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Competition Car Insurance Radical UK Cup: Castle Combe, Race 1

17th July 2010

The experience of 2009 Castle Combe GT Champion Simon Tilling paid dividends this afternoon, taking the first Competition Car Insurance Radical UK Cup win of the weekend in his SR3 RS. After an early safety car period, Tilling was able to capitalise on his road position and take the lead from the 360 Racing pairing of Ross Kaiser and Terrence Woodward.

Kaiser had a strong start, with teammate Derek Johnston following him for the first ten laps, Shaun Balfe also in tow. Rob Wheldon had qualified third but was outgunned at the start by the SR8s. However, he was able to resist Manhal Allos until the safety car was deployed on lap 11, for three laps.

As the safety car came in, the pit open board went out, with most drivers electing to pit immediately. With pits stops ranging from 40 to 70 seconds depending on the car model and driver pairing’s experience, Tilling emerged in the lead, albeit only 14 seconds ahead of David Thorburn, replacing Wheldon in the works SR3 seat.

On lap 23, Bromiley (having taken over from Balfe) passed Thorburn for second. Manhal Allos was also catching, but was forced to pit to reattach bodywork. Tilling, despite being some 100bhp down on the chasing pack, used his extensive experience of the Wiltshire circuit to maintain his lead all the way to the flag, nearly 14 seconds ahead of Bromiley. After a lengthy pitstop, Terrence Woodward had also fought through the pack for the final podium position.

With Tilling not eligible for Supersports point, it was Thorburn and Wheldon that took the victory in this class, despite a late charge by Ross Allen/Chris Dymond. Peter Osborn, partnered by Alex Kapadia, rounded out the top six.

Tomorrow’s Race 2 takes place at 10:30am; more news to follow.