Colin Turkington admits that breaking into the top 10 in qualifying was a solid achievement ahead of the Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship’s three races at Knockhill in Scotland.
The Team BMR driver had appeared relatively quiet in the morning hours during the pair of free practice sessions at the Fife circuit, the 66kg success ballast carried in his Volkswagen CC not aiding his progress following two fine wins at Snetterton.
Qualifying was a better display however, Turkington breaking into the top 10 for the first time on Saturday and starting ninth on the grid for tomorrow’s opening race.
Speaking to The Checkered Flag after qualifying, Turkington said: “This circuit is obviously BMW territory. We made the most of it in qualifying though.
“The car was working quite well though, so no complaints. It was a bit of a fight on at times.
“I haven’t really been in the top 10 all day, but we’ve been making improvements with it all the time. I’m happy with the job we’ve done so far.”
The Northern Irishman sits just 16 points behind team-mate Jason Plato in the championship, but has a good opportunity to close that gap with his rival starting down in a personal worst 22nd on the grid.
“We just need three strong finishes tomorrow, but it’s not going to be easy for anybody”, added Turkington.
Asked on whether he would take no prisoners on Sunday in the pack, the reigning champion added: “I think you have to round here, it’s always a fight at Knockhill!”
