We have only raced once at this circuit 10 years ago and the CALM All Porsche series has never visited.
As usual our car was prepped before we arrived with a well researched softer suspension setup applied. The circuit is fast but bumpy, with two fast chicanes and close proximity barriers around the outside to keep you focused.
An extra 'All Comers' race at the end of the day added to the track time but made it a potentially long day in the driver's seat.
After having a conversation about easing himself in, given damp patches on the circuit from overnight rain, Mike was on front running pace the whole of the CALM qualifying session. Fastest SP2 Boxster at times and just edged down the 3rd row of the grid (P6) on the final lap.
An extra 'All Comers' qualifying allowed us to dial out some under-steer, but with 40 cars on track the aim was to avoid any damage.
Race 1.
The annual CALM photo shoot was taken on the grid over lunch and spectators invited to an open grid walk - which was well received.
CALM Race 1:
Off the line we were inmediatey into P4 overall, but in the middle of a 4 way Boxster fight for 3rd place. The pace was frantic with nothing between the cars performance wise.
An attempted overtake around the outside, left us vulnerable and we ended up losing two places back to P6.
By mid we got 5th back, but were now detached from the cars in front and defending hard just as light rain started on the start finish straight.
Braking later into turn one, caused a snap of oversteer and whilst that was corrected instantly , the inside kerbs unsettled the rear enough to sent it around.
As usual - the car wouldn't restart properly until the key was removed and reinserted and we go going again down in P10.
The next lap another Boxster wasn't so luky, spinning heavily into the tyre barrier at the same pace and bringing the red flag out.
Barriers repaired, we had a 5min / 3 lap sprint and make up a couple of places finishing P8 in touching distance of that front booster battle for race #2.
Unfortunately we didn't make it to the grid, having found a loose rear hub nut, which was masking a failed wheel bearing. There was an inch of play in the wheel and it likely contributed to the earlier spin.
There was.a chance of replacing it before the final 100 race, but on the end we decided it was best to take out time with all the tools at home.
After watching the 2nd CALM race the event was called to a premature end. As safety barrier repairs, which as been a problem all day, we're unable to be completed in time.
