James Blyth ~ Mini Challenge 2007

Brands Hatch Finale

It was a double top ten finish for James in the grand finale of the 2007 Mini Challenge.

Setting off in fine form James surprised even himself when he posted the fastest time in practice on a track which is always fun to drive.

Qualifying in 12th, James really pushed in Race One in a great battle to finish 9th in the sprint race despite lacking front end grip.  The second race of the weekend was the longer race and it was set to challenge all James' talents.  An ABS failure shortly into the race meant James raced for half an hour with the anti-brake system, something you definitely want at Brands Hatch!  Despite this he was still battling and lifted the car to 8th spot.

The chequered flag dropped on the Mini Challenge in what has been an exciting season which sees James finish as second highest novice in his debut year. Well done James!

Tune In!

Television Coverage

Date	Time	Programme	Channel
06th October	20.00	Festival Highlights	Sky Sports Xtra
06th October	03:30	Festival Highlights	Sky Sports 3
06th October	10:00	Festival Highlights	Sky Sports Xtra
06th October	14.30	Festival Highlights	Sky Sports Xtra
06th October	17.00	Festival Highlights	Sky Sports Xtra
06th October	22.00	Festival Highlights	Sky Sports Xtra
24 October	18:30	MINI Challenge	Motors TV
25th October	01:30	MINI Challenge	Motors TV
26th October	13:30	MINI Challenge	Motors TV
30th October	12:00	MINI Challenge	Motors TV

Brands Hatch Finale

It's hard to believe but this weekend is the Mini Challenge finale and it takes place at Brands Hatch.

Just short of 1.2miles in length, a lap of the Brands Hatch Indy circuit can be hair raising as the cars sweep into fast and undulating corners and famous bends such as Paddock Hill.

As the Indy circuit is being used and it is situated in a natural amphitheatre bowl, you can view much of the circuit from one position (click circuit diagram to enlarge).  As aforementioned Paddock Hill Bend at the end of the pit straight always throws up action and overtaking.  Clark Curve also has good spectator banks.

This Dunlop Great & British Festival meeting will also be a celebration of the hot hatch, where owners of any sporting hatch from any marque, old and new, are invited to the party on 7th October at Brands Hatch. For the first 100 "hot hatch" cars through the gates drivers and passengers will be given a rare opportunity of driving their car on the spectacular circuit in a special parade lap at lunchtime on Sunday.

In addition, during the lunch break on Sunday spectators will be given the chance to get closer to the action and stroll round the pit lane to see MINI Challenge cars and meet the drivers.

Tickets:

(on the gate)

Adults £12

accompanied children under 12 FREE

Mini Challenge Timetable
Saturday 6th October

10.50 Practice
15.35 Qualifying

Sunday 7th October

11.50 Race 1
13.45 Pitlane walkabout
16.40 Race 2

Brands Hatch Location

Brands Hatch is situated on the A20 near West Kingsdown. Just 3 miles from junction 3 (Swanley) of the M25, it is linked via the A20 to the M20 and M25/26 motorways.

Regular services to Swanley station operate from London Victoria.