21st August 2023
Rounds 10 and 11 of this year’s TCR UK championship at Silverstone on August 19th & 20th saw Matrix Motosport’s Jeff Alden return to the grid for global specification touring cars for the first time since the end of 2019. Driving a DW Racing prepared Astra TCR, Jeff showed impressive pace against many of the more experienced drivers, finishing the first race 15th out of 21 cars.
Having competed in a Civic Cup for the past two seasons, the switch to a TCR car after four-years was always going to provide a steep learning curve. However, successful pre-event testing saw Jeff adapt to the more powerful and sophisticated machine straight away and reported he felt extremely comfortable with the Astra’s handling and increased performance to that of his more familiar Honda.
A considered approach in qualifying meant that a battle through the field was on the cards and with confidence and consequently, lap times improving as the 25-minute race unfolded, Jeff was able to climb six places by the time the chequered flag emerged after 25 laps. Unfortunately, a clutch issue denied the team of a place on the grid for race two. However, Jeff came away from the event satisfied with the outcome having enjoyed the experience:
“Whilst it’s a little daunting, it’s also very exciting to join such a highly competitive grid comprising some of the best touring car drivers and teams in the UK. My aim was to gain as much experience as I could, keep out of trouble, achieve a reasonable result and enjoy it – and that’s exactly what happened.
“I was very pleased with the progress made, which sets things up nicely for my next TCR races at Donington Park on 9th & 10th September. Depending on how they go, we’ll then be looking at a full season in 2024. Exciting times ahead!”
Matrix Motorsport’s 2023 programme is supported by Matrix Group Services, HVAC FM Recruitment, SEE Services, Gemstones Consultancy, MML Maintenance Management, Inspired Media and RPM Promotions.
ENDS