CHAMPION NEAL LOOKING FORWARD TO "ELECTRIC" KNOCKHILL
ATMOSPHERE
Reigning Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Champion Matt Neal
says while his record at the Knockhill circuit isn’t
one of his best, the Scottish track still has a place in his
heart because of the unique reaction from the race day crowds.
Team Halfords driver Neal will arrive at Knockhill on 3 September
leading the standings and on course for an historic second
consecutive title. And he says the noise from the spectator
banks around the Fife venue creates an atmosphere that the
drivers in Britain’s top motor racing series probably
don’t experience anywhere else during the season.
“Knockhill is just very different from anywhere else
we go,” said Neal. “You’re either going
uphill or downhill or popping over the kerbs. There’s
nowhere to take a rest.
“It’s where the cars are probably at their most
spectacular all year and it’s also the circuit where
the fans are closest to the track. It doesn’t matter
if they’re cheering or booing you – it’s
electric inside the car. Even when you’re concentrating
on the race, you can still feel the roar.
“A good spot for the spectators is the first corner,
where you can see down into the next series of bends and up
to the chicane which is another great spot because the cars
get airborne.
”I’d also pick out the hairpin as a good place
to watch – you’re very close to the action there.
It’s just a great track all the way around for the crowds.”
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