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The trio of drivers that form Team Hardline fought ferocious battles in the final leg at Donington

Team Hardline is a newly established racing outfit that’s taking part in the 2023 season of the Caterham Seven 270R Championship with three talented drivers: Charlie Lower, Louise Deason and David Rooke.

The team is using EBC Brakes Racing’s RP-X™ motorsport brake pads on the front axles of all three Caterham 270R race cars, as well as EBC Brakes’ Bluestuff pads (David and Charlie) and Yellowstuff pads (Louise) on the rear axles.

Following a whirlwind of a season with all three drivers showing incredible skill and determination, and both Lower and Rooke in close reach of the overall championship podiums, the final race weekend was recently held at Derbyshire’s Donington Park Circuit, where there was plenty more thrills and spills from the team.

Read how it all unfolded below in the team’s own words.

Charlie’s Championship Chase

“Charlie, the team’s ace driver, entered the weekend with just a two-point gap separating him from his rival in the championship hunt (fresh from his guest appearance in the Caterham 420R championship at Silverstone). His qualifying performance immediately set the tone, as he claimed the pole position with a display of blistering speed and precision.

“Race 1 seemed destined to be his moment of glory. Charlie led the first half of the race with a commanding presence until an unfortunate mechanical failure struck, with his gear lever snapping at a blistering 80mph. Miraculously, Charlie managed to nurse his ailing car back to the pits, preserving his chance to fight another day.

“In Race 2, with his championship hopes hanging by a thread, Charlie started from the last position, P29. He embarked on a remarkable journey, showcasing masterful skill and unwavering determination. In a breath-taking display of overtaking prowess, he stormed through the field, securing the lead in just 10 laps and setting the fastest lap in the process. Victory seemed within grasp until a dramatic collision with his championship rival forced Charlie to retire due to a broken radiator.

“By Race 3, the championship was mathematically out of reach, but Charlie raced with undeterred spirit. He once again claimed the fastest lap and finished in P3, a testament to his tenacity and talent.”

David’s Podium Pursuit

“David Rooke had his sights set on securing third place in the championship, battling against one other driver. Qualifying in P5, he showed his determination right from the start.

“Race 1 saw David fighting valiantly in the top 10, but a broken 4th gear left him vulnerable on the straights. Despite this setback, he displayed resilience and finished a commendable P8.

“Race 2 brought redemption as the Hardline Race Team’s head mechanic, Dan, worked his magic and installed a new gearbox. David swiftly climbed into the top 4, only to be pushed wide into the gravel by a guest driver. Despite the setback, David managed to fight his way back and finished in P15.

“With unwavering resolve, David secured P3 overall in the championship, a remarkable achievement that underscored his skill and the team’s dedication.”

Louise’s Determined Drive

“Louise Deason faced adversity with a machinal failure during qualifying, which hindered her ability to showcase her full potential. However, she persevered through the challenges.

“In Race 1, Louise drove admirably despite her concerns, finishing a commendable P20. As her confidence grew, she continued to fight hard in Race 2, securing P18.

“Race 3, unfortunately, turned chaotic for Louise as she was spun out on the first corner, disrupting her rhythm. She faced a daunting nine-second gap to the competitors ahead, ultimately finishing in P22.”

Celebrating a Season of Growth

“The season had been an immense learning curve for both the drivers and the Hardline Race Team. The team expressed immense pride in their drivers’ achievements throughout the year. Their remarkable performance was made possible by the unwavering support of their sponsor, EBC Brakes.

“With two drivers finishing P2 and P3 overall respectively in the championship, the Hardline Race Team are immensely proud of challenges, triumphs, and incredible displays of skill throughout the year.”

Connect with Team Hardline for more news and information:

RP-X™ Track/Race Pads

Following the hugely successful launch of RP-1™, EBC Brakes Racing increases its motorsport brake pad range with the introduction of our latest ultra-high-performance track & race material, RP-X™.

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Bluestuff NDX Brake Pads

Bluestuff NDX is a high-friction sport and race pad that now has R90 approval on almost all fitments for the EU and is therefore totally street legal. Ideal for road-going sports cars and club-level racing events.

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