Dominant Ling forced out of Superfinal

Motorsport

Kingsnorth rallycrosser Fred Ling dominated his class at Lydden

Hill on Saturday – until a cruel driveshaft failure ruined his chances in the Superfinal.

The university student, who finished second in the opening Winter Rallycross Series round last month, stormed to victory in the over 1600cc category.

His strong pace put him on pole for the six-lap Superfinal, but disaster struck on the first lap when

Ling’s blue Ford Fiesta suffered mechanical woes.

The former Homewood School pupil, who is studying finance at the University of Portsmouth, had trounced the opposition in the over 1600cc class, helped by the absence of Canterbury star Tristan Ovenden, whose potent Renault Clio V6 was forced out of the event with an engine problem.

Ling was set to enjoy a fierce battle with Belgian visitor Jos Sterkens (Ford Escort) in the Superfinal, but was forced out of the 10-car race when the driveshaft failed as he tried a bold around-the-outside move at Paddock Bend.

Sterkens, a former European champion, went on to win the event, leading home his fellow Belgian racers Bart Coninx and

Peter Byloos.

Ling, who is set to finish his university course in June, is yet to decide which championship he will compete in next season.

Elsewhere, Biddenden rallycrosser Lee Keeler has revealed big plans for the 2020 season.

The Citroen Saxo driver has struck an agreement with British Touring Car Championship team boss Tony Gilham to build a new VW Golf Mk5.

Keeler could race the Supernational-spec car, which will feature a Honda K20 turbo engine, in the British or BTRDA rallycross championships.

Gilham’s Team HARD squad – which is based at Detling Aerodrome – has already supported Keeler during his 2019 campaign.

“This is an amazing opportunity for me,” Keeler said.

“With Team HARD already involved in many motorsport disciplines, Tony is keen to add rallycross to that list.

“After only stepping foot in a race car two years ago, to now be part of a team like this is unbelievable.” Keeler is seeking new partners for the 2020 season. Email keeler20@ btinternet.com or visit the LKRX Facebook page for details.

■ The next round of the Winter Rallycross Series will be held at Lydden on Saturday, January 18.

Picture: Vic Wright Fred Ling dominated his class at Lydden Hill on Saturday