By Fred Warner
Eighteen-year-old racing rookie Will Orton dominated a rain lashed Brands Hatch circuit to keep his lead in the JCW Mini Challenge Cup.
After an impressive debit at Donington Park, Will was under pressure to repeat his success.
And he didn’t disappoint – breaking records on the way to the podium.
He highlighted his talent by topping the final practice session before qualifying third in wet conditions.
Despite the rising expectations from his team, Orton remained focused and determined.
During the first race, held in heavy rain, he climbed from third to second place.
However, the leader proved too far ahead.
The second race of the weekend saw Orton starting behind pole.
Pushing hard throughout the race, he eventually claimed first place, securing his second win of the season.
The third race featured a reverse grid, placing Will in the sixth position.
The pressure mounted as the track dried, and the sun came out.
Will’s team expressed confidence that he could clinch the win, and he didn’t disappoint.
Orton moved from sixth to third after just three turns, then skilfully navigated from third to first place to secure another victory.
He set the fastest lap in both the second and third races and broke a Mini Challenge record in the second race with the biggest-ever winning margin in the cup’s history.
Will said: “Started sixth, good start, went round the outside of turns one and two, which was brave and took the lead after a few more laps.
“I hope the cameras caught it; it was a good weekend!”
Will’s team, along with his ever-present and supportive parents Liz and Pete, from Flintham, Nottinghamshire, were amazed by his ability to handle the challenging Mini JCW car and extract the best performance from it.
With two more wins under his belt, Will Orton extends his lead in the championship, and all eyes will be on him as the series moves to Snetterton in two weeks for the next race weekend.
See the journey on Will Orton’s YouTube channel here:
