Investchem F1600 rookie KC Ensor-Smith participated in the penultimate round of the national single-seater championship at the Killarney International Raceway this past weekend, finishing sixth overall.
While the Witbank teenager showed a strong pace throughout Friday’s three practice sessions, he qualified in seventh with the top ten drivers within half a second of the pole sitter. At the same time, he displayed impressive driving skills and maintained a consistently strong performance throughout the opening race. However, competitors’ lap times were very close and made passing difficult, and Ensor-Smith finished in the same position he started in seventh.
The second race would see the quadruple national karting champion hit from behind in Turn 1 on the opening lap, causing damage to the rear suspension of his Mygale F1600. Despite the damage, Ensor-Smith was able to continue to finish eighth.
“Not too disappointed with our weekend despite the results. We had a good pace in the car, and the times were very close in the end. I would have liked to qualify higher up the grid, but it’s the best I could do. The pace was there in race trim, but again, the competition was split by only a few tenths, making it challenging. Unfortunately, in Race 2, I took a thump up the rear after the start, which ruined my race. We just had a look and can see that the suspension is damaged. I am very grateful for the opportunity and would like to thank my sponsors for their support,” stated Ensor-Smith.
Ensor-Smith thanks African Heating, Vitro Frameless and Master Stairs for their support.
The final round of the championship resumes on 13-14 October at Zwartkops Raceway.
Published by: Motorsport Fanatix
Picture Caption: KC Ensor-Smith
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