Liberty Properties-backed single-seater racer James Theodore will remain with Hathersage-based Formula Renault BARC Championship squad Hillspeed for the 2010 season, the team has confirmed.
The 18-year-old from Telford, Shropshire, finished an excellent sixth overall in the driver standings during his first full season of Formula Renault BARC action last year, having previously scorched to the 2008 BARC Winter Championship with three class wins and a 100 per cent podium record.
Since his car racing debut during the latter part of 2008, Theodore has become one of the most promising young drivers in the championship and will undoubtedly be aiming for title honours when the 2010 Formula Renault BARC season gets underway on 17th/18th April at Brands Hatch, Kent.
“I’m confident we’ll be up there near the front come the start of the season”, commented the New College Telford student, “I improved throughout last season, setting the fastest lap at Rockingham, but I need to be stronger in qualifying – that will be vital.
“We have had some very good tests at Snetterton, Anglesey and Pembrey and we’re all feeling very positive about our dry and wet weather pace. The all round package is very good so the aim now is to prepare well during March and to be in the best shape possible for the first round.”
Delighted to secure the services of front-runner Theodore to spear-head Hillspeed’s attack this year, team principal Richard Ollerenshaw is now keen to hear from other experienced BARC competitors as well as category newcomers to fill the remaining seats.
“We’re all very happy that James will continue as a Hillspeed driver for the coming season as this was the original plan”, commented Ollerenshaw, “When he debuted with us late in 2008 we knew he had great potential and last year he proved he has the pace to be a consistent front-runner. I’ve no doubt at all James should be a podium finisher and title contender this season.
“We plan to run possibly three cars in Formula Renault BARC this year. We are in discussions with a number of drivers but we’re also welcoming enquiries from other drivers with experience of the category and also those stepping up from karting or other junior formulae.”
To discuss testing and race opportunities in Formula Renault BARC with Hillspeed, please contact Richard Ollerenshaw on 01433 650400 or via email to richard@hillspeed.co.uk
