Racing update: End of season race weekend and final standings
Leasing Gorilla has sponsored 17-year-old rookie Sam Harvey in his racing debut for the 2022 Protyre Motorsport Ginetta GT5 Challenge. Here’s the last update of the season from Sam.
Weekend 7: Donington Park, Derbyshire – an eventful end of season race weekend!
Tough practice sessions & qualifying - The Friday test day was frustrating. Three red flags in each of the first two sessions meant very limited running time which was compounded by a torrential downpour. That meant I could only complete about eight laps in the dry, but I did gain valuable wet running experience!
Saturday morning started badly for me, I pushed too hard on cold tyres as I entered the track and spun, hitting the barrier. Disappointingly, I sustained too much damage to continue and no time was set which meant I hadn’t technically completed enough qualifying laps to race. After a nail-biting wait, it was confirmed I could race, having proved I’d previously completed enough laps.
Race one - Due to the practice error, I started at the back of the pro class in 16th position. A strong start and I moved up to 12th, only to be tapped by a teammate putting me last. I pushed hard which led to some good racing and finished the race in 13th place.
Race two - From P16 on the grid I got another great start, overtaking four cars by turn one. This turned out to be a smoother race overall giving me a 12th place finish.
Race three – I started the very last race of the season from 12th position. Another pacy start and I gained four places from the green lights putting me in eighth. Sadly, drama unfolded at the front of the pack including spins, a blown engine and a safety car which created track chaos. A re-start had me in P13 but with some good racing and a late lunge I ended with a decent 11th placed finish.
So, after a rocky start, the last race weekend ended with lots of positives. I’m particularly delighted that I’m getting known for my talent for fast starts!
Final championship standing - I’m proud to have finished 13th from 17 in the pro class - higher than anyone expected in my first ever racing season.
Reflecting on the season
What a first championship! This has been the best experience of my life and I’m determined to keep progressing. My performance and confidence have improved over the season, and I’m delighted to have secured a handful of top 10 positions. It’s been a real rollercoaster, I’ve experienced highs, lows, tears and laughter and I’ve made friends for life.
I’d like to sincerely thank everyone who has helped me start my dream of becoming a racing driver. I couldn’t have done it without the people around me - my family, friends, team, coaches and of course the sponsors - such as Leasing Gorilla - who have supported me – I am so grateful.
Next up – I’ll be reviewing all the options for next season with my father. But for now, that’s a wrap! Thanks again. Sam
