Recently-crowned 2013 Renault UK Clio Cup champion Josh Files got his first taste of British Touring Car Championship machinery during an outing with Airwaves Racing yesterday (29 October).
The test, a prize for his Clio success from tyre manufacturer Dunlop, saw the Norwich-based racer get behind the wheel of one of the team’s Ford Focus ST’s at his local circuit, Snetterton.
Under the tutelage of 2006 Clio Cup champion and current BTCC star Tom Onslow-Cole, Files got himself acquainted with the Motorbase Performance-prepared Focus during a short sighter run in the morning, before embarking on a full race simulation in changeable conditions later in the day.
“I think the test went very well and it was great fun,” said Files. “The Focus was really interesting and, while it felt a lot bigger and faster than the Clio Cup cars I’m used to, I had a good feel for the car and I ended the day feeling positive about the whole experience.
“Motorbase seemed pleased with my progression over the course of the day. It’s a great team that consists of amazing people and somehow manages to strike a perfect balance between fun and professionalism. I can’t thank them enough.
“It’s a dream to compete in the BTCC and I can definitely see myself racing touring cars, especially after yesterday’s test. It only served to heighten my determination to continue developing my career in motorsport.”
Files emphatically sealed the UK Clio Cup title with ten podium finishes, including two race wins, over the season, and he could be set to make it a championship double this weekend, heading into the final rounds of the Eurocup Clio Championship at Motorland Aragon with the series points lead.
