BriSCA F1 World Final Spectacular
12 Sep 2023
The UK’s longest serving short oval racetrack welcomed an extraordinary three-day event for the BriSA F1 World Final, as crowds from near and far packed out the Northampton Raceway stadium.
With a festival atmosphere, there was a lot of excitement in the air. The event had attracted an array of international entrants, featuring drivers from New Zealand, the US and a particularly large number from The Netherlands.
Racing commenced on Friday with the overseas drivers competing for the remaining places on the grid for the feature World Final race on Saturday afternoon. Prior to racing commencing on Saturday, fans had the opportunity to get close to the cars and collect driver’s autographs during the grid walk in the centre of the track.
Saturday’s World Final
NAPA Racing UK’s Jack France was on pole position for the big race and was greeted by a strong fan backing. “It was heartwarming to witness a sea of NAPA merchandise amongst the bumper crowd,” commented France.
With the cars scrutineered and placed into Parc Fermé conditions, the build-up to the race of the weekend was well and truly on. 36 cars headed out onto the track, led by the NAPA #216 machine – giving fans another chance to see their favourite drivers before the race commenced.
As the pace car pulled in and the green flag was waved, the thunderous roar of race engines heightened the excitement and France set off with the rest of the pack in hot pursuit. It was a brilliant start for the NAPA car and as the battle for 2nd intensified, France began to increase his lead. However, the race took an unexpected turn when yellow flags indicated a full course caution, and the race was stopped. Due to the stoppage being within the first 3 laps – a full restart was ordered, and France had it all to do once more.
The race got underway once again with the leading cars all making similar starts. The large crowds erupted in cheers as the drivers jostled for position. France was battling with former World Final winners Tom Harris and Lee Fairhurst and top driver, Mat Newson. Unfortunately, the intense battle took its toll on the front tyre, resulting in a puncture and with the powerful machine now impossible to drive, the race for France was over.
Whilst the early exit from the race was an unfortunate ending, France and the team can feel immensely proud in what they had achieved. Qualifying for the front row of the sport’s largest event is a remarkable achievement and a testament to the team’s capabilities.
“I want to say thank you to the hundreds of people who messaged or came to see us at the track for your support. I was honestly overwhelmed by it” France commented, “You all played a part in making this weekend one to remember.”
Sunday’s World Master’s Race
On Sunday, the World Masters followed, offering another opportunity for France to shine among the impressive field of 100 cars at the venue. Heat 1 got underway with several hard charging international drivers in the mix. The #216 blue and yellow machine delivered an outstanding performance, securing a fantastic 2nd place, which qualified France for the Grand Final later in the day. The glorious sunshine soon made way for torrential rain, presenting challenging conditions for the drivers., but undeterred, France battled through the tricky conditions and finished a credible 8th.
NAPA Racing UK would like to congratulate race winner #84 Tom Harris on becoming a 4-time BriSCA F1 World Champion.
Next up, Odsal Stadium in Bradford on Saturday, 23rd September.
Photo Credit: Colin Casserley
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