneal one back in the garage for next year)

11) What one thing would you do to improve F1?

Get rid of all the barge-boards & winglets that spoil the look of modern cars. Control front and rear wings to remove the down-force, and maybe have 2 shorter races over a weekend. The first few laps are always the most entertaining.

12) Who are your motorsport heroes?

Being a Scot, I’d have to say Jim Clark and Colin McRae, but if my fellow competitor and co-owner of the Carbir is reading, of course it’s you Pod!

1) Could you introduce yourself please?

I’m Karl Davidson from Northamptonshire. I race as team owner and driver. Although for us that’s a bit official and sounds exaggerated… I have used a team name since uploading on board videos and creating a basic evolving website to keep friends and family informed, whilst trying to give some credit to those who give up free time to help out. At this stage we do not run any other cars or drivers but who knows what might happen in the future.

2) How long have you been involved with racing?

I have only been driving since May 2010, Although I’ve been around various forms of motorsport for a little while. I have been involved with performance vehicles since I started working in Engineering.

3) What vehicle do you currently race?

Jedi MK6 2009 Chassis, with a R1 engine

4) What was your favourite race, and why?

Not many to choose from. After only doing 10 shake down laps at Mallory since building the car, we realised the car needed some handling issues addressing, and it had an intermittent electrical fault (no spark) this was only two weeks before my first race. I also only received the spare wheels for wet tyres the day before, and the trailer was only finished two days prior to that. Wet tyres were fitted whilst I signed on for the first time ever. The fast guys tested the day before but I was working….. So Rockingham my first race was in the rain (I will never forget it)

I was quite nervous and kept telling myself – James Hunt, and other drivers were sometimes quite ill before they got in the car, perhaps for different reasons? (sorry Tom) I was concerned because I did not get a chance to drive the car properly beforehand and did not test. We were slow at Mallory with front end set up issues… Yet as soon as I got driving the car now felt great and I was away – we actually went quite well considering…. So very memorable. Other wise….

Silverstone Monoposto October 17th 2010 – was our first dry race and this time in a much bigger class, the paddock atmosphere was good and we went a lot better than the day before, after putting the car back to standard settings. Hopefully we will keep improving each time we get in the car, which seems to be the trend at the moment.

5) And likewise, what race was the worst?

Silverstone Monoposto October 16th 2010 – after a good second test day at Mallory, following our first event at Rockingham. Testing our new tacho / shift lights were working and comparing lap time improvement. Returning home, I found some set up notes in an old folder that I received with the car. After testing, I decided to remove lots of rear main wing angle whilst adjusting set up (silly billy)… So for Silverstone on the 16th, we were running far less rear wing than ever before. Going out on new slicks on a damp track with such little rear down force was a bad idea. Every time the car feels bad it knocks my confidence. As a newbie, when I’m struggling I question my driving but…. once I get in the car with set up adjusted, and it feels right, I can push myself again. Lots to learn.

6) Which are your favourite (and worst) circuits or venues?

I do not have the experience to say. Out of the three we have driven.. I’d say Silverstone is my favourite so far, because I think it’s safer to push hard and find the limits of the car whilst learning. I expect I will change that answer in the next couple of years.

Other circuits I’ve been to are not so forgiving. Considering you’re in a car that can carry so much corner speed, and your still learning. I figure you’re going to travel some distance if it goes wrong at the end of the straight into a fast first corner.

7) What are your plans for 2011?

We are about to make a new business investment, so our racing is likely to be restricted in 2011.

We have also already sold our engine, so we were planning on putting a newer un-tuned engine in, or perhaps buying a different car.

Even though we are still learning, we still have lap times as a bench mark compare to. Not sure if this the way forward yet – we do need practice but it would be nice to be able to finish a bit nearer the podium. We aim to get the car re-built and go testing. If we can do some races in 2011 that would be great. We know what times this combination can achieve so that’s the end goal – Competitive lap times. We would love to see a podium finish in 2011. Our progress has been very positive so far, however we have to be realistic we need more time in the seat.

8 ) What other form of motorsport would you like to try, given the opportunity?

I’ve dabbled with a few ideas, some with painful consequences. I would like to do an F3 race just out of curiosity.. with more experience I’d love to drive an F1 car just once for the experience.

