Epps left with '˜mixture of feelings' after BTCC debut

Michael Epps in action on his British Touring Car Championship debut at Brands Hatch. Picture (c) Darren Hurrell

Michael Epps is confident of pushing for points finishes in a fortnight's time at Donington Park after showing huge improvements over the course of his Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship debut at Brands Hatch this weekend.

Epps’ best result of the weekend came in the second race; after settling in 21st after a busy few opening laps, he lapped at the same pace as those in the points scoring positions as he rose up the order to 17th place, just two positions shy of his maiden BTCC points finish.

While the weekend didn’t finish as hoped with a frustrating run to 21st place in the third race, Epps ended his debut meeting third in the standings for Jack Sears Trophy and with plenty of crucial experience under his belt ahead of the trip to Donington on April 16/17.

Hemel Hempstead speedster Epps said: “I’m a real mixture of feelings after this weekend, mainly relieved and somewhat chilled out.

“I had so many anticipations of what it would be like in BTCC, I didn’t know if I would feel comfortable at all but in that first session I really felt like I could get stuck in.

“It’s very interesting to see how the field has been shaken up a bit this year, with new cars, parts, etc – It’s made it a little bit more of a lottery.

“I have to take my hat off to the Team Hard guys at RCIB Insurance Racing, essentially still building the car on the night and morning before qualifying.

“I’m more than happy with a 17th place finish and looking forward to pushing towards that top 10 area.”

He continued: “I have to give a massive thank you to RCIB Insurance Racing for providing a backbone in my BTCC debut, and the rest of my partners too! These are the biggest moments of my career and I can’t wait to rock up at Donington in two weeks for even more!”