BROMSGROVE racing driver James Cater aims to mix it up with the big boys in this year’s Ravenol Formula Vee Championship.
Last month, Cater drove his 1300cc Sheane around Donington Park to claim a 14th place finish in the first race before falling foul of engine failure in the second.
A month later at Brands Hatch, despite starting in 21st position in both races, Cater claimed two fifth place finishes in the Class B section.
In his first race, Cater had to fend off some solid attacking from behind following a poor start but he eventually pulled clear to finish in 18th spot overall.
Cater started the second race much better but his progress was halted following a red flag for an incident towards the back.
On the restart, Cater pushed the fourth place Class B car all the way but just as he was about to make his move, the chequered flag came out to secure his second fifth place in Class B and 17th overall.
“Even though I was down on power, I drove really well and put alot into the car to get the best possible result,” Cater said.
“Our car is only worth £3,000 and those in front of us have cars worth close to £30,000 so it’s hard to push up the grid.
“At Brands Hatch I was fighting in a normal position for this car but I felt like I should have finished higher up the order.
“It makes it fun where you’re the underdog and I am sure we can get up those heights.”
Cater returns to racing on May 21 and 22 at the Crofts Circuit, North Yorkshire, and ahead of next month’s race, his 1300cc Sheane is expected to have a new rear shock absorber as well as an engine running on full power.
Despite having never raced at Crofts, Cater is hopeful of high finish overall.
“The only time I have raced at the track was on computer games so I’m not sure if it will still be the same,” he said.
“I’ll be watching videos on YouTube to learn the track, when to break and the perfect lines to take.
“I’m really looking forward to it – Crofts looks an amazing track.”
