AFTER a stunning start to a new British Touring Car Championship campaign, Speedworks Motorsport are expecting a challenge this weekend.

History repeated for driver Tom Ingram when he piloted the Northwich team’s Toyota Avensis to victory in the opener at Brands Hatch as he had done 12 months earlier.

He followed that with a podium finish in the second race.

That leaves him behind defending champion Gordon Shedden when the series resumes at Donington Park tomorrow, where his car – initially at least – will be slowed by 66kg of success ballast.

The 23-year-old can be optimistic though after topping the time-sheet during a pre-season test at the Leicestershire circuit last month.

“We are under no illusions it’ll be much tougher this time around – particularly in qualifying and the first race,” said team principal Christian Dick.

“The BTCC is ultra-competitive, and that level of weight will probably cost us a few tenths per lap around Donington – possibly more over a race distance.”

Once the weight comes off, then Ingram is confident he can again demonstrate his face-lifted machine’s pace.

Dick added: “Look at what happened at last year.

“Shedden couldn’t stay inside the top 10 on 66kg, so we’re certainly going to have a fight on our hands.

“That said, it’s a battle we’re relishing and our sights are focused firmly on the bigger picture.

“Hopefully it will be a case of short-term pain for long-term gain.”

Timetable

Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship

Saturday, April 15

0930-1010 Free Practice

1225-1305 Free Practice

1540-1610 Qualifying

Sunday, April 16

1140 Race one

1437 Race two

1722 Race three

Admission

Saturday, April 15

Adults £17

Accompanied under 13s Free

Sunday, April 16

Adults £35

Accompanied under 13s Free

Television schedule

Sunday, April 16

ITV4 1045-1815