Chelmsford-based single-seater racing driver Neil Doran gained his first podium of the season by finishing in third place in round seven of the Formula Zip Championship held at Snetterton race track on Sunday.

The sweltering temperatures and double header (two races) schedule set the pace for a tough day's work.

Doran had a turbulent day after a technical problem in qualifying left him starting from sixth place for race one.

Achieving a fantastic start to the first race of the day, Doran was running a quick fourth when the car in front spun taking them both out of the race.

Unperturbed, Doran stayed focused and aided the mechanics to make repairs to the car against the clock, ready for the second race

The race incident left Doran starting race two from the back of the grid.

Focused and determined, Doran sliced through the pack with fantastic displays of skill and resilience

It was a hard and long 16-lap race, not made easy with a five-lap battle with fourth placed driver David Robinson

Doran said: "This is a really good result because I have suffered a bit of bad luck in the first few rounds and not been able to show my true form, but this result has showed I can run at the front."

Doran's title sponsor KF Concept were delighted with the result and were there to congratulate him The team are now looking forward to more outstanding results as Doran heads to Brands Hatch for the eighth round on September 7

Published Thursday, August 7, 2003

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