9) What is the best piece of motorsport advice you have been given (and did you heed it?)

I’ve had lots of little bits – my engine builder is very knowledgeable. I take all advice from experts if I can understand it. That said, we do not have much of a background in racing cars so we have to rely heavily on research and advice – luckily a background in engineering helps.

10) I’m told there is life outside motor racing. What is your favourite non-motorsport hobby?

Anything to avoid cold weather.

11) What one thing would you do to improve F1?

I’m not qualified to answer this? This will sound backwards…. Remove some of the driver aids, I know why they are there and yes the technology is amazing, and is eventually passed on to benefit general public however I am a fan of the earlier cars but still prefer the later styling of late 1980 / early 90′s cars….Would love to see the engineers go mad, cars with loads of horse power, with wings and tyres to match – I suspect it would not improve F1 in most people’s view, as it’s supposed to move with technology / safety but that’s just my personal preference.

12) Who are your motorsport heroes?

Tricky as all top competitors are obviously very good. So I would prefer not to name a car driver. My engine builder / local motorcycle racer James McBride really puts the effort in and deserves to get good results…. He still remains humble, same as Guy Martin. They are still friendly and will make time to genuinely help people even strangers.. For skill alone maybe Valentino Rossi. I’m possibly more of an extreme sports fan (grab the bull by the horns kind of thing) hence my answer to question 11.

1) Could you introduce yourself please?

I’m Steven Griffin.  Monoposto/F4/Future Classics racer.  Age 52. Job-doctor. Family wife and son.  Road car Mercedes CLK 55 AMG.

2) How long have you been involved with racing?

I have been involved in motorsport since I was a teenager-I used to be one of those lads that has a clip board in the collecting area.  I have also worked as a circuit doctor for lots of bike racing.  I only started car racing in 1998 when I became wealthy enough to give it a try.

3) What vehicle do you currently race?

I race a Van Diemen F Ireland in F4 trim.  I also have an Sierra Cosworth in RS 500 trim-although it isn’t a real one just a modified 3 door cossie.

4) What was your favourite race, and why?

My favourite race was the 2006 Nurburgring 24 hours.  We only had a shopping car (an Alfa Diesel) but we got up as high as 50th out of 250 entries.  Eventually a gearbox change meant we dropped down.  It was just great to race against my childhood heroes like Hans Stuck.  Perhaps not race against, rather more like racing alongside…

SG at Croft, 2010 - Pic: Norwich Photo

Worst race Mono race on The GP circuit at Silverstone.  I had a new (to me) car, a formula Renault.  Someone blew up and deposited oil at Bridge.  I hit the wall very hard.  It hurt and my car was wrecked at its first outing.  Not a good day.

6) Which are your favourite (and worst) circuits or venues?

Favourite venue-Spa by a million miles.  Least favourite Mallory. Crap paddock dangerous circuit.

7) What are your plans for 2011?

For 2011 I will do some mono, some F4 and some CSCC in the cossie.  Money is a bit tight this year so perhaps not as much as previous years, depends on my private practice I guess.

8 ) What other form of motorsport would you like to try, given the opportunity?

Drag racing looks a blast.

9) What is the best piece of motorsport advice you have been given (and did you heed it?)

Best advice.  Buy good safety gear.  I crash tested my Hans device and I can still move my arms and legs. ‘Sweet’ as my son would say.

10) I’m told there is life outside motor racing. What is your favourite non-motorsport hobby?

I sail.  I have a 38 foot ketch in the Med.  Flat out, 8 tonnes of plastic and lead at 7 knots, bloody fantastic.  I never knew going so slowly could be so much fun.

11) What one thing would you do to improve F1?

More power, smaller wings and tyres.

12) Who are your motorsport heroes?

Mario Andretti.  He could drive and win in anything.  Even in his sixties he was still giving it some when he hit the wall at Indy.

1) Could you introduce yourself please?

I’m Vix Cutler, 31 – lecturer in Bookkeeping and accounts at City College Norwich and in my spare time I assist in the preparation and sprinting of mine and my husband’s car in the Toyota Sprint Series, and Lotus Motor Club Autotest Championship.

2) How long have you been involved with racing?

