on first outing with Millennium
Jake Ball’s shock last-minute switch to Millennium Motorsport - just four days before the Super 1 season got underway at PFi last weekend (21 / 22 March) - quickly proved to be a perfect partnership.
Having previously struggled for pace in the KF2 class, the 16 year old from Rotherham was enjoying a reversal of fortunes - finishing 2nd overall in Timed Qualifying. He then went on to win the 1st heat, and take 2nd place in the 2nd – sealing pole for the first final.An awesome start, married to a brilliant piece of thinking, saw the teenager hold his advantage in the opening lap. As the field tore down to the 1st hairpin, Ball braked early to back the field up behind him. Sadly, the sudden appearance of the safety flag negated his early advantage but at the green flag, he again assumed the lead. His advantage was short-lived but, after losing it, Jake got the hammer down, setting a series of fast laps before re-taking the lead and maintaining it all the way to the chequered flag.In the 2nd final a crash at the notoriously tricky first hairpin split the field behind Ball. Despite strong challenges, a polished performance saw Jake secure his second win of the day by a comfortable margin to applause from the grandstand.
When asked if he felt that his switch to Essex-based Millennium was worthwhile? "Definitely! It was really good. It’s fantastic working with Dean (Panrucker, the Millennium boss). He always looks to try and improve things. Even when I was quick in testing, he was constantly looking for a way to go faster! I couldn't have asked for a better start to the season. I hope it continues. The pressure's off me now I've got my first win(s)."
It’s a return to form for the team who steered Carl Stirling to last year’s British KF3 Super 1 and Open Championships.Speaking of his new signing, Dean said “He's very, very good - a smooth and clever driver. He's a delight to work with because he listens and then gets on with it. Jake's a quiet lad but he's intelligent - he looked after his engine and tyres to make sure that he brought his kart home and seal both wins.”
However, Panrucker sounded a note of caution, saying, “We’ve had a good weekend but let's not get carried away, there’s still a long way to go."There are berths currently available for drivers looking to join the multiple title-winning team - Millennium are available to contest the Super 1 Championship, Formula Kart Stars Championships (UK and International) and the key European and CIK events.
To find out more email deanpanrucker1@blackberry.orange.co.uk
