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Hamilton to make FPA comeback at Brands Hatch |
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Friday, 01 June 2007 |
Race winner Matt recovers from broken leg for DTM rounds
Formula Palmer Audi race winner Matt Hamilton will return to the series at its fourth meeting at Brands Hatch next weekend, just nine weeks after breaking his leg in the opening event at Silverstone.
The 17-year-old won the first round of the 2007 Championship on the Silverstone National circuit on Easter Saturday, but was then involved in a startline crash in Round 2 which left him with a broken right femur. After some intensive rehabilitation and physiotherapy, the Hertfordshire youngster tested at Bedford Autodrome yesterday (Thursday 31st), setting times less than two seconds off the lap record on a damp but drying track.
"It was a really good feeling to be back in the car so soon after the
accident," said Hamilton, who has missed six races as a result of his
injury. "I didn't feel any discomfort while I was driving, and I didn't
have any problems getting in and out of the car. We originally thought
we'd have to wait until Castle Combe (on 15 July) to get back racing,
but to be able to race in front of the crowds at DTM is just fantastic!"
While also facing the challenge of getting back to racing in the highly
competitive FPA field, Matt's fitness will also be put to the test over
three 30-lap races on the Brands Hatch Indy circuit. "It's going to be
tough for me, as obviously my fitness has suffered while I've been out,
not to mention this being the most physical circuit of the season. But
the test was really encouraging, and I think I can get a podium out of
the weekend, and be back winning at Combe."
As far as the championship is concerned, Matt has acknowledged that he
is out of the running for the overall crown, but aims to win as many of
the remaining 12 races as he can to prove his raw talent, as well as to
make the title contenders fight for every point. "The guys at the top
of the table will have to start thinking about points and the
championship, while I'm just going out there to win races. I can't win
the title now, but I know I could have, and I'm going out for the rest
of the season to prove that."
Matt Hamilton's Formula Palmer Audi racing return at Brands Hatch next
weekend is part of the stunning DTM touring car meeting on the Indy
circuit. Advance tickets are available from £25 by calling 0870 950
9000 or visiting www.brandshatch.co.uk.
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