Following the announcement that Ross Curnow is to contest the Formula BMW World Final in Bahrain with Nexa Racing, the Thetford-based team brought their UK Championship-winning car for him to test on a damp and wind-swept track at Silverstone on 28^th October.

After meeting Team Principal Andy Kidby and the rest of the team, Ross was quickly out on wets to get to know his new car in less than ideal conditions. In spite of a track that was treacherous in places, Ross seemed immediately at home, showing real commitment on the turn in. Some slight set up changes after studying the data, coupled with a move to slicks as the track dried, saw his lap times tumbling as the day progressed.

Ross was overjoyed. “This is one of the few times this season that I’ve had a car which handles to my liking and it’s giving me great confidence,” he said. “In fact, I’m now having to adjust my driving style to a car that’s more neutral and potentially quicker and I know there’s even more to come. We’ve ended up about a second off the times achieved by the team’s regular drivers at the last championship round here in the summer when conditions were very much better. But we’re also 0.4 sec quicker through one particular complex of corners so it’s all been very encouraging. Andy and the lads have done a great job with this car, they’ve really made me feel part of the team and I can’t wait to get to Bahrain with them.”

Andy Kidby was equally pleased with the day, saying: “Ross settled down in the car quickly. He gave us some good feedback in the wet conditions and after a few changes he got down to some good times. When it dried, he had to get used to the difference between the regular car he’s driven this season and his new one. After getting a feel for the car, Ross started to put in some good, consistent times on what was a very busy track. I was very impressed with his professional approach and feedback and his technical knowledge was pleasantly surprising. The team are all looking forward to working with Ross in Bahrain and I think there is no reason why he cannot win the World Final.”

The World Final is being held in Bahrain between 13^th and 16^th December (see earlier story) and business partners for this event are still being sought. Businesses or private sponsors who are interested in finding out more should contact Alan Curnow on +44 (0) 7778 603553.