Jenner and Brand take superb victories to give new CRG chassis dream start
Do fairytales come true? Tristram Oman, the designer of the CRG Dark Knight chassis might well argue that they do after seeing his kart take stunning victories at Whilton Mill last weekend (4/5 April).
In Junior Max, Coles Racing’s Ed Brand was in brilliant form – fastest in Timed Qualifying before winning the heat and first final. After leading much of the second race, he sensibly opted for points over the possibility of crashing out, to finish as runner-up and leave the Northamptonshire circuit with the series lead in his pocket.
Commenting on the Dark Knight chassis, the Hertfordshire driver said, “It feels really good to drive. The chassis is very well balanced and did me proud. It’s given us a great start to the season and is clearly fast. Lee (Jenner) and I have proved that.”
Despite nursing injured tendons in his arm, Lee Jenner was able to run at the front and cope with the furious pace set in the Senior class.
Second quickest in qualifying, the 26-year old HRS driver also crossed the line in second place in the heat. Pushed wide at the start of the first final, Lee fought back to take a strong 3rd at the chequered flag - giving himself that all-important inside line for the first corner for the start of the following final.
An excellent start saw him survive the opening-lap dramas to join a thrilling dice for the lead. The race had the crowds thronging the barriers, as the spectators tried not to miss the drama unfolding in front of them. Making his move at precisely the right moment, Lee seized the lead.
“The start had been a bit edgy but I got my head down and worked my way into second. With four minutes to go, I thought ‘Give it a go’ – and went for it.”
After crossing the line to take a popular victory, Lee added, “This is a great Super 1 debut for the Dark Knight. It’s easier to set up than other karts, the tyre wear is fantastic and it’s so easy to drive.”
HRS boss, Tristram couldn’t contain his delight, “We couldn’t ask anymore from Lee and Ed, I’m ecstatic”.
“We designed the chassis specifically for the Rotax classes,” he explained, “And I’m over the moon to leave Whilton leading the (Junior and Senior) points tables.”
“Can we maintain our form? I think so. We’ve worked for a long time to have a kart that is strong both at the beginning and the end of a race and we’ve got that.”
