MaX5 Racing Championship

Grant ends solid season with career-best result at PembreyGeorge Grant’s maiden MaX5 Racing Championship campaign concluded with a season-best finish at Pembrey last weekend (October 4/5), as his efforts to raise awareness for official Armed Forces charity Mission Motorsport came to a close.As with Thruxton two weeks ago, Grant was making his debut at the Carmarthenshire circuit, although shared characteristics with Hampshire’s former airfield gave him cause for optimism heading to Wales.A run of six top-10 finishes in the Mk3 class had demonstrated gradual improvements for the GGR Motorsport driver, who was eager to wrap up his first season in style.However Grant’s efforts to learn the 1.456-mile track during Saturday’s qualifying session were dashed by heavy rain.Nevertheless, ninth in race one further consolidated his chances of remaining sixth in the Mk3 standings, although a wet set-up on a dry track hampered his progress.With the Nankang tyres performing better in the rain, a switch to the rubber used by championship contender Paul Roddison for Sunday morning’s dry season finale – in addition to camber and toe adjustments – proved an inspired decision.Indeed, the points gained by finishing a season-best eighth cemented Grant’s championship position, capping off his year in positive fashion and demonstrating the progress he’s made.“I must admit that my lack of experience at Pembrey wasn’t ideal,” explained Grant afterwards. “Qualifying was washed out, and it was difficult to stay on-track. Nonetheless, I enjoyed the challenge in race one, although the car was tricky to handle.“Fortunately, I was able to try Paul’s [Roddison] tyres for Sunday. The difference was enormous; the car really was a joy to drive and it was a great way to end the season. I’m already looking forward to returning next year!“My first season has been a real baptism of fire, but it’s been great fun. It’s just as hard as I knew it would be, although I’m pleased with how I’ve developed throughout the year. There’s a real camaraderie between everyone in the paddock, which helps to create a brilliant atmosphere. The series is a perfect platform for anyone wanting to try motorsport, no matter how experienced they are.“Nonetheless, none of this would have been possible without a fantastic effort from Mission Motorsport’s entire team. They’ve worked extremely hard in difficult circumstances, and continue to leave me in awe of how they approach their work. I must also congratulate fellow Mission Motorsport-run driver David Birrell, who finished an incredible third overall in the Mk1 class. Last but not least, I must also thank my family, most notably my wife Heather, whose support has been invaluable.”Grant will reunite with the official Armed Forces charity at Wales’ Anglesey Circuit on November 8/9 for the Race of Remembrance – an eight-hour endurance race that combines the traditional period of reflection with motorsport – where he’ll team up with newly crowned MaX5 Racing champion, Jonathan Cryer.


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