Heading into the weekend the team knew it would be a very difficult one, as we were down on power and the engine needed a refresh but we did not have time to do this. We had to run with what we had.
(Friday) FP1 – This was the first time out for an official test on the Indy circuit which was a little pointless. It was a 20minute session on a track we were only going to ride 80% of the following day so times in this session were irrelevant. Grant finished the session in 23rd position because he was feeling the lack of power on the tight and twisty Brands Hatch Indy circuit.
(Saturday Morning) Q1 – This was the first time out on the GP track at 11:05. Grant much prefered the GP track to the shorter Indy one. He got going early on trying to put in a good time to give him something to work from but he was suffering accelerating out of the turns and also with suspension, as the bike felt very loose. Grant finished the session in 21st place, slightly improving from the following day.
(Saturday Afternoon) Q2 – Grant had changed some suspension settings for the session and decided to go out on the same tyre to compare the settings used. The bike was still feeling out of shape but more stable in other areas. Grant managed to improve his time but dropped back down the timesheet. This left Grant feeling very disheartened as he felt he was trying really hard but was not getting anything back for his efforts. Grant would start the race in 23rd position on row 6 which he was not pleased about in any way, shape or form.
(Sunday) Race – Grant got off to a great start, picking a few place up off the start and jumping up into the top 20. Grant was trying to get through the pack and to catch up with the leading group. Unfortunately, he did not manage to do so. Grant dropped back and could not keep up with the 2nd group as the bike was not handling very well. Grant tried everything to hold on but as the race progressed he found himself slipping further back every lap. After the 12 lap race Grant crossed the line in a very disappointing and unheard of 21st position. Grant was disappointed with the result but he simply couldn’t find a solution to the problem. The team now had work to do ready for the next round at Cadwell Park.
Grant would like to thank all the people who came to support him throughout the weekend Ben Potter, Andy & Mark Standen, Steve Jeanes & friends, Higgs family, Roy, Jeremy & Ann, Alan Matthews, Russell Parkes, Simon & family. Grant would like to say a special thank-you to his Girlfriend Laura, Mechanic Sam, Sister and Dad for their ongoing support. Grant would like to once again thank all the loyal members of the 79 club.
Please feel free to make enquires, regarding how our sponsor’s services may be of assistance to you. We would be happy to have you on board the #79 club.
Any help is greatly appreciated, so if you are in the position to help in any way, then please contact the team and see how Grant Whitaker Racing can benefit you and your business.