RYAN HOOKER MAKES STRONG VdeV-UK CHAMPIONSHIP DEBUT
Ryan Hooker Finishes A Strong 5th In The First VdeV-UK Race of 2008.
Ryan Hooker (Upminster, Essex) and team-mate Sarah Reader made a strong start in the first race of the inaugural VdeV-UK Championship held at Donington Park on 13 April.
Driving the TFL Racing prepared Juno SSE-CN, Ryan and Sarah showed great pace in practice though a fault in a tyre batch meant this wasn't reflected in qualifying when they took 15th on the 21 car grid.
Ryan started the 3 Hour race but a gear selection problem as the grid formed was to lead to a penalty later on. Starting from 15th, Ryan was up to 8th within just one and a half laps when the penalty board was shown. Confusion had ensued as Ryan had retaken his grid slot after dropping behind on the formation lap as a gear selection problem saw him get away late. The penalty given was a 'drive through' meaning Ryan had to slow and drive through the pit lane on lap 3. Ryan left the pitlane in last place (21st) and ready for the challenge!
Driving for 1hr 20mins, the car ran perfectly and Ryan was soon clawing his way through the field and reached 6th when he handed over to Sarah Reader for the second half of the race. Sarah continued the great work and brought the car home in a fine 5th place for an excellent start to their 2008 season.
"It was a great start to the season and I really enjoyed the race" said Ryan afterwards. "The preparation of the car was fantastic so many thanks to TFL Racing. Sarah and I are looking forward to a very competitive series in an exciting car."
Ryan's next race will be at the Welsh circuit of Anglesey on 18 May.
Ryan Hooker (Upminster, Essex) and team-mate Sarah Reader made a strong start in the first race of the inaugural VdeV-UK Championship held at Donington Park on 13 April.