Spalding race ace Andy Molsom admitted he had exceeded expectations after securing a third place finish in the Caterham Graduates Championship.
Molsom had travelled to Spa-Francorchamps in Belgium for the final two rounds of the championship with an outside chance of landing the overall trophy.
However, after enduring mixed fortunes in the finale in his quest for honours, the Spalding optometrist was delighted with his final placing.
He said: “It’s been a great year with some close racing.
“I have achieved my aims and more – by winning three races, getting three pole positions and setting two new lap records.
“I never expected to be in the hunt for the championship, but thanks to Rockey Racing for the excellent preparation and support through the year we have had an amazing time with great friends on and off the track.”
The final two rounds were held in uncharacteristically dry track sessions and, with 63 cars on track, qualifying was interesting with five classes of Caterhams.
Despite not really getting a good slipstream off the faster class cars, Molsom qualified third in class for both races.
Saturday’s opening race was eventful from the off with Molsom’s class fighting with the faster two classes for position.
After being tagged by an ambitious overtake into La Source hairpin at the beginning of the third lap, Molsom dropped off the back of second place in class.
Molsom pushed hard to catch up again after this incident. A safety car later on brought the whole pack of cars together again and the restart saw one last race lap.
After a hectic lap, Molsom caught title rival Edward Benson, but was too late to challenge for second place, taking third at the chequered flag.
This meant that Benson had done enough to take the championship win.
Sunday’s race was marred by a recurring electrical problem with the engine which eventually prevented Molsom from finishing the race.
He continued: “Spa-Francorchamps is a great circuit – one of the best I have raced on.
“There are some epic corners, such as Eau Rouge, which are awe-inspiring when racing side by side.
“It’s always a great weekend and a great place to get together socially to finish the year.”
