SWR Team Principal Ken Page has praised the organisation of the new TCR UK series, in which Howard Fuller managed to score a brace of top five finishes at Silverstone at the weekend.
Despite a lack of recent racing experience, Fuller fought his way to fifth in the opening race, despite a poor start having dropped him from third on the grid to seventh.
Then in race two the London racer managed to go one better, despite also at one stage dropping down to seventh early on in the race, with Fuller eventually crossing the finish line in fourth in his Honda Civic Type-R.
Sean Walkinshaw Racing Team Principal Ken Page was full of praise for Fuller in the circumstances, whilst also praising the TCR UK series, despite there being only 13 cars for the event.
“All in all, it’s been a good weekend”, said Page. “Howard hadn’t driven the car properly until the test on Friday, and the weather was changing all the time, so I think driver and team have done a good job and we’re happy to come away with fourth and fifth places.
“We know a lot of the others have done more running, so we’re pleased with how the first weekend has gone.
“The car ran faultlessly and Howard brought it back home without any damage, which is always a bonus!
“Obviously you want to be on the podium, and we weren’t far away in the second race, but we’re happy and very impressed with the organisation from everyone at TCR – it’s a great series.”
Fuller himself was slightly frustrated to have missed out on a podium chance, but felt that his consistent results were positive given the lack of significant pre-season testing.
“What a fun weekend it’s been”, said Fuller. “From my perspective with my performance, I think given the circumstances – eight laps prior to coming here, in the damp at Donington, and then mixed weather for the Friday test – overall it’s been pretty good.
“I’m happy with the results, the car has come back without a scratch and the team has some great data to move forward with.
“There was a podium on the cards for us, so I am disappointed we didn’t quite get that, but I’ve really enjoyed it and I’m very grateful for the awesome support I’ve had.
“I honestly wouldn’t have been here without my fantastic sponsors, genuinely, and the guys at TCR have been great too.
“It’s been so good working with the SWR guys, the work ethic is unreal, the attention to detail is just incredible – I wouldn’t want to race with anyone else.
“The history of the team is obviously amazing and I feel in very safe hands. We work so closely, and I’m pleased I’ve been able to give the team the feedback they need. I’m just sad the first weekend is all over!”
Fuller leaves the Northamptonshire venue fourth overall in the drivers’ championship standings on 54 points, 35 behind series leader Dan Lloyd.