Phoenix FM-sponsored racing champion Lochlan Bearman will be making his debut in the Ford Fiesta Championship at Snetterton on Sunday 3rd April.
14-year-old Bearman, who has won five karting championships, is making the move to full circuits in the 170BHP 130mph Fiesta.
“It’s a massive jump” said Bearman. “I’ve got to learn the circuits which seem massive compared to kart tracks, but most significant is the difference between a kart and a car. The speed is not much of a difference – at least not until things go wrong – but the dynamics are entirely different.
“The car is heavy, it rolls in the corners where a kart doesn’t, you need to use gears and engine braking and it’s all about keeping the momentum. The Fiesta is also front wheel drive which has been an interesting challenge as I’ve been used to rear wheel drive.
“Also setting up a car is completely alien to what I understand from the karting so it’s a very steep learning curve. I’ve now had three test sessions and I learn more every time I’m in the car and the speed is coming.
“I’m going to be up against drivers who are experienced in the championship already, and up to 17 years old but I am confident in my own ability and if I can get time in the car I feel it will only be a matter of time before I am at the front.
The Fiesta Championship is held over eight rounds with two races at each round covering circuits such as Silverstone, Brands Hatch and Rockingham.
“I am really excited to be racing in this Championship this year and can’t wait for the season opener,” said Bearman.
Lochlan would be delighted to see anyone at the meeting and encourages you to come and say hello.