Ginetta GT4 Supercup vice-champion Will Burns impressed during a test at a sodden Snetterton last week [20th October] after completing a day’s running in one of Team.HARD’s Toyota Avensis’.
Burns, who was also faced with the prospect of switching from rear-wheel drive machinery (Ginetta) to the front-wheel drive NGTC Avensis, was pleasantly surprised to set comparable lap times with .HARD’s Jake Hill in the wet conditions, before improving his times with Hill’s assistance throughout the day.
“It was a little bit daunting to be heading out onto a wet circuit for my first run in a completely new car to me, but I was pleased with how I got to grips with the car and was able to start putting in some competitive lap times pretty quickly.
“I was quite surprised to be not far off Jake’s pace on my first time out, and I’m now confident that with some more seat time I could really push closer to the competitive pace. It was a hugely encouraging first run in the car.
“Overall, it was an incredible experience. I’ve wanted to drive a BTCC car for a number of years and it was everything I wanted it to be and more. I’d like to say a massive thank you to Tony Gilham and all the team for giving me this opportunity.”
Team Principal Tony Gilham was also impressed with the pace and attitude of Burns, and hinted the two parties may work together in the future.
“Will is an exceptional young talent and one that will rise to the very top. We have been watching him for a while now and have developed a great relationship already.
“Will was very impressive in his recent test with us. In his first ever experience in front wheel drive machinery, he was unbelievably quick out of the box. Not only was he fast, but his whole approach and attitude was very professional, and we very much look forward to working with him again in the near future.”