Kentish Express Ashford & District
Champion Swaffer quick to put down marker
Motorsport
Matt Swaffer made a winning start to the defence of his Toyo Tires Production BMW Championship title at Cadwell Park in Lincolnshire on Sunday.
The 37-year-old contracts manager from Newingreen claimed pole position in qualifying, before winning both races. He set the fastest lap second time out and not even a puncture on the trip home could take the gloss off a great opening weekend.
The two-man team of Swaffer and dad and race engineer Roger, who have former champion Gary Feakins helping them with engine setups this year, put down an early marker, beating off the challenge of runner-up Will Davison in both contests.
Roger said: “We put in a lot of effort and work on the engine during the winter, making it a lot more powerful and competitive. We have got a good car and good driver.”
Cadwell Park returned to the calendar for the first time since 2014 and Swaffer enjoyed himself.
Roger said: “The weekend couldn’t have gone much better and Matt did well
“He looked comfortable in the opening 13 minutes of the race, then there was a crash which meant everybody closed up, eventually getting home in front of Davison by about three tyre lengths.
“Matt made a good start in the second as well, chased home again by Davison who seemed to suffer a drop in power in the closing stages.”
The Swaffers are again selffinancing their operation but won the title by beating off the challenge of more wealthy full-time teams and they have already got their sights set on defending their crown.
Roger said: “We would love to win it again and are looking for any sponsor who would be interested in backing us.”