There was only one new name on the grid for the Michelin Ginetta G50 Cup qualifying at Rockingham. It was traffic free, but gear pump problems made the YourRacingCar.com (YRC) car sluggish resulting in a consistent but mid-order qualifying position of sixth for the weekend’s three races. Saturday afternoon’s race saw YRC’s car squeezed out, but YRC’s driver Fulvio Mussi held on to the car in fronts tail and took his place back on lap 4. Then Fulvio hounded down close Cup rival Tom Sharp and made a move on lap 8 which resulted in YRC taking the chequered flag of the 10 lap race in 5th despite some rear damage from the action.
Sunday morning’s 18 lap contest saw an early racing incident lifting the YRC car and weakening the left rear bodywork. Further on in the race Fulvio was again defending his position as his car was bumped up the rear several times by Sharp. Eventually the damaged left rear rubbing into the tyre required a visit to the pits for a change of the deflating tyre as control of the car had become too difficult. Due to other incidents and mechanical problems for other cars in the race shuffling the pack Fulvio rejoined the race in 8th and held position until the end.
The final race saw a second corner run in with title chasing Frank Wrathall leaving the YRC car without a bonnet. Skilful driving from Fulvio ensured the race was completed. The loss of another car from the front of the pack meant that despite the aerodynamic disadvantage to the YRC car Fulvio brought it home for the fans in sixth; only to lose ten points from a stewards decision regarding the early contact. It’s still enough to take Fulvio into the final race weekend of the Cup fourth, but with Sharp and returning previously retired Christian Dick close on his wheels.
Hannah James, Team Manager, said; “Fulvio showed why he is the fan’s favourite this weekend. Despite a mid-pack qualifying he has fought hard to retain his Cup position. Whilst the television coverage is welcomed by our sponsors we’d rather not be battling with a damaged car throughout the weekend - Fulvio’s got talent! Others would have struggled to bring the car home at this circuit let alone in sixth in the final race.”
“We’re looking forward to seeing more of the YRC fans pop by the team’s garage at Brands Hatch on 3rd and 4th October and by joining YRC before 24th September fans will have time to get their name and picture on the car this year. Their money will go towards the repairs on the car. It’s simple go and press the ‘Engine Start’ button at joinyrc.com. Businesses wanting to come to the racing to see their website over a wheel arch as one of our tyre sponsors should email Kathryn@yourracingcar.com.”
