Ryan Lewis was deprived of a finish in the second of two Formula Renault races at Oulton Park today after a first lap collision forced him to retire at the end of the lap with serious front-end damage. After a good start, in which he made up several places, he was preparing to pass another driver as they entered Island for the first time, when he braked sharply and Ryan ran into the back of him.

“Things were looking quite good,” said Ryan. “I'd managed to make up three or four places at the start and was looking to pass another up the inside going into the Island hairpin when he suddenly braked much harder than I expected and I ran into the back of him. The front nose was damaged but also the brake fluid cap so there was no chance of rejoining the race. I'm very disappointed really, things had gone well in testing but this weekend has been a nightmare for me.”

“I was feeling quite hopeful of a good showing as the team installed a new engine after yesterday's post race checks showed there were problems with the one we used but unfortunately it wasn't to be.”

The 19 year-old Formula Palmer Audi Champion, is currently weighing up options for the 2004 season.

ENDS

Editors note: Copyright free pictures of Ryan are available at the website below and requests for interview should be directed to Cathy Metcalfe at the details below.

Ref: ml00041
21 September 2003

For media information: Cathy Metcalfe, MPR Associates, Tel: +44 (0) 1327 352199,
Fax: +44 (0) 1327 352908, Mob: +44 (0) 7802 332398, E-mail: cathy.metcalfe@btinternet.com

Website: www.ryanlewisracing.co.uk