The Alfa Romeo Championship returns to Oulton Park for the first time in two years to contest the penultimate meeting of a truncated season that continues to be impacted by the ongoing restrictions.
Instead of using the familiar International Circuit, the 750 Motor Club event is using the 2.26 mile Island Circuit which means that for many, if not all of the drivers, this will be a first.
Leading the championship after 6 races with 110 points is Power Trophy regular Dave Messenger in the Darnells Engineering 156 GTA from Twin Spark cup class leader Andrew Bourke on 105 points in his Bianco Motorsport supported 2 litre 156. In third place with 103 points is George Osborne in his black 75 3.2 litre, just a single point ahead of second placed twin spark driver Simon Cresswell also in his 156. All four will be looking to consolidate or improve on their positions as they get to grips with a new circuit layout.
A firm favourite for overall honours this weekend is the sole modified class entry of 2015 champion Graham Seager driving his exciting black GTV, second and third placed drivers Scott Austin and Riccardo Losselli being unable to compete this weekend.
Third placed driver in the power trophy is reigning champion Tom Hill in the unique Revs Italia 3.2 GT. Although Tom is lying sixth overall with 4 races to go, he could benefit from the application of the dropped scores rule at the end of the season which would see him firmly in the frame for contesting the podium positions. A driver hoping for a change of fortune this weekend is Jamie Thwaites driving the immaculate Caged Steel Motorsport 155 3.2 litre. Jamie has been unable to contest all the rounds so far and has had problems in the other races but he is sure to be a candidate for class honours if he has a good run. Andy Inman is once again competing in the Revs Italia 156 GTA and showing improving performances as he gets to grips with the power trophy class. Making his first appearance of the season is Matt Daly, not in his normal twin spark 145, but this time driving the David Faithful supported Mito, which will be great to see back on the track and should be an interesting addition to the regular class runners.
In the closely contested twin spark class, Andrew and Simon are once again joined by season regulars Richard and James Ford in their 156s, and Luke Powell and Steve O’Brien in their 147s. Richard is holding third place in class from Gethin Llewellyn who is expected to enter in his Horley Motor Company 156. Jon Billingsley is also hoping to join him on the grid in his newly acquired 156 provided that necessary engine works are completed in time. James and Steve will be looking to improve on their fifth and sixth positions and all are capable of competing for a podium spot.
We look forward to some competitive but fair racing as the drivers get to grips with the Island circuit configuration at what is always a popular venue with drivers and spectators.
Thanks once again to all our sponsors and to the Alfa Romeo Owners Club and the 750 Motor Club for their continuing and valued support.