A racing driver from Oxfordshire who competes despite a disability has achieved the most significant result of his career after clinching his first overall podium finish in the Britcar Endurance Championship.
Julian McBride, who lives in Woodcote, crossed the line in third place overall together with guest driver Phil Keen, a British GT specialist, having fought back from 19th on the starting grid at Snetterton.
The achievement came during his fourth appearance in Britcar’s top GT division and follows his first GT class podium at Oulton Park during the current season.
McBride began competing in motorsport in 2016, five years after a spinal injury altered the direction of his life.
Prior to that point, he had never taken part in motorsport of any kind.
Since his debut, he has claimed two endurance racing titles and now contests Britcar’s flagship GT category.
Although he qualified in 19th position for the 90-minute contest, McBride delivered an impressive opening stint, advancing through the pack and positioning the Geoff Steel Racing BMW strongly before handing control to Keen for the final laps.
A well-planned race strategy enabled the duo to take third place overall and second in the GT class, handing McBride the most important achievement of his racing career so far.
According to McBride, he was not satisfied with practice or qualifying sessions. He was aware that both the vehicle and himself possessed additional speed, meaning 19th on the grid did not reflect where he believed they belonged. Once the race commenced, everything began falling into place. He found an excellent rhythm, the car improved progressively throughout his stint, and he experienced some highly entertaining battles. By the time he handed over the BMW, he believed they were in a strong position for a positive outcome and had complete confidence in Keen. Sharing a vehicle was an entirely new experience for him, as he had never previously raced as part of a driver partnership, so there was considerable information to absorb. Having the opportunity to pass the car to someone of Keen’s experience and observe his work proved an excellent learning experience. Watching Keen bring the BMW home on the overall podium was an extraordinary feeling. Standing on the overall podium was tremendous, though it also reflected the efforts of everyone at Geoff Steel Racing. They have worked diligently throughout the season to gain a better understanding of the car, and this result felt like recognition for all that dedication.
McBride now intends to build upon this standout career result when the Britcar Endurance Championship heads to Donington Park on August 8.