A PODIUM finish in the opening round of the Dunlop Touring Car Trophy series made for a successful weekend for Swindon-based HMS Racing.

Competing at Oulton Park International Circuit, Simon Belcher’s team – led by driver Alex Day – finished race one in second place despite a late collision with Henry Neal and Ollie Taylor.

There was no such luck for HMS in race two, though. With another podium spot on the cards, an excursion and subsequent retirement denied Day a second podium finish of the weekend.

While disappointed with the finish, team principal Belcher was still pleased with the podium finish in race one – particularly in light of the team’s lengthy winter, which saw them drop out of the British Touring Car Championships.

He said: “It’s obviously great for the team to be back out on track in touring car action and fantastic to be helping a young driver like Alex to get the most out of a BTCC-spec car.

“Race one on Saturday was the first time Alex has done a proper standing start since his time in Ginetta Juniors and he did a really solid job, and raced well too.

“We’re all delighted with the second place in race one, the highest placed BTCC car, and only a small mistake in race two prevented Alex from doubling up with another podium.

“It was unfortunate, but just one of those things and something he’ll learn from.

“It’s been a great start, very good experience, and we’re all looking forward to Donington now.”

Rounds three and four of the inaugural Dunlop Touring Car Trophy will take place on June 22-23 at Donington Park in Leicestershire.