George Grant’s partnership alongside Mission Motorsport began with an encouraging display in the MaX5 Racing season-opener at Donington Park last weekend (March 22/23). The GGR Motorsport driver – aiming to raise awareness for the official Armed Forces charity that assists ex-service personnel in recovery and rehabilitation through motorsport – made his season bow at the Leicestershire circuit despite being able to draw on only two previous starts in the category.With only three laps to learn the former grand prix venue, the heavens opened just before Grant prepared to qualify. However, he refused to let his inexperience better his determination during the race, muscling his way past more cars than any other driver, earning him the ‘King George’ moniker.“The car felt extremely good, and I was easily keeping pace with those ahead, which gave me tremendous confidence,” enthused Grant. “Throughout the race, the changing characteristics of the MX5 enabled me to experience how I’ll need to manage those issues in the future. Overall, it was a positive start. The support of my crew, Major Jim Cameron and Tony Compson, was brilliant.”Grant’s fighting spirit certainly echoes the Mission Motorsport philosophy, and will undoubtedly please the entire team, many of whom have suffered the loss of single or multiple limbs.“To share the circuit with Private Dean Williams and Lance Corporal David Birrell – two extremely brave guys who have suffered terribly in Afghanistan – is incredibly satisfying. It’s reminded me just how privileged I am to be involved with their rehabilitation and to think that they’re competing with the injuries they have sustained is unthinkable. To see the exulted look on their faces afterwards was wonderful.”During the final race on Sunday afternoon – televised live as part of the Motors TV Live Raceday – the rain returned, enabling Grant to hone his wet-weather racecraft en route to 21st position when the chequered flag fell. Despite the steep learning curve ahead, Grant was delighted with his opening effort.“Overall it was a successful weekend and I was pleased that I managed to keep the car pointing in the right direction during the second race, despite some hairy moments! Moreover, there are some really great characters in the paddock, which creates a brilliant atmosphere that reminded me of the early years spent with my father Ronnie. It perfectly fits the series’ motto: Taking Fun Seriously.”Grant and Mission Motorsport will resume their MaX5 Racing campaign at Anglesey Circuit, Wales, on April 26/27.