CarStore PMR look to continue silverware run at Silverstone

CarStore Power Maxed Racing looks to extend its recent run of podium finishes in the Kwik Fit British Touring Car Championship at Silverstone this weekend [23-24 September].

The Bidford-on-Avon team have enjoyed a brace of second-place finishes in successive meetings, first at Knockhill and Donington GP last time out. That, plus a hatful of Independent wins, have put the team in buoyant spirits heading to the ‘Home of British Motorsport’ this time around.

The team’s trio of Aron Taylor-Smith, Andrew Watson and Mikey Doble arrive with plenty to fight for. Taylor-Smith’s first outright podium in seven seasons at Donington have propelled him to second in the Independent Drivers’ standings, 92 points adrift of ex-PMR racer Josh Cook with six races to run.

Meanwhile, Watson and Doble have garnered plenty of attention recently, with the two locked in a fierce battle at the summit of the Jack Sears Trophy standings, a competition for those who entered the campaign without an overall podium finish.

The gap between them rests at 14 points heading to Silverstone, with Watson currently the beneficiary as the pendulum continues to swing between the pair. CarStore Power Maxed Racing also remain in contention for the Independent Teams’ honours, currently second.

This weekend, the UK’s premier touring car series tackles the 1.6-mile National configuration of Silverstone. Renowned for its somewhat ‘simple’ layout, with three straights and three corners, the venue offers plenty of overtaking opportunities around each lap.

As a result, the action is often unpredictable and, with a host of drivers looking to set themselves up for a chance at glory on Finals Day at Brands Hatch a fortnight later, expect plenty of thrills – and a few spills – along the way.

Qualifying can often make or break the weekend, but the team’s Vauxhall Astra is a proven quantity around Silverstone, with highlights include pole and a podium for Jason Plato in 2019, and a double trip to the rostrum through Dan Lloyd two years later.

As usual, the action will be broadcast live on ITV4, with lights out for Sunday’s three contests at 11:30, 14:25 and 17:10 respectively (all times BST).

Andrew Watson (#11) said:

“I’m really looking forward to getting out at Silverstone, the National circuit is one I really enjoy driving.

“I’ve had great results there in the past, and I know the car should be good around there in the high-speed sections. Everything’s going well and the team are in a great position.

“There’s a lot still to play for in the Jack Sears Trophy in the last two rounds, so I’m feeling fully focused and looking to pick up some more silverware.”

Aron Taylor-Smith (#40) said:

“Silverstone is always one of my favourite races of the year. I absolutely love the track, and how busy it is – it’ll be a jam-packed one in the grandstands, and in our hospitality unit with all our fantastic partners and guests.

“We’re going there off the back of a very successful Donington, and I think we’ve made significant progress with the car. The chassis has always been very fast around here, it’s been on pole in previous years and always scored good results.

“I’m confident going there that the car will be in a very good window, and I’m personally feeling more prepared than ever. Everything is starting to gel – the team, staff, the car. Aspirations are high, and I think we can smash it out the park and finish the season on a real high.”

Mikey Doble (#88) said:

“Coming from a point-less weekend at Donington, I cannot wait to get things underway at Silverstone and push back towards the top ten.

We are now on the home stretch of the 2023 season, and it is crucial that we capitalise on our cars’ strengths on the fast and flowing circuits we have left.

“The battle for the Jack Sears Trophy is as hot as ever and that will remain our point of focus.”

Martin Broadhurst, Team Manager said:

“There’s a real feeling at HQ at the moment that things are starting to click, and the results we’ve had on track have definitely proved that point.

“It means we go to Silverstone this weekend looking for more of the same, and to keep pushing on and challenge for a win, if at all possible.

“The Vauxhall Astra’s characteristics certainly suit the National circuit at Silverstone, so if we can qualify well, I think there’s every chance it’ll be another competitive weekend for the guys.

“Obviously it’s now the business end of the season and I’m sure there will be a few twists and turns up at the front, so being in a position to capitalise on that will be crucial.”

Adam Weaver, Team Principal said:

“This weekend is probably going to be our busiest of the season, with almost 200 VIP guests joining us trackside with our fantastic partners.

“To see such a heightened interest in the team is a real testament to the work Martin, his team and the drivers have been doing on and off-track, which has really propelled us back into the fight at the sharp end of the grid.

“Silverstone has been a happy hunting ground for us previously, so the hope is for a repeat showing, and a weekend for everybody to remember.”