Jelley bags points to close gap to his rivals
STEPHEN Jelley scored points in three finishes at Croft to close on his rivals in the standings as the British Touring Car Championship heads into its summer break.
Following his race three win at Oulton Park last time out, the Leicester driver, above, was feeling optimistic ahead of rounds 13, 14 and 15, especially after topping the times in pre-season testing at the North Yorkshire circuit.
He got off to the good start by declaring himself happy with the performance of his BMW 330e M Sport in the first free practice session of the weekend.
An early red flag in the critical 30-minute qualifying session on Saturday afternoon interrupted Jelley’s first run on new tyres and when the track went green, a lock up hindered his progress.
Fitting a fresh set, he was able to bank the 12th fastest time but knew there was more speed left in the car.
Things were looking good for the three 15-lap races on Sunday, but the results of the new hybrid regulations mean that the field is much more balanced, with the rearwheel-drive cars no longer enjoying the starting advantage they once had.
Despite two safety car periods in the opening contest, the race was a largely processional affair with Jelley crossing the line in 11th place.
The second race was a repeat of the first, with the safety car again deployed, and when it resumed George Gamble dropped out of contention, promoting Jelley to 10th position.
As the number 10 was drawn for the reverse grid contest, Jelley lined up third.
Getting a good start off the line, the West Surrey Racing driver held his position until, exiting the chicane, Rory Butcher came flying through.
Despite hounding the Scot in front and being never more than a car’s length behind, Jelley was unable to find a way past and had to settle for fourth place and the 13 points that go with it.
The BTCC now enters its customary summer break before racing resumes at Knockhill for rounds 16, 17, and 18 on July 30 and 31.