Josh Files has moved to within three points of the Renault UK Clio Cup championship lead after securing second and third place finishes during Rounds Five and Six of the campaign at Thruxton.
After agonisingly missing out on pole position in qualifying, the Norwich-based racer converted his front-row start in Saturday’s opening race into a second place finish.
It wasn’t easy for him though, a slow start for the Team Pyro man meaning he was swallowed by the chasing pack on the run through Allard, emerging from the complex down in sixth place. A great drive saw him pick his way through the field though, with strong late pace seeing him close on the leader and narrowly miss out on a maiden victory.
Sunday’s live televised encounter saw the 22 year old on the front row once again, however another poor start saw him fall to fourth. Quickly back into the podium positions, Files latched himself onto the bumper of Lee Pattison ahead and looked to find a way past, but with no clear opportunity presenting itself, he settled for third.
“We came to Thruxton to close the gap in the championship by racking up the points and that’s exactly what we’ve done,” said a delighted Files. “We have been quick as well as consistent, taking four podiums from as many races.
“To be honest, the Brands Hatch Indy and Donington Park circuits were going to be the most difficult ones for me, so I’m looking forward to the next rounds. I always go well at Oulton Park, I love Croft and Snetterton is my home circuit. We should be able to keep up this momentum.”
