BLYTH SHINES AT SPA

Norwich’s James Blyth Takes A Stunning Pair of Podium Finishes as the Mini Challenge Visits Spa

James Blyth put in a stunning performance competing in the 6th and 7th rounds of the Mini Challenge when it went overseas to the famous and daunting Spa circuit in Belgium. The Norwich teenager, having his first visit to the circuit famous for amongst other events holding the Belgian Formula One Grand Prix, came away with an armful of Championship points after scoring an impressive two pole positions, two fastest race laps and two podium finishes taking 2nd and 3rd in the weekend’s double header event.

As James first took the track ,set in the Ardennes forest, its awesome reputation was not lost on him, especially the world famous corners such as Eau Rogue, and asked to describe the circuit James summed it up as ‘”a bit mad really”!!

In qualifying, which was red flagged twice, James was worried that getting a clear run would be nigh impossible and headed out with a determined ‘just go for it’ attitude which paid off as he secured two pole positions which in turn gained him extra championship points.

The first race was set to be dramatic with James slipping to 5th but battling back to 2nd and eager to reel in leader Oli Mortimer. James was soon within 2seconds of Mortimer, recognised as quite some feat given the former Scottish Champion’s powerful hold over the championship this year. And second place meant the chance to stand on the legendary Spa podium.

“You couldn’t help but think of all the motorsport greats who have stood there before you” said James. “It is a very special memory.”

James had the chance to relive the moment as he came a strong third in the second race of the weekend, possibly all the more impressive given car problems to contend with. Having led the race for the first 15 minutes, the engine mount broke causing the engine block to move and in turn make gear selection difficult seeing James have to fight the car which wanted to shoot straight ahead at corners! Even with these troubles James again set the fastest race lap and was back on the podium!

Bringing two sets of silverware home to Norwich, James summed the weekend up as “a great experience” and now sits 2nd in the S Class Championship with his next outing scheduled for 22nd July at the fast and sweeping Thruxton circuit, Hampshire.

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Comments

[Beki]

Congratulations James on a great result at a great circuit!