Claire Tippet: Silverstone Just the Tonic for Season Finale

02 November 2005

Having already completed a full season of VW Racing, MSportUK Featured Driver, Claire Tippet ended her 2005 racing calendar at Silverstone last weekend in the Birkett 6 Hour Relay. Teaming up with fellow VW Racing Cup competitors Martin Rutherford, Steve Dorrell, Mark Smith and Jason Marino, Claire was one-fifth of the aptly named ‘Bugs, Golfs and a Boot’ team.

This was the 56th running of the famous end of year race, with a unique relay aspect. With 45 teams entered, the track was akin to a moving motoring museum with a myriad of cars entered. From Austin 5s to American muscle cars, Mallock specials to modern saloons, there really was something for everyone. A handicap system ensured competitiveness for such a wide and varied field.

“For qualifying the track was very slippery” commented Claire afterwards, “but thankfully the weather looked up for the race. In our team we each had three stints. It was amazing not only to be on a mile and a half track with over 40 other cars but it was the variety of cars too. All our relay changeovers went smoothly and it was very exciting. The atmosphere in the whole pitlane was very relaxed and friendly – the perfect way to end the season.”

With the handicap system and so many changeovers taking place it wasn’t an event that was easy to follow but at the end of the day when all the sums were complete the team were very pleased to finish a credible 7th in their class with no major dramas on the way to the chequered flag.

“I thoroughly enjoyed the race” said Claire, “even at the times it seemed a bit mental! On each of my stints my lap times fell and my Golf had no problems which was especially nice as this was our last race together. Now I have qualified as an ARDS race instructor I will still be getting some opportunities behind the wheel taking people out on track days in the next few months but already I can’t wait for the 2006 season and racing again!”

Now as the ‘off season’ kicks in, Claire is busy looking for backing for 2006 and securing plans which she hopes will see her climb further up the motorsport ladder. Claire’s website can be found at www.clairetippet.com

See 2005 series calendar for VW Racing Cup

Related Story 01.10.2005 - Strong Finishes for Claire Tippet in VW Season Finale