Inverness based driver Dave Newsham will return to race at Knockhill this weekend in the British Touring Car Championship. Last year at his home circuit he achieved a memorable victory in the third BTCC race of the day and he is hoping to emulate that success this weekend.
Last year was only Dave’s second year in the BTCC but he managed to achieve two race victories, finished ninth in the championship and won The Fans Favourite Award. Dave has been plagued by bad luck this year, right up until the last race at Snetterton earlier this month. “We had clutch slip which sent us to the rear of race one, which put us in traffic for the next two races. Then we drew pole for race three, however we had a thumb brake failure on the way to the grid, meaning I effectively lost my launch control, so bogged the start.”
He said, “It’s been a trying season so far. It took a little time to dial and develop the Speedworks Toyota to my liking. The breakthrough for me was a test before at Penbrey just before Round Four at Oulton Park. We found some pace in the car, and I’m enjoying driving it. We now have a very good car, what is lacking is a bit of good fortune. We haven’t really been able to show the pace we have.”
Dave is looking forward to returning to his home circuit this weekend.
He said, “Knockhill was the venue of my ARDS test in 2004, and my first ever car race soon after. It was also the venue I sealed my first major Championship, the ELF Renault Clio Cup in 2010. So I have a lot of fond memories of Knockhill. We managed to win a race last year, let’s hope we can repeat that again. However, I would be happy if we can just have a weekend without any problems, and results that our pace suggests.”
Discounted tickets can be purchased in advance or at the gate on each event day. Gates open 8am on Saturday and 7am on Sunday 25th.