I’ve loved motorsport and cars all my life and remember watching rallies when younger, and F1 and Touring cars on TV. My family have been petrolheads and I helped with working on cars from a young age – from Minis to Land Rovers.

3) What vehicle do you currently race?

I have a Mk1 Toyota MR2 which we converted with a Supercharged engine 2 years ago. We have owned 6 Mk1 MR2s between us, and at one point they were the only cars we owned. Our race car is called Humphrey and has a one off fluorescent orange colour scheme, you can’t miss him!

4) What was your favourite race, and why?

Out of my own races, I love Barkston Heath and as I’m improving all the time, the last sprint at Barkston was the best for me – I even got a trophy! Out of the races I’ve watched it had to be the British Grand Prix this year, simply because it was my first GP and the atmosphere was far different to anything I’ve experiences before.

5) And likewise, what race was the worst?

The very first sprint I did at Waterbeach, Cambs. The weather was horrific, I was terribly slow, although it did give me the bug!

6) Which are your favourite (and worst) circuits or venues?

Being a Norfolk lass, I do love Snetterton, both to drive and spectate. I also love driving at Teesside Autodrome, basically anywhere with a mad hill gets me going! I’d like to try Cadwell.

7) What are your plans for 2011?

Big engine overhaul for more power, bigger brakes, can’t really give much else away personally I want to hone my skills and get more brave on the track.

8 ) What other form of motorsport would you like to try, given the opportunity?

I’d love to do rallying, I quite like driving fast on terrain in general!

9) What is the best piece of motorsport advice you have been given (and did you heed it?)

From my husband – ‘Drive faster’ and I’m trying!

10) I’m told there is life outside motor racing. What is your favourite non-motorsport hobby?

I have been into photography for a few years – although that does fit in quite well with motorsport. Also a keen ‘aviation enthusiast’ – or plane spotter, some more girly hobbies are jewellery making and looking after my chinchillas!

11) What one thing would you do to improve F1?

Go to the good circuits, not just the places that pay the most money to Bernie.

12) Who are your motorsport heroes?

Subject to controversy, it’s Michael Schumacher – I just remember thinking he always won the races I watched, and I know he’s hated by a lot but it just makes it more interesting to me!

1) Could you introduce yourself please?

Nigel Davers

2) How long have you been involved with racing?

1 Season

3) What vehicle do you currently race?

Van Diemen Rf 89 1600cc

4) What was your favourite race, and why?

Thruxton 8^th May 2010, span on first lap in damp conditions dropping down the field, managed to climb to 3^rdoverall and set FL (2^nd Motor Race)

5) And likewise, what race was the worst?

Silverstone 16/17^th Oct 2010 bad weekend, slight altercation with another driver on Saturday – Sunday I had 2 spins.

6) Which are your favourite (and worst) circuits or venues?

Having only raced 1 season – I would say Croft . and least favourite Brands Indy.

7) What are your plans for 2011?

Try and retain the Monoposto 1600cc Championship.

8 ) What other form of motorsport would you like to try, given the opportunity?

I think it would have to be rally cross in a Metro 6R4

9) What is the best piece of motorsport advice you have been given (and did you heed it?)

Don’t overthink ‘it’ – Yes

10) I’m told there is life outside motor racing. What is your favourite non-motorsport hobby?

Is there? – Movies and  Red Wine

11) What one thing would you do to improve F1?

Make it rain all the time.

12) Who are your motorsport heroes?

James Hunt.

Pic: Jakob Ebrey

1) Could you introduce yourself please?

Alice Powell

2) How long have you been involved with racing?

Started karting when I was about 8 and a half years old, and I am now 17.

3) What vehicle do you currently race?

Formula Renault

4) What was your favourite race, and why?

Well, the last round of the 2010 Formula Renault BARC Championship at Thruxton. I won the race, as well as the championship!

5) And likewise, what race was the worst?

2010 Formula Renault UK Winter Series at Pembrey, I did not finish any of the races that day!!!!

Pic: Jakob Ebrey

6) Which are your favourite (and worst) circuits or venues?

One of my favourites has to be Donington Park. Such as fast flowing track with lots of ungulating corners. Another would be Oulton Park. My least favourite would have to be Croft.

7) What are your plans for 2011?

Depends on the pennies!! But if I do get the sponsors, then it will either be Formula Renault UK, or National Class Formula Three.

