Wainman misses out on top spot (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Wainman misses out on top spot

7:53pm Sunday 5th September 2010 in

• Skip social links
• Print
• Email
•  

Silsden racer Frankie Wainman Junior had to settle for second place in a dramatic formula one stock car world final at Coventry on Saturday night.

Wainman lined up on the front row of the grid alongside arch-rival Andy Smith, from Rochdale.

On a heavily-watered track, both drivers slid wide on turn one, allowing three other cars to overtake on the racing line.

Smith regained traction more quickly than Wainman and, in a spectacular manoeuvre on turn two, barged the three cars that had overtaken out of his way to take the lead and allow Wainman into second.

Sensing his opportunity, Wainman attempted to put the bumper in on Smith on turn three.

But the move backfired as Smith held off the challenge and was able to power away into the lead, while Wainman lost momentum and slipped back down the field.

In the remainder of the race, Wainman fought bravely to work his way back up to second but was never close enough to launch another attack on Smith, who retained the world championship.