BTCC: VX Racing Colby race two notes

VX Racing secured its second podium of the day in today's fifth round of the 2008 HiQ MSA British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) at Rockingham, with Fabrizio Giovanardi finishing in second place.

Starting from fifth on the grid, the Italian had a flying start which saw him right behind the SEAT of Darren Turner in second place. The safety car was briefly deployed to recover the car from Stuart Oliver. Racing commenced on lap five, with Giovanardi fighting for the lead with Turner. Following an off from the SEAT driver on lap ten, Giovanardi charged past to lead the race.

During the incident, Giovanardi damaged the rear right wheel slightly on his Vectra VXR and the reigning BTCC Champion had to settle for second position in the end.

Following a slow start, team-mate Matt Neal fought his way up to seventh place until he was caught in a tangle with the BMW of Stephen Jelley on lap 14, meaning the Vectra VXR driver lost valid places. Neal finished the race in 12th position.

Tom Onslow-Cole was able to gradually make up places starting from sixth and after a few battles with Jelley and Adam Jones (SEAT Leon), the 20-year-old secured another good points position with a fifth place.

The last race of the day will start at 16:45 at the Northamptonshire circuit.

Fabrizio Giovanardi #1

"The team told me my overtaking manoeuvres during the race were very exciting to watch. When I had the fight with Darren Turner in the SEAT I damaged my rear right wheel and from then I was unable to push harder. It was a shame I couldn't fight with Mat Jackson for the win, but I'm happy to finish in second."

-credit: vx racing