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RACE REPORT

  Pikes Peak International Hillclimb

Colorado Springs - 19 July 2009

Team: Mach 2 Racing

Car: Ford RS200

Number: 200

Class: Unlimited

Driver: Mark Rennison, British, Darlington

Born: 1963

Titles: British Rallycross Champion 1987 & 1988

Race time: 12 minutes 11.56 seconds

Positions: Class: 3 rd of 4 Overall: 16 th of 145

Team Quotes:

Alan Greenwood, Team Principle

“Well we came here confident that we could break that 10 minute barrier that we have all been talking about for the last 10 years. We didn't make it this time but thankfully neither did anyone else! We will be back next year”.

“On the first day of practice we had an engine failure. The boys worked through the night, stripped the engine to find a dropped valve, damaged piston and head. Spares were dispatched from England and on Friday the engine was rebuilt. In a quick test everything felt and looked good. We started the race feeling upbeat and Mark was instantly on the pace, but braking for those lower hairpins cooked the brakes. Mark did the best he could and I'm pleased that he brought the car to the summit in one piece”.

“I know we have the right formula of driver, car, engine, handling, tyres and, of course, engineers and technicians. We know what we now need to do and we will come back next year stronger, wiser and even more competitive”

“Lastly, a special thanks for trade support from Garrett, Sparco and Avon Tyres. Personal thanks to the team back home and the boys here who worked crazy hours to get the car to the startline . One of the joys of this event is the local support from the people of Colorado Springs who always make our brief visit here so pleasant and enjoyable - long may it continue”

Mark Rennison, Race Driver

“I was exhausted, that was the most mentally and physically demanding 12 miles that I have ever driven. It was my first time at Pikes Peak and the first time that I have raced at high altitude and that alone certainly adds a new dimension to required levels of fitness and stamina”

“I started well and knew that we were on the pace but as we climbed and braked at hairpin after hairpin I started to feel brake fade. About a third of the way up it was severe and I had to back off - I did not want to arrive at the next corner at 140 mph to discover that I had no brakes. I nursed the car to the top and finished with a reasonable time and without incident.”

“There are lots of modern hi-tech brake systems for us to try, carbon, ceramic and so on. We are confident that we can find the right solution for our next attempt”

“The one memory that I will always cherish is the chequered flag at the summit and the overpowering feeling of achievement and relief. I've fallen in love with this event. As a driver it demands so much from you and I cannot wait to come back”

 more info

For further information, and hi res photographs please contact:

Barry Reynolds

T: 01279 730134

E: barry@wiz-email.com

Last modified: July 21, 2009