Hunt - The hard work is just about to begin

For racing drivers, winter is a very frustrating time of year. It’s not that relaxing is a chore, but to be on the limit of adhesion down Paddock Hill Bend at Brands Hatch is far more appealing.

However, this winter has been slightly different for me.

I entered the Radical SR1 Cup in 2018 with a three-year plan to become Champion, and I’m absolutely determined to end my third season on target at the top of the standings, to progress to the next phase of my motorsport career.

I’m leaving no stone unturned and stepped up my off-track efforts, firstly by forming a new fitness partnership with Performance Elite and expert sports conditioning coach Tom Archer.

Tom works predominantly with elite sports personalities, including ex-Formula 1 racer and current IndyCar star Max Chilton, and he has a deep understanding of how physically and mentally demanding motor racing can be, and how to not only sustain a career, but progress and succeed.

In the New Year we began working through a tailored strength and conditioning plan that’s designed to radically enhance my on and off-track performances, and Tom is certainly putting me through my paces!

My performance markers are based on the stringent tests and parameters set by car manufacturers when choosing candidates for their young driver programmes, such as the McLaren Automotive Driver Development Programme (DDP) or the Aston Martin Racing Driver Academy.

As a result, the gallons of blood, sweat and tears will not only ensure I’m primed for the 2020 Radical season, but also the next step of my career in GT cars; these are traditionally stripped-down racing variants of roadcars with roll cages and big wings for increased downforce.

However, if I’m to progress, it’s essential for me to create partnerships and gain sponsorship, and I’m really enjoying making new connections with forward-thinking business leaders, particularly at local and regional breakfast clubs and networking events.

I have a frontline role within my family’s property businesses that cover Sussex, and daily interaction with the public and entrepreneurs from a wide range of sectors has given me an understanding of what companies need, how to represent them and deliver a high return on investment.

Motorsport is a unique and exciting platform and that shows while talking to entrepreneurs, who are always intrigued about my racing and the potential opportunities surrounding it. One thing’s for sure, it’s the fastest moving billboard you’ll ever see.

Between work, my search for sponsorship and my fitness programme with Tom, I’ve had very little time for anything else. Beer and curry nights with friends are certainly out of the question.

News is circulating that my closest rivals have begun intense on-track testing programmes in their cars, and that’s more than enough to keep me disciplined and focused, but there have also been quite a few exciting developments in recent months to further increase my motivation.

I was immensely proud when I received a letter confirming that I have been selected for the prestigious Motorsport UK Academy Squad last month.

It was completely unexpected, but to be recognised for my achievements, ambitions and potential by British motorsport’s governing body was a great feeling.

The Motorsport UK Academy is a world-class development programme that lasts two years and consists of several specialist workshops, educational sessions and money-can’t buy events and experiences that will give me all the tools needed to progress and develop, both personally and professionally.

It’s a great way to start the year, but the hard work is just about to begin and I can’t wait to get started.

They say Easter is for new beginning’s and that’s certainly true in 2020, as my renewed Radical SR1 Cup title assault begins at the picturesque Oulton Park circuit in Cheshire over the Bank Holiday weekend.

Once again, the SR1 Cup holds a spot on the British GT Championship support bill, presenting aspiring sportscar racers like me with an opportunity to catch the eye of influential figures within some of the world’s most prestigious manufacturers and high-profile racing teams.

The goal is simple – win and bag maximum championship points, and then take the biggest trophy away at the end of the year.