”Just a brilliant challenge’ is how MB Motorsport accelerated by Blue Square driver Jake Hill described the spectacular 2.33 mile Oulton Park circuit in Cheshire, as the Kwik Fit British Touring Car Championship returns to action after a five-week break, with Hill aiming to build on fifth in the points in his Motorbase Performance Ford Focus ST.
“We had an incredible start at Thruxton with three Podiums, and a couple of solid races at Snetterton. It was a mixed bag at Brands – really pleased with qualifying and race one, and race two was looking like a possible win, but a puncture put us out. I was really pleased with the battle through in race three from 27th to 13th – even though it seemed to go a bit un-noticed – and those 3 points scored could prove really important as the season unfolds.
“The two-day official test here a few weeks ago was the first proper testing we’ve done this year, and despite mixed conditions we got a lot done – especially pleasing was a race-run on the soft tyres which went really well. I was quickest in the wet, so it wouldn’t be too bad if we had some rain – sorry folks!
Hill took MB Motorsport’s first-ever Podium in the opening race at Oulton Park in 2020, having taken his first ‘win’ in 2019 on the road before receiving a penalty for contact with Matt Neal, and enjoyed much success at the circuit in Junior formulae previously.
“Oulton is one of my top-three circuits in the UK. It just has such an amazing flow – especially sections like the double-apex Druids, the downhill section at Cascades and of course Old Hall. It rewards a mixture of commitment and rhythm, and I’m confident we will be in good shape once again.
“If we can have a clean weekend with no issues, I could easily see another podium or maybe better, so I’m really looking forward to getting out there – especially with a full-house cheering us on again! There is no better track for atmosphere, so it will be fantastic to see everyone back again trackside.
Hill and team-mate Ollie Jackson will be on track for two, 40 minute practice sessions this Saturday 31st July – at 9.35am and 12.10pm, with the all-important 30 minute qualifying session shown live on itv.com/btcc at 3.10pm
All three races will be shown live on ITV4HD on Sunday 1st August – race one at 12.15pm, race two at 2.40pm and the final 15 lap race at 4.55pm.
“It’s a long drive from Kent but well-worth it – let’s hope we have something shiny to take home with us!