James Grint is ready to bounce back from the disappointment of the Jim Clark and take his Greased Lightning backed Mitsubishi Lancer Evo9 in to the forests of the Rainworth Skoda Dukeries Rally.
The Kimpton based rally driver was forced to retire the distinctive Green Mitsubishi after the turbo expired halfway through the tarmac based Jim Clark Memorial Rally, losing second in class in his first time to the Borders event, notorious for tricky, fast and tight stages.
James completed three rallies in four weeks during May – this meant changing from Gravel spec to Tarmac twice which not only meant different wheels, brakes and suspension but a different mentality to tackle the various grip levels.
“The switch from gravel to tarmac and back is difficult. They both require completely different driving styles and getting your head around the grip levels available takes some getting used to.
“It was a great experience to do it – that’s what this year is all about, gaining experience on as many different rallies and surfaces as possible.”
James showed a great pace on the Jim Clark event running within the top 10 in the REIS MSA National Asphalt Championship plus holding on to 2nd in the ultra competitive N4 class for much of the event.
“It’s always a shame to retire. It was a new event for me and I was really looking forward to the Swinton stage, but may be next year.
“I’ll put all that behind me now and concentrate on the BTRDA Rally Series. I’m currently lying 3rd in the BTRDA Production Cup and only one point behind first and second place.
“It’s such a competitive championship and really the benchmark at the moment for aspiring drivers. I’ve got to concentrate on getting the results in. My sponsors Greased Lightning, Pirelli Tyres, Motul Oils and Performance Friction Brakes have put in so much it’ll be a good way to repay their commitment to me.”
You Can follow James’ progress on his Faceebook Page British Racing Grint and on his website www.brgmotorsports.com.