OLIVER MEADOWS CONFIRMS JCW GRADUATION WITH EXCELR8
Oliver Meadows will make his debut in the JCW class of the Vertu Motors MINI CHALLENGE this season after confirming a switch to EXCELR8 for the 2023 campaign.
The 19-year-old took his first steps into car racing last year with an entry into the MINI CHALLENGE Trophy, which came on the back of a successful career in karting.
Oliver – younger brother of double Porsche Carrera Cup champion Michael – showed his potential throughout his campaign in the Cooper class, which included qualifying in sixth spot for his debut at Pembrey.
That would be one of three top-six qualifying results across the campaign, with Oliver going on to secure 14 Rookie Cup podiums from 19 starts, and a best result of sixth overall during the BTCC support event at Thruxton.
Keen to now take his career to the next level, Oliver joins forces with multiple champions EXCELR8 for the move into the JCW category, which will see him racing exclusively on the TOCA package across the seven-round campaign.
Oliver’s debut in the JCW will come at Donington Park in late April and will see him competing at a number of new venues – with first visits to Oulton Park, Knockhill, Silverstone and the famous Brands Hatch Grand Prix circuit.
Oliver Meadows, EXCELR8 MINI CHALLENGE Driver, said:
“Last season was a big learning curve for me as I had to learn a completely different driving style with the switch into cars and into front-wheel drive – and all of the circuits were new as well. I feel I was able to develop a lot as a driver, and I’m excited to keep learning and to push myself as I now move up into JCWs.
“I’m really looking forward to this season, and also to working with EXCELR8. The team has a huge amount of experience and has been successful at the highest level, