The Junior 1000 Ecosse challenge had another spectacular event at the Granite Stages at Leuchars, the event took place at the St Andrews based venue on the 4th of May. This event had something special about it as it was some drivers’ first time out on the track while some had revenge in mind.
Fraser Anderson had a point to prove from last month’s event as a marshalling mistake had cost him time, which affected the outcome as it was neck and neck at the time. This time there was zero dispute about the positioning as Fraser and Sinclair Young (Citroen C1) finished top by over 2 seconds ahead of Cameron Davidson/Ian McRae (Volkswagen Up). Davidson has had a stunning couple of races as he has gone from not having a fully functional car hours before the Condor race to having two podium finishes within the last two events. Davidson finished one position higher than last time out (2nd place) by finishing 3 seconds ahead of Jack Hall/Robin Nicolson (Toyota Yaris) who had a good race, improving every time he was out and putting everything he has on the track.
There was some personal satisfaction at Leuchars as Anderson came out top after the confusion last time out, Anderson was out for revenge. This motivation showed within his racing as he had a determined look on his face while driving and looked ready for anything. This showed after the first two stages when he reported a mechanical issue, but it was resolved and he kicked on from there. After the day had ended Anderson put a post-up on Facebook stating the situation he had throughout the day and admitting that his head “wasn’t in the right place”. Anderson did put this to one side and bossed the rest of the stages showing of his ability once more. The three podium finishers all put in a tremendous effort and made a good day for all, this is exciting to see the talent coming through the Junior 1000 and what each driver has to offer.
A special mention goes out to Daniel Hurst who is having zero luck at the moment as he has had a problem with his car on the last 3 events. At Ingliston he had a wheel fall off, at Condor he was taken for an extra lap and, finally at Leuchars he had to be taken into service after not completing the first two stages. Despite this latest unfortunate event, he managed to get out and complete the day and set a time, let’s hope a bit of luck falls his way for the next time out.
There were only 2 non finishers in the event, Letisha Conn/Ian Crosbie and Oliver Hunter/Michael Cruickshank. Both drivers sadly had to withdraw from the race, and both were disappointed that they couldn’t take part however now they are determined to be back out for the next event in Crail.
Round 4 of the championship will be another excellent day to look forward to at the summer stages, Crail in Fife on the 15th of June.
Taylor Murray, Media Reporter Mtom1@hotmail.com
Junior 1000 Ecosse Challenge Positions – Granite Stages@Leuchars
1, Fraser Anderson/Sinclair Young, Citroen C1, 52 mins 00 secs
2, Cameron Davidson/Ian McRae, Volkswagon Up, 52.42
3, Jack Hall/Robin Nicolson, Toyota Yaris, 55.21
4, Justin Gunning/Tom Middlemiss, Skoda Citigo, 56.56
5, Thomas Johnstone/Ian Shiells, Nissan Micra, 57.13
6, Aaron Webster/Neil Jeffrey, Nissan Micra, 57.59
7, Erica Winning/Ellya Gold, Nissan Micra, 60.52
8, Dan Hurst/Gordon Finnie, Peugeot 107, 83.50
Letisha Conn/Ian Crosbie, Peugeot 107, DNF
Oliver Hunter/Michael Cruickshank, Peugeot 107, DNF