For the first time in its three-season history, the Maximum Networks Volkswagen Racing Cup incorporating the Touring Car Trophy and TCR UK will visit the unique and challenging circuit of Anglesey, a venue defined by its cliff-top location and combination of flat-out straights and technically demanding corners.
Taking place on Sunday 8th August, the 10th and 11th encounters in this year’s 14-round calendar are likely to provide another dimension for competitors – and with changeable weather predicted, it’s a recipe that’s destined to favour the brave.
Topping the points table with five rounds remaining is three-time winner so far Lewis Kent. Driving his family-run Essex and Kent Motorsport Hyundai i30N TCR, his victories at Silverstone, Brands Hatch and Oulton Park underline an ability to adapt to changing environments, a factor that could serve the 2020 Champion well on Sunday.
Second in the drivers’ standings in his Maximum Motorsport-run Hyundai i30N TCR is Max Hart, the young Irishman showing he has the pace and skills to challenge for honours having scored a win and five further podium finishes this year. Gathering momentum as the season progresses is third-placed Dan Kirby, another competitor with one victory to his credit driving his Power Maxed Car Care Racing CUPRA TCR.
Next up and scoring two wins during this landmark season for the Goodyear Touring Car Trophy is Bradley Kent, Lewis’ young brother and Essex and Kent Motorsport Hyundai i30N teammate, who’s scored two wins this season and has regularly been in the mix at the front of the field. A close fifth in the standings and a proven race front-runner is Bruce Winfield who, if his luck holds out, is another poised to claim the top spot this weekend.
Equal sixth are two Power Maxed Car Care Racing CUPRA TCR entries: round eight winner Jac Constable and consistent performer Will Butler, who’s rally driving experience may stand him in good stead on a weekend when the weather forecast suggests variable levels of grip will be the order of the day.
Other drivers to watch will be Jack Depper, the former VW Cup specialist shining in the hot conditions when he drove the Maximum Motorsport Golf for the very first time at Oulton Park. 16 year-old Hugo Cook in his privately run Audi TCR has shown he’s getting to grips with the competition, whilst getting to grips with their cars are Danny Krywyj in the Motus One Hyundai, Andy Wilmot in his Maximum Motorsport CUPRA and Alex Kite in his Maximum Motorsport Astra TCR – all three drivers making a second outing in their respective machinery. In addition, Darelle Wilson is expected to return to the field driving his easily recognisable green DW Racing Astra TCR.
The Goodyear Touring Car Trophy action gets underway with Free Practice at 09.20, followed by 15-minutes of Qualifying at 11.20, followed by the first of the two races at 13.45 and the second at 16.25.
Live streaming coverage can be found on Facebook @GoodyearTouringCarTrophy and the championship’s You Tube channel – and If the past nine races are anything to go by, then the on-track action is a must-see for those who enjoy saloon car racing at its best!
Photo from Jakob Ebrey Photography.
