BTCC racer in CSCC historic debut
British Touring Car Championship driver Mike Bushell admitted that he needed to adapt his driving style after racing a rear-wheel-drive car for the first time last weekend.
The reigning Renault Clio Cup champion competed in the Classic Sports Car Club meeting at Brands Hatch, where he shared a Ford Lotus Cortina with Josh Jackson in the onehour endurance Classic K Series event.
Bushell, who currently races a Volkswagen CC for Team Hard in the BTCC, qualified fifth but was forced to start from the pitlane due to clutch problems before the start.
Despite the issues, the two drivers each drove strong stints to finish sixth in a race of attrition.
“I have really loved driving this car,” said Bushell. “But I’ve learned that the driving style required is totally different to what I’m used to in frontwheel-drive BTCC cars and Clios.”
Bushell, who currently sits 24th in the BTCC standings after taking a best result of fifth at Brands Hatch in the opening round, also partnered Richard Wheeler in the Tin Tops race held later in the afternoon, with the pair sealing a commanding victory in their Ford Fiesta ST.
“With the BTCC on a break and Brands being my local track, I felt it was good to get out on track and help set me up for the rest of the season. It’s been a great weekend,” added Bushell.