British Truck Racing leader David Jenkins did the double at Brands Hatch today (Saturday) to extend his points lead ahead of tomorrow’s triple-header in front of a sell out crowd. Jenkins now leads the BTRC standings by 50 points with 63 still available on the main event day at Trucks and Fireworks in association with Dynes.
Jenkins' main rival, Stuart Oliver, started from pole in his Volvo VNL but his attempt to narrow the gap was thwarted on the opening lap. Oliver ended up in the gravel at Druids following contact with fellow front row starter Craig Reid, causing the red flag to make an appearance.
It was Jenkins who benefited, leading off from pole in the restarted contest and never being headed on his way to victory across 13 laps. Ricky Collett kept him honest initially before eventually sinking back to finish second, just over six seconds back. Local pub landlord Steve Powell completed the podium, making it a trio of MAN TGX machines on the rostrum.
Simon Reid and Nathan Smith completed the top five. Oliver ultimately crossed the line in eighth, having rejoined from the pit lane and worked his way up the order.
In the second heavyweight encounter, Jenkins passed pole sitter Craig Reid on the opening lap and once again streaked to victory across 16 laps. Reid was second on the road, but dropped down the order following the application of a post-race penalty which promoted Michael Oliver to second.
Smith completed the podium, following up his top-five from earlier in the year, one spot ahead of Collett who continued his strong showing on the Indy circuit. John Bowler was fifth, one place ahead of the penalised Reid who was ultimately awarded sixth place. Stuart Oliver was seventh, once again losing ground to Jenkins.
British Truck Racing Championship, Brands Hatch, Race 1
- David Jenkins, MAN TGX
- Ricky Collett, MAN TGX, +6.273s
- Steve Powell, MAN TGX, +6.697s
- Simon Reid, Iveco Stralis, +8.668s
- Nathan Smith, MAN TGX, +10.212s
British Truck Racing Championship, Brands Hatch, Race 2
- David Jenkins, MAN TGX
- Michael Oliver, MAN TGS, +3.068s
- Nathan Smith, MAN TGX, +9.291s
- Ricky Collett, MAN TGX, +11.314s
- John Bowler, MAN TGX, +14.702s
Click here to view results and times from this weekend’s event.
PLEASE NOTE: Sunday is SOLD OUT. Do not travel to the venue without a valid entry ticket or pass.
Photo: Gary Hawkins