Faulty gearbox frustrates Cumbernauld racer Craig

CUMBERNAULD racing driver Craig Mitchell was left disappointed at the Oulton Park round of the Sports2000 Championship recently when he had no choice but to retire thanks to a faulty gearbox.
By The Newsroom
Published 15th Sep 2011, 15:00 BST

The 250-mile journey seemed local compared with some of the events visited by the well-travelled family team.

A full day practising had been booked for Friday, and by the end of the session lap times were good.

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After a 20-minute qualifying session on the Saturday, in good conditions, Craig found himself on the front row, 2nd place - an unbelievable achievement with a really fast time.

As the day wore on the sky darkened and a drizzle formed which turned to rain a few minutes before the race.

As he approached the grid position he realised that first gear would not engage and came out of the start in second last.

At the 15 minute mark Craig had no alternative but to park off the track in a safe position, so as not to interfere with the rest of the race due to extended gearbox issues. There was massive disappointment in not finishing the race but the qualifying result had clearly highlighted Craig’s ability.

The next round is at Silverstone on September 30. Thanks to Barking Mad for their support.