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SA lad Alibhai wraps up Ginetta Junior year on top

South African youngster Aqil Alibhai put the finishing touches to his rookie British Ginetta Junior season with a splendid race win and third overall at the weekend’s Brands Hatch Winter Series. Driving as part of the Elite Racing team for the first time this weekend, Alibhai qualified seventh for the first race before bringing it home sixth and 12th in Saturday’s heats. He qualified second and third on Sunday and went on to win and take second in the races.

“Wow, what a great way to end off my first year of car racing with a first international victory,” a delighted Aqil explained. Conditions were very tricky in qualifying on Sunday morning, but I managed to set the second quickest lap. “We lost few places in the first corner of the first race, but I managed to grab those places back on the next lap. The track was wet and greasy, but I put my head down and set a series of purple sectors to close the gap on the guy in front.

“I found a way past and went on to take a tight victory. “What a feeling — to win in those conditions is a huge achievement for us. “This really was a landmark weekend! We started third on a wet circuit for the last race and hung on for second after a safety car and eventually a red flag. “This weekend is the highlight of my entire season and we are truly humbled and grateful to have raced a full season in the UK. 

“To my team, Max Coates and James Breakell and the whole Breakell Racing family, thank you for all the effort you put in this year. “We will never forget the memories we made along the way. “We have signed with Elite Motorsport, who ran us this weekend, for the 2022 season and we are delighted with a great start. “It’s been a long hard year based in the UK — now we cannot wait the get home and enjoy our South African summer while we prepare for a thrilling 2022. “Can't wait!” 

ENDS

Issued on behalf of Aqil Alibhai

What:Ginetta Junior Winter Series Report
Where:Brands Hatch, England
When:13-14 November 2021
Community:International

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