Boost problem scuppers Gordon Shedden’s qualifying shot at home

Gordon Shedden’s chances in qualifying were spoiled by a turbo problem for the Honda driver, with the reigning champion having to rely on a time set early in qualifying which would end up good enough for 11th on the grid at his home race in Knockhill.

Shedden, last time out both a race winner and pole-sitter at Snetterton, which has revitalised his championship challenge, will start from 11th on the grid on the circuit he knows best in the Team Dynamics Honda Civic Type-R.

“The boost control was ****** essentially, and it was just jumping and down, so it was pointless to go out there,” said Shedden to TouringCarTimes.

Shedden’s first lap time, which was just under the 52 second mark, was strong enough for 11th on the grid, where one second covered the top 26 on the 1.3 mile circuit, but the Hondas still found themselves languishing near the bottom of the speed traps.

“I went quicker than last year in qualifying and we’re doing it all in the corners, so if we can make the bloody thing go up the straights we’ll be alright,” he added. “I’m last and second last in every speed trap, and if you’re trying to qualify in the top six that’s quite an issue.”