Thomas Hylkema is looking forward to returning to Silverstone next weekend for Rounds 17 and 18 of the 2010 Formula Renault UK Championship. With the series making its annual appearance on the World Series by Renault festival support package, it the series second trip to the home of British Motorsport this season, though this time the races will take place on the new Grand Prix Circuit.
Having performed well in testing at the circuit earlier in the year, the Dutch driver is confident ahead of the weekend, which is expected to be attended by over 100,000 spectators, making the event the second biggest Motorsport meeting in the UK behind the FIA Formula One World Championship's British Grand Prix.
The 22 year old enjoyed a top six finish when competing on the National circuit last month and is hoping to repeat the trick this weekend. After a disappointing meeting last time out at Knockhill, the Geothex, TORO and Club Car backed driver is determined to perform well and work his way back up the Formula Renault championship standings.
“Our test at the GP track went well, we finished in the top eight overall which wasn't bad and I did enjoy driving the new layout – it's quite interesting and I'm looking forward to being back there”, said the Manor Competition driver, “We need a good weekend, especially after Knockhill which was disappointing, but I'm sure we can be back in and around the top six, that's a realistic aim.”
The World Series by Renault meeting also carries added significance for Hylkema, as it marks the first time he will compete at the same race meeting as his brother Bart, who competes in the Eurocup Formula Renault 2.0 Championship.
Although regularly competing together in karting, the two have never shared tarmac during their car racing careers. While they won't be competing against each other, the two will meet on circuit during the official pre-event test sessions.
Thomas said: “It's going to be a new adventure for both of us, we did test together in the winter but since we moved up from karting we've never been together on the same race weekend. In the test sessions Formula Renault UK and Eurocup will be on track at the same time so that will add an extra dimension. It'll be interesting to see what happens but I'll be focusing on my own job!”
