Formula Renault UK 2.0 Championship outfit Atech Reid GP enjoyed their best overall team result of the season in Round Seven of the 2011 campaign at Oulton Park, before a tough Round Eight saw two of its drivers have an unfortunate collision.
The first race saw lead driver Tio Ellinas continue his championship charge with his seventh consecutive podium of the season with third, while team-mates Oscar King and Dan Wells gained two places apiece early on to take fifth and sixth respectively, the first time the team's three drivers all finished in the top six.
The second race saw Ellinas run in fifth for the majority of the race, before gaining a valuable place on the final lap to finish fourth for more vital championship points. For King and Wells, an unfortunate coming together on lap two at Island caused damage damaged to both, which they both eventually retired from.
Ellinas said: “I had a good start in both races. In race one I couldn't make up enough to pass the car ahead on new tyres so settled for third but in the second race, although it was tough because he was closing the door, I managed to pass to get fourth. It's not been such a good weekend for me in that I missed a podium and the championship gap has opened, so I need to win next time out.”
King commented: “I had by far my best result so far in race one. I got a good start and managed to get to fifth and pull away, maintaining the gap. My pace has improved and I'm looking forward to Croft. My confidence is up and I felt quite comfortable with fifth so now I'm looking for a podium.”
Wells reflected: “In race one I got a good start and a clean first lap after passing Dan Cammish. When Jordan King went off I was in 6th to give a good result for me and the team to have three Atechs in the top six. I'm really really happy how the team's working. My pace is improving and it's only going to get better.”
Team Principal David Hayle concluded: “It's been a strong weekend for the team and it's good that Dan and Oscar are gaining in confidence. With the damp off-line it was going to be difficult to gain places, so all three drivers moving up the order is very encouraging.”
