7th May Rockingham Test

After battling with electrical gremlins at Silverstone, the Newbridge built 987 Boxster S finally had a chance to stretch its legs at Rockingham Motor Speedway. After a late winter/spring build the 987 proved to be reluctant to take to the track. Electrical problems with the immobiliser and ECU caused disappointment at Silverstone ( A credit to Porsche's increased security levels however!) - With the issues finally ironed out the first true shakedown could take place with new driver Guillaume Gruchet at the wheel. A torrential downpour on the oval meant that outings where limited to practically sighting laps – still this was enough to test the function of the car, engine, brakes and steering all co-operating. Late morning saw the rain fall reduce which allowed some more spirited driving and allowed Guillaume to get a feel for the handling. Pressing on a little too much too soon overcame the Toyo 888s, a fantastic performing tyre in all conditions with the exception of standing water, and resulted in an excursion to one of Rockingham's many gravel traps – not such bad news as the time spent in the pits removing the gravel allowed the weather to do a 180 degree flip and the car went out mid-afternoon to a dry track without a cloud in sight (almost) . The afternoon saw no further incidents and allowed Guillaume to get valuable seat time and we were able to start to dial in the car to his requirements. A successful days testing, in what is known to be typical British weather, will certainly stand Guillaume in good stead for the 'Summer' of racing ahead.