The Milltek Civic Cup returns to action in Hampshire this weekend for the second round of the year from Thruxton. One of the UK’s top single-make Touring Car series, the Civic Cup returns to the BRSCC schedule with another bumper grid.
Often described at the UK’s Fastest circuit, Thruxton offers a unique challenge for the drivers this season. There are only two true braking spots on the 2.3 mile former-RAF base ensuring top speed and momentum will be key setup choices ahead of qualifying.
It is tight at the top of the table with race one and race two winner Bruce Winfield and Morgan Bailey tied on 39 points. Winfield was the star of qualifying at Oulton Park, the only driver below the 2min 9sec barrier, and at a venue where speed is key, will be a favourite to continue his momentum. Winfield though would go on to prove his overtaking prowess at Oulton Park, scything through the field in race two, to take second from fifteenth on the grid.
Morgan Bailey was another not prepared to slouch, jumping into second on the opening lap, dicing with Max Lewis, before taking victory in the second race. The Lincolnshire driver will be keen to continue his battle with Winfield as he aims to build on his maiden series win.
Similar weather conditions to Oulton are expected for Thruxton, once again challenging the abilities of the diverse grid.
They are far from the only championship contenders though, as Paul Taylor looks to build upon the 2nd place he achieved in the season opener. The only driver to cross the line within 10 seconds of Winfield, the Black and Blue #195 is aiming to leave a bruise on Winfield’s lead. He was not the only driver recording silverware either, as Alistair Camp recorded an admirable third last time out.
Max Lewis had been on course for a second place finish at Oulton, if not for a 10 second penalty he received for being out of position on the start. The 30-year-old will be one-to-watch after proving himself last month.
Consistency is key in this shortened championship as every finish matters. Only two drivers finished both races inside the top five last round, with Winfield and new face Jamie Tonks. A fourth and fifth place at Oulton puts him just 5 points behind the title battle.
Thruxton will be an unknown quantity for many on the grid as the Civic Cup visits the Hampshire venue for the first time. Race winner David Buky will be hoping to use his experience to quickly bounce back to the sharp end, with Damian Harris also playing off his years’ experience.
Alternatively, a new venue, at the UK’s fastest racetrack could be a golden opportunity for the younger drivers to prove their quick adaptability. Bradley Lane impressed many with his fourth place finish in damp conditions, as the series youngest competitor George Alp-Williams will be looking to establish himself after his introduction.
While many will be a rookie to Thruxton, two drivers will have to quickly find their feet in the Civics as Ryan Bensley and Welsh driver Kevin O’Connor move into the EP3’s for the first time this year. Completing the grid will be Sam Barrett and Ross Darlington, who secured a double top ten at Oulton.
Qualifying begins at 11:10am on Sunday 23rd August 2020. Race one is at 14:25 and race two 17:05