Longdon Smart car racer Greg Owens enjoyed a positive weekend at Rockingham after securing a maiden pole position and two podium finishes at the track where he made his debut just a year ago.
The Midland Karting Smart Brabus driver overcame speed and setup issues to claim an unlikely pole, but any issues were soon forgotten as battled with Alan Palmer at the front of the pack in race one.
The two fought a fast-paced contest right until the final corner with Owens narrowly failing to sneak past as Martyn Clatworthy took the victory.
“It was probably the most enjoyable race I’ve experienced,” he said. “It was an epic fight and a race I can be proud of.”
Owens secured the early lead in race two before opening up a sizeable gap which looked to be setting him up for a maiden win.
But Palmer proved to be a thorn in the side again has he nipped past on lap nine.
“I’m surprised to find myself a little disappointed with two podium finishes,” said Owens. “But I’d had high hopes for the weekend.
“I should have won race two but can only blame myself. I made a couple of small errors at just the point where Alan was getting faster. Once he was in my slipstream I could do nothing to prevent him passing. I was frustrated and pushed too hard meaning I lost another place with a half spin.
“This will have to be put down to experience. In my first 12 months I’ve now led, got a fastest lap and a pole position – this first win is now overdue.”
Owens will be exhibiting his race-prepared Smart car with Midland Karting at the Lichfield Cars in the Park event on July 2 and 3.