8 ) What other form of motorsport would you like to try, given the opportunity?

Touring cars sounds good to me!!!

9) What is the best piece of motorsport advice you have been given (and did you heed it?)?

Always keep your chin up and believe that you can succeed!!

10) I’m told there is life outside motor racing. What is your favourite non-motorsport hobby?

I would say Hockey. I love a good game of hockey!!!

11) What one thing would you do to improve F1?

Bring back fueling. I think the fuel stops made it quite exciting!

12) Who are your motorsport heroes?

Lewis Hamilton, Jason Plato.

1) Could you introduce yourself please?

Dan Quinn, 30 Years old, from Lancashire.

2) How long have you been involved with racing?

Only 3 Years.

3) What vehicle do you currently race?

Toyota Yaris 1000cc.   I sprint it in the Toyota Sprint Series.

4) What was your favourite race, and why?

For 2010, Sculthorpe Airfield, loose surface was most fun.

5) And likewise, what race was the worst?

Blyton Park, struggled with setup all day- still fun though!

6) Which are your favourite (and worst) circuits or venues?

Favourites are Barkston Heath, Rockingham. Worst are Teesside and Waterbeach Airfield.

7) What are your plans for 2011?

To run in class F street (1000cc mildly modified) of the Toyota Sprint Series.

8 ) What other form of motorsport would you like to try, given the opportunity?

I’d love to have a go at hillclimbing, or saloon car racing of any kind.

9) What is the best piece of motorsport advice you have been given (and did you heed it?)

Spend your money on tuition and tyres. Still haven’t done the tuition thing! They were correct about tyres.

10) I’m told there is life outside motor racing. What is your favourite non-motorsport hobby?

If working on my classic Celica counts then that, but I also play guitar and find myself at home in the Pub. I also help the running of Celica Club UK.

11) What one thing would you do to improve F1?

Re-introduce a “power not cornering” class such as formula 5000 to mix it up a bit. The safety police would never allow it though.

12) Who are your motorsport heroes?

Steve Soper, Roger Clark, Juha Kankunnen, Stirling Moss, Ayrton Senna, Russ Swift. And for sheer fun and modest-ness, Ken Block- he’s brought car control to the masses with a bang, which I think any petrol head is greatful for.

1) Could you introduce yourself please?
Hi, Arty Cameron. (Arthur) 24 years old from Worcester. Self funded club level racer. Partner to Kat Impey, Current Club F3 driver

2) How long have you been involved with racing?
Difficult question! Started racing motocross bikes in primary school, did some testing in karts at the same time but never raced.  Started testing my dads various formula fords aged 9 at Curborough sprint track (lots of cushions!). Whilst other hopeful racers were coming up through the ranks in karting, I was spending my teens drifting any rear wheel drive cars i could find around the fields (Dad was racing, money was tight!) . I was lucky enough to have my parents help me start out in racing by buying me a Jedi. Since my 17th birthday i have only done 3 seasons in circuit racing, having done two aged 17/18, then sat out for four years because of lack of money whilst building a career to pay for it. (came back out this year)

3) What vehicle do you currently race?
Mk4 Jedi fitted with a standard 2006 Yamaha R1 engine, racing in the Monoposto Championship.

4) What was your favourite race, and why?
ooo, not sure! I have had many great times .

Winning the Britcar meeting at Silverstone GP was great- 46 cars in one race.

Racing against my family- In 2005 three of us made the podium at Croft, It was a close race, but one i didnt win (Dave, me, my dad).  Also in 05 we had 5 of us (Dad, 3 sons and 1 daughter) in one race, all driving Jedi’s!

The last race of this year stands out, Silverstone – the closest race of my life! There was a new leader at every corner. I got the lead and the championship on the last corner of the last lap. Three cars went over the finish within 2 tenths of a second! Thanks to my great friend Chris Woodhouse, and Dax Ward for this race.

5) And likewise, what race was the worst?
Only the ones which i had mechanical failures, i love all races!

6) Which are your favourite (and worst) circuits or venues?
Cadwell, Oulton, SS GP, Donni

7) What are your plans for 2011?
Would love to be doing something higher profile, but depends on sponsorship, anyone?! I really hope to be able to afford to run my Jedi myself again next year, as its great fun to drive being so quick, and monoposto is such a friendly club.

