The 3rd round of the F250 championship brings us on the first of three visits to Cadwell Park. This round is kindly sponsored by The Tuning Works (www.thetuningworks.com) suppliers of all things two stroke and agents for Dave Cooper racing.
Even though it is early in the season two people have already stamped their mark on the series, reigning champion and series leader Alan Armour (RGV250) and novice Ross Searle (Aprilia RS250).
Following his two wins in the treacherous conditions at Mallory - Ross Searle the surprise of the series and second in the championship, will be looking to close in on Alan. However, as this is Ross’s first visit to Cadwell, experienced campaigner Alan must start as favourite at this his local circuit.
As with Motogp, 2006 looks like being the year of the rookies. With Ross already having made his mark, another young firebrand - Ben Phillips (KR-1S), will be looking to collect a few scalps. This will be 16 year old Ben’s second race meeting and he will be looking to make amends for Mallory where three DNFs didn’t reflect the speed he showed.
For many, Cadwell will be an opportunity to kick start their season after the problems with the weather and machines at Croft and Mallory, in particular Mark Jordan (KR1S) a former series champion and F400 winner at Cadwell. A poor tyre choice at Mallory meant Mark suffered the ignominy of coming last and being lapped – an experience I am sure he will want to forget.
Chris Smith (RGV250) is another looking for improvement at Cadwell. Having spent much of 2005 battling with and beating James Brennan (CBR400) for position in the F400 series, the two have joined forces in the same team for 2006. However, following the first two rounds Chris has been left scratching his head as to his lack of speed when James is now running in the top six.
Steve Saint an early favourite and fancied runner at Mallory has been hampered with machine problems. Steve has said be patient, though he will be looking for finishes at Cadwell - a circuit he isn’t familiar with, he expects to be on the pace at the next round at Donnington.
The F250 has again attracted a very strong grid with Aprilia, Suzuki and Kawasaki being well represented. Rivalry amongst the manufacturers classes being as strong as that between individuals.
With Ross Searle taking the lead in the Aprilia camp, he is ably supported by Steve Saint, Andy Slinn, James Booth and Iain MacDonald.
Suzuki led by Alan Armour has Richard Gordon (last years novice champion), Alan Ball and Chris Smith in support.
Kawasaki field Mark Jordan, John Hawkes, Simon Carter, Kevin Tiernan, Ben Phillips, Alan Grindley and David Stephenson
Still no Hondas
