FOX PRIMED FOR FINAL FLING

Martin Colligan and Gideon du Val hope they do not incur similar delays in Lymington after Team Fox was stalled in its departure from Jersey on Thursday.

On the back of its first Grand Prix of the Sea victory in Southampton, Team Fox is returning to Hampshire on Saturday feeling optimistic about its chances of spoiling Grandstand Motor Sports’ end-of-season party. 

“We’ve only missed one podium this season. It’s about getting out there and being in the mix. We’ll be putting pressure on John and Neil into turn one and hope to lead from the front,” said Colligan.

“We are slightly faster down the straights but John’s cornering is close to perfection. The straights are very long in Lymington so it could work in our favour but in open water anything can go wrong. One silly mistake and you can lose two or three boat lengths.”

The former national amateur kickboxing champion admits it isn’t just Grandstand Motor Sports he has to worry about, especially with the influx of top new talent in the 150 Class all pushing to get among the medals.

Another element not easing Colligan’s concerns is Friday’s weather forecast. The wind is predicted to reach 28mph for race testing, which is likely to generate waves up to four metres. However, Saturday's conditions for racing are destined to be much calmer and the stark contrast is sure to play havoc with last minute preparations. Colligan added: “Every team tries to prepare the boat to suit the conditions and uses testing to adjust the boat accordingly. 

“When the weather changes so dramatically overnight that’s when race experience and knowledge of your boat comes into play. The smallest alteration to the boat's weight can make such a huge difference on the water.” 

Colligan concludes that it’s been a “very successful” first year in the P1 SuperStock Championship for Team Fox who still have an outside chance at winning the 150 Class.  “We’ve literally pulled out all of the stops this year. We’re ready for one last big effort in Lymington and hope to finish the season on a high,” added Colligan