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Racer Thomas Langford says winning his first-ever championship feels surreal.
AB Motorsport driver Langford was crowned BRSCC Mazda MX-5 champion on home turf at Brands Hatch last weekend, beating Adam Sparrow to glory with seven wins overall.
After claiming pole for race one, despite treacherous weather, a third-place finish following gearbox problems left Langford a point behind Sparrow.
In race two Langford started third, but when leader Sparrow ran wide he went by and the two title contenders pulled clear with the Dartford man taking the win with the fastest lap to lead the standings by two points going into the final race of the season.
Back on pole for race three, two safety cars and a race restart brought the field back together after making slight gaps. The restart was completed under the safety car and when the action resumed Sparrow’s attempt to overtake Langford ended in the gravel at Paddock Hill bend, leaving the championship leader to win the race in very wet conditions.
“I’m so delighted and proud of what we have achieved this year, winning the national championship,” Langford said.
“This is my first championship and I was delighted it happened at our home track of Brands Hatch.
“It still hasn’t sunk in. AB Motorsport have been incredible and left no stone unturned all season, preparing an amazing car to race.
“We were on the back foot, missing a round, but we stuck at it. All the late nights were so worth it.
“I would like to thank Nextwave Safety, Mo.Folio, CAESAR Auto Electrical and Midland Tyre Shaving. Without them, I would not have been able to race this year.
“To reward them with a championship is the perfect way to thank them for their support.
“A special thank-you to my parents and partner Laura, their unwavering support this season has allowed me to push harder than ever.
“I haven’t decided on my plans for 2025 yet, I’m still soaking up the victory. The route to go would be GT racing, either nationally or in Europe. However, it would be a real shame for the No.1 to not be emblazoned on the car!”