The sixth round of the Caterham Graduates Racing Series brought Alpha 7 to the picturesque Anglesey Circuit, where the team continued to shine across both the 135 and 150 classes. The weekend delivered a mix of weather and track conditions, testing the drivers’ adaptability and car setups.
Friday was warm, and the track conditions were tricky with limited grip, making the testing sessions challenging. Drivers found that running new tyres gave them an advantage, as managing overheating and tyre wear became critical. The team worked hard to fine-tune setups in preparation for the weekend’s races.
Jamie Ellwood entered the weekend with a chance to secure the 2024 CGRC 150 class championship—and he didn’t disappoint. He dominated the weekend with three pole positions, three fastest laps and three first-place finishes! Cementing his status as the new 2024 champion. His car, built over the winter by Alpha 7, performed flawlessly, and Jamie declared it the best Caterham he’s ever driven.
Race one saw Jamie pull away early, leaving a fierce battle between Will Stilwell and Max Haynes in his wake. Stilwell edged out Haynes in the final moments, but Jamie remained untouchable at the front. Jamie’s consistent pace throughout the weekend earned him another two victories in races two and three, bringing his season total to nine wins and seven fastest laps. A monumental achievement for both him and the Alpha 7 team.
Matthew Willoughby also had a solid weekend, securing a podium finish after battling consistently at the sharp end of the grid. Ian Anderson, had his best weekend of the season, making up four places in one race and finishing P9, followed by a P6 and another top-10 finish in the final race.
Ed Benton, racing in his second event, continued to impress by collecting two more signatures for his racing license. With only two more needed, he’s on the brink of removing his novice cross. Ed travelled to Anglesey for the first time, having only ever driven 270 laps in the simulator. Ed fought hard throughout the weekend, swapping positions with his rivals and setting a personal best lap time, a full second quicker than his qualifying pace. His rapid improvement is a testament to his growing confidence and skill.
Sunday morning greeted the 135 class with a damp circuit for their second race, creating an unpredictable mix of weather conditions throughout the day. Although the skies threatened rain, the track dried out, keeping everyone guessing until the last lap.
Sean Cronin made his debut for Alpha 7, with support from his daughter Niamh. He had an impressive weekend, gaining seven places in his first race and securing P7 in his last race, thanks to some thrilling overtakes. Meanwhile, Amanda Anderson battled back after a tough second race where she spun due to contact. Despite the setback, she finished the weekend strong with an 11th-place finish, engaging in some exciting on-track scraps.
Sean Crellin, back for his second event with Alpha 7, also performed well, overcoming worn tyres and securing some strong overtaking moves. His tenacity ensured a solid finish, capping off a weekend filled with action.
The Anglesey round marked a milestone for Alpha 7, with Jamie Ellwood’s championship win and stellar performances across the board. The team now sets its sights on Donington for the final round of the season, ready to push for more podiums and personal bests. Well done to everyone, and let’s bring the same energy and success to the next race!
For those inspired by our drivers’ achievements, Alpha 7 offers personalised driver development programmes to help you take the next step in your motorsport journey. Contact us to learn how we can help you hit the track and achieve your racing goals.
