Snetterton Speed Series - A Nearly Great Result! 01-Sep-09 After problems with handling over the bumps at Brands Hatch, a different damper setup was tried in Friday testing. The car showed its great speed and had improved balance, but the bouncing remained a puzzle. As sometimes happens there was a good reason for this which would reappear later. In the 2nd practice session the Honda engine ground to a halt with the oil pump belt the taking the blame and the Pilbeam missed the following session. The LANAN team worked hard and when the new parts arrived at the track got the MP98 ready for the last session. The Pilbeam ran several development aero parts in this session to good results. Qualifying setup was good, although still bouncing and the car worked perfectly with Charlie putting in the fastest lap just a couple of tenths from pole, in a strong 2nd place. After such little testing it was a fantastic effort and we were confident of the setup for the race. In the race Charlie and Damien drove impeccably to get the Virage into a 30 second lead before the second pit stops. All that was required was a quick and tidy pitstop to maintain the place. An air jack problem meant the tyres could not be changed, but in spite of well worn tyres Charlie was able to maintain the lead, keeping a buffer to the No.99 car of Barry Gates. The earlier bouncing problem now took its toll and caused a fracture to the rocker bracket. Together with a paddle shift which refused to engage 6th gear the team reluctantly retired the Virage from the lead at four hours. A frustrating end to the race after so much effort and progress was made. The MP98 Virage showed it had great race pace, running 30 seconds in the lead though the middle of the race. Further pictures can be found in our photo gallery For further information or to register interest please contact Pilbeam Racing Designs: info@pilbeamracing.co.uk +44(0)1778 424838