Today marked the start of the second round of the Ferrari Challenge Trofeo Pirelli UK race series at Oulton Park, a picturesque track famous for its demanding corners and elevation changes. Ideal weather conditions blessed the 2.7-mile circuit, enabling drivers in both the Trofeo Pirelli and Coppa Shell categories to unleash the full potential of their Ferrari 488 Challenge Evo race cars.
In the Trofeo Pirelli class qualifying session, Gilbert Yates from Charles Hurst demonstrated consistent speed from FP2 and clinched the top spot with a time of 1’39”077, closely followed by his teammate Andrew Morrow. Meanwhile, in the Coppa Shell category, Robert Rees of Dick Lovett Swindon continued his impressive performance from Brands Hatch, securing pole position with a time of 1’41”482.
Trofeo Pirelli Race: The sunny weather heated up the Oulton Park international circuit, improving track conditions and tire grip. The front trio of Gilbert Yates, Andrew Morrow, and Pranav Vangala from HR Owen capitalized on the favorable conditions, immediately setting a fast pace to distance themselves from the rest of the field. As the race progressed, Yates and Morrow intensified their battle, pulling away from the pack and setting the stage for a thrilling duel between the Charles Hurst drivers.
Midway through the race, Yates, who had built a 2-second lead over Morrow, encountered a technical issue, forcing him to retire from the race. Morrow inherited the lead, with Vangala and Ajay Litt from Carrs Exeter also benefitting from Yates’ misfortune, securing podium positions. Morrow ultimately took the checkered flag, Vangala achieved his best finish in the Trofeo Pirelli class, and Litt impressed with a podium finish on his debut race.
Coppa Shell Race: Spectators witnessed an intense battle in the Coppa Shell category right from the start. Robert Rees made a decisive move on Trofeo Pirelli driver Haymandhra Pillai to establish a lead, while Peter Hunter aimed to challenge Rees on his home track. Despite Hunter’s efforts, Rees skillfully maintained his position at the front, fending off his rival.
Meanwhile, Mike Dewhirst from Dick Lovett Swindon held his ground early on, but Gary Redman from Graypaul Nottingham gradually closed the gap. Dewhirst responded to the pressure, successfully defending his position. Steve Dopson, also from Dick Lovett Swindon, capitalized on the favorable track conditions to catch up with Redman, ultimately overtaking him in the final minutes of the race.
As the race concluded, Rees secured his third victory of the 2024 season, followed by Hunter and Dewhirst, mirroring the podium lineup from Race 2 at Brands Hatch.
Looking Ahead: Race 2 is scheduled for Saturday, with Qualifying 2 starting at 10:30 and the race at 15:15. Weather conditions are expected to improve slightly. Both sessions can be watched live at the circuit or online at live.ferrari.com.
