Squad call is big Development for rally ace Tindall

MOTORSPORT

EWAN TINDALL’S bid to become a major driving force is set to accelerate - thanks to a top-gear boost, writes TONY HODGSON.

The 17-year-old from Ryton has been invited to join the the Motor Sport Association’s Academy Squad Development Programme.

He and 28 other rally, karting and rallycross drivers aged 14-24 will have the chance to work with motorsport professionals to improve their all-round performance skils.

Tindall (pictured right) said: “It is the second time I have applied to join the programme.

“I did so last year but was probably a bit too young to be considered.

“The programme allows me to work with motorsport professionals and resources to improve myself as an all-round driver.

“You work on skills such as preparation, technical stuff, handling the media.

“I am one of four rally drivers on the programme, although I am just one of two rally drivers in the first year of the programme.

“It is a real achievement to have been recognised by the MSA and it is an opportunity for me to learn important and vital skills.”

The programme’s sessions are staged around the country.

Most participants attend for just a year but St Thomas More, Blaydon, pupil Tindall hopes to be one of those invited back for a second year.

After a break from rallying after winning the British National and Scottish Junior 1000 Rally Championships, Tindall made his senior and gravel rally debut in the Plains Rally in Welshpool.

His involvement came just 13 days after passing his driving test - and he drove well to finish third in the Fiesta ST Trophy as well as 60th overall out of 125 starters.

That was followed by the fifth round of the BTRDA Rally Championship and Fiesta ST Trophy - the Carlisle Stages Rally in Kielder Forest.

Despite it being just his second senior rally, the youngster won the Trophy and N3 class by 25 seconds and finished a creditable 28th overall.

Tindall added: “I was over the moon with the result and did not think I would be battling for a podium, never mind taking the win.

“This is a really promising sign as I look to keep gaining experience on the gravel for a championship campaign in 2019.”

Tindall is back in action in round six of the BTRDA Rally Championship in Bulith Wells in Wales this weekend.