Nicholas Mee Racing consolidates position

Competing in rounds two and three of the Britcar Championship* held on Rockingham’s International Sports Car Circuit in Northants, Nicholas Mee Racing made the most of only its second race weekend by finishing strongly in both long distance races.

Having qualified in 22nd position, Karsten Le Blanc started Saturday’s 1.5hr race by gaining several places before handing over to team-mate Christiean Van Lanschot who also delivered a solid performance to bring NMR’s Vantage GT4 home in 18th place overall.

Starting positions for Sunday’s race were determined by results from the previous day. With roles reversed, Christiean took the rolling start and maintained a fast and consistent pace. Karsten took over at half race distance and immediately found his groove by lapping at just a fraction off his best qualifying time.

Unfortunately, the safety car came out during Sunday’s race, during which time it was deemed that Karsten had committed an offence by overtaking. The team was subsequently called in for a stop-and-go penalty which resulted in loosing one position. However, the team was still pleased with 15th overall and 5th in class.

Team Principal Nicholas Mee said, “We are delighted that we collected full Aston Martin Challenge points and remains in top position after three of the nine rounds, plus we have a 100% finishing record – an excellent achievement for a new team with drivers competing in their first season at this level.“

The Rockingham meeting also heralded the arrival of NMR’s second Vantage GT4. During Friday’s free practice this was given an initial shake-down and put through its paces by team driver Anthony Reid. This second Vantage will be competing in selected rounds during the remainder of the 2009 Britcar Championship.

Nicholas Mee Racing is now preparing for the next round of the championship to be held at the legendary Spa Francorchamps circuit in Belgium on Saturday 27th June.

* The Vantage GT4 Challenge takes place within the popular Britcar series and is open to all Aston Martin Vantage GT4s, including the Vantage N24. Eligible drivers compete in the regular Britcar GT Championship and score points towards both that series and the Vantage GT4 Challenge.

AMR Teams