ROOKIE racing driver Matt Hammond continues his quest for the MINI Challenge title.

The 35-year-old from Salisbury, pictured right, who raised £30,000 over four years to pursue his racing dream, lies in fifth place after two race meetings at Donnington Park and Brands Hatch.

“I couldn’t have hoped for a better start to the championship,” said Hammond.

“I have always been up the front battling for the top positions and to reach the podium three times already is fantastic. I have a great team with Excelr8 and the guys around me have made sure the car is the best it can be.”

The optimistic driver has been racing in the championship, which has 20 races over seven rounds at UK racing circuits, for just over a month. The next MINI Challenge is at Snetterton race track in Norfolk, before the competitors head to Oulton Park, Castle Combe and Silverstone before returning to Brands Hatch for the final race meeting in September.

He added: “The title could be in reach if I keep focused and the car remains in top condition.”

Find out more at www.matthammond-motorsport.co.uk.