STOCK CAR RACING
Longridge stock car ace Nicole Russell has spoken about her budding career and reflects on an impressive season, writes Jim Turner.
“I got my first ever win in the Prostock Basic formula this year and I was buzzing,” she said. “It was a really good season for me and I managed to pick up a lot of good results. I managed to finish as a blue grade driver in only my second season.”
“I have just started an apprenticeship at M and M Timber Frame in Stoneyburn so 2019 has been a good year for me.”
Nicole had been a keen spectator at the Cowdenbeath Racewall but whilst she would have liked to race a ministox it just wasn’t possible.
The Prostock Basic formula was introduced to try to entice newcomers into the sport without having to spend a lot of money. Nicole was amongst those who were attracted.
She said: “My main sponsor, Ian Robertson from the Garage at Whitburn, helped us to build a car. I had told everyone that I wanted money for my birthday and Christmas to put in my “stock car” fund and was able to get a car.
“At that time I couldn’t drive I had to get a few lessons, especially how to change gear before I went over for the practice meeting. I got my seat, harness and safety equipment for my Christmas.
“I couldn’t drive and had never been in the driving seat, I didn’t even know how to change gear or how to pick away. So my first time on track at practice, I was very anxious and was pushed up to the pit gate and drove onto track. I had stalled the car about half a dozen times before I got onto the track but eventually got going and had someone stand at the place where I needed to change gear.
“That was something else but I got there and the car was still in one piece at the end. I went to every practice session and would have flags tied to the safety fencing showing me where to let off the accelerator before the corner.”
She added: “Contact was allowed in my first season and I found it hard. I was continually getting pushed out of the way and ended up hitting the wall on more than one occasion but when possible I would get straight back onto the track. I stuck it out though and was pleasantly surprised when I got a trophy for the “Most Improved driver.”
“I got a Yaris automatic for the season that has just finished and started as a white roof at front of the grid for the first time. I have really enjoyed my racing.
“The rules had changed to make it a non- contact formula and I think that made a lot of difference. I started to get results and each time I did I felt my confidence grow.
“I did well at the Highland Fling race at Crimond and my confidence grew. August 24 will be fondly remembered by me for ages. I told everyone that I was going to win - and I did.
“I won the final and what a thrill it was when I crossed the line. I was about the length of the straight ahead of the second placed driver. I got a great reception from the crowd, especially my family and friends on my victory lap.
“I was full of confidence when the Scottish Championship came around but it didn’t go well. To start with I drew the biggest number out of the hat so I was last car on the grid.
“I will use my present car at the Winter meeting but hope to have another ready for the start to the new season. I will stay in the basics for another season and then decide what to do after that. Maybe a 1300 Saloon or a Stock Rod.
“A Formula II would be nice but I don’t think that I could afford one.
“I have had a lot of help to get me onto the track especially from my Dad and Ian and a few others. I don’t think, in fact I am sure, that without their help and support I would still be a spectator.”