8 ) What other form of motorsport would you like to try, given the opportunity?
Drifting…..rallying…….drag racing! they look fun.

9) What is the best piece of motorsport advice you have been given (and did you heed it?)
My Dad talks to me from 50 years of racing experience, and has owned and raced more cars than i can count, so i listen to his advice! I would say mainly- to understand how your car works, do everything yourself so you can trust in it, clean your car- you find things you would have overlooked, be kind to it, and just enjoy racing.

10) I’m told there is life outside motor racing. What is your favourite non-motorsport hobby?
I love trying to surf….its amazing, and free!

11) What one thing would you do to improve F1?
Just change all the cars back to 70′s or 80′s spec. I hate all this technology, as good as it is!

12) Who are your motorsport heroes?
I love watching Senna’s on board clips, i know everyone says the same, but he really was the best.  Not only that but he was a great personality, he had the total belief to win, and thats the way it should be.

1) Could you introduce yourself please?

My name is Mark Smith, I am 54 and work as a Quality Manager in the Airport Projects business. Married with two sons, both of whom are involved in preparing and running the race car.

2) How long have you been involved with racing?

In some form or another, since I was 18.

3) What vehicle do you currently race?

I have just sold my 1997 Tatuus Formula Renault, which I have been running in the 2000 Classic class of the Monoposto championship.

4) What was your favourite race, and why?

Silverstone 2009 – the race was wet, I managed to make up a lot of places and received the driver of the day award.

5) And likewise, what race was the worst?

Silverstone 2009 – I hate racing in the wet !

6) Which are your favourite (and worst) circuits or venues?

My favourite circuits are Mallory Park, mainly because it is my local circuit and I have a lot of good memories from there, and Anglesey, which is always a good weekend because of the location and the hospitality.

My least favourite circuit is Rockingham, which seems to be an unhappy mix of a tight infield circuit and a flat-out section with no run-off.

7) What are your plans for 2011?

Intention is to continue in the Monoposto championship with a Dallara chassis.

8 ) What other form of motorsport would you like to try, given the opportunity?

Sports car endurance racing.

9) What is the best piece of motorsport advice you have been given (and did you heed it?)

When I was karting, I was advised not to give up my day job, and yes, I did take notice !

10) I’m told there is life outside motor racing. What is your favourite non-motorsport hobby?

I play the occasional round of golf, badly.

11) What one thing would you do to improve F1?

Open up the tyre rules, eliminating the mandatory pit stops.

12) Who are your motorsport heroes?

Graham Hill and Jim Clark.

1) Could you introduce yourself please?

Stuart Downward

2) How long have you been involved with racing?

ARDS in 2002, first season in 2003 racing a Porsche 912 with HSCC Roadsports.

3) What vehicle do you currently race?

Lancia Fulvia 1.3S

4) What was your favourite race, and why?

Le Mans Story, 2009. This is a smaller Le Mans meeting that fits in the years between the Classic. A mostly French affair, it’s very eclectic. The racing is over the weekend on the Bugatti Circuit. I raced the Fulvia with Equipe GTS, the highlight being a dusk race on the Saturday night. There’s something very special about Le Mans at night…

5) And likewise, what race was the worst?

Cadwell Park in March a couple of years ago when it started to hail. Everything was sodden… and cold.

6) Which are your favourite (and worst) circuits or venues?

Best for me to race is Silverstone full GP circuit – something very evocative. I get to sit on Rocher at Monaco most years for the GP, spectacular viewing. I’ve promised myself a classic race there one year.

7) What are your plans for 2011?

Equipe GTS and HSCC… hopefully a couple of overseas races in the mix.

8 ) What other form of motorsport would you like to try, given the opportunity?

A long-distance rally – A LEJOG or Monte Carlo Classic or equivalent.

9) What is the best piece of motorsport advice you have been given (and did you heed it?)

You can’t afford it. Yes, I needed it!

10) I’m told there is life outside motor racing. What is your favourite non-motorsport hobby?

Travel.

11) What one thing would you do to improve F1?

Ban wings.

12) Who are your motorsport heroes?

Mixed… Probably Innes Ireland for the hedonism of it all.