Mat Jackson marks 250 races in style at Snetterton

Mat Jackson celebrated his 250th BTCC race in style at Snetterton, but a win to round off a milestone weekend was just out of reach thanks to a former team-mate.

The Motorbase Performance man racked up eighth and sixth-place finishes in the opening two races in Norfolk, before pushing hard in vain to pass Team BMR’s Aron Smith for first in the finale.

Nevertheless, Jackson still declared himself happy with second, and also took time to reflect on a long and fruitful career in the series.

Speaking to TouringCarTimes about his battle with Smith, Jackson said: “He drove a clever race. He knew where his strengths were – it was in straight-line speed.

“All he’s got to do is back us up at the start of each straight, and that was it. He did what he did with the tools he’s got – we’d all do the same.

“It’s frustrating, because I think on an overall lap in clear air, we would have been quicker. But P2 is a good result for the team.

“I think it’s been a good weekend. We’ve gone forward in every race, we’ve picked up points, and we’ve maintained things in the championship. We can’t complain – there’s been a lot worse weekends!”

Asked about the chances of taking a win in the remaining races, Jackson added: “We’re trying our hardest with what we’ve got. If anything, we need the regulations to ease up in our favour a little bit to take the next step.

“We’re getting there with the chassis in terms of cornering, but we’re struggling a bit with the regulations. TOCA regulates how fast each engine goes.”

It was 13 years since Jackson first appeared on the BTCC radar, driving a first generation Ford Focus in the long-since defunct Production class.

He returned in 2007 off the back of a dominant title in the SEAT Cupra Championship, taking his maiden win at Oulton Park in an ex-Andy Priaulx BMW 320si. Another 18 wins have followed since, with a best finish of second in the championship in 2008.

Looking back on his time in the series, Jackson said: “I didn’t even think we’d get two, let alone 250! It’s been great – we’ve had some awesome times and some great wins.

“It’s one of the best championships in the world, and they do a good job with driving standards.”

Asked to pick a highlight, he added: “The first win was great – but there’s been loads. Taking eight podiums on the trot with Chevrolet was a great time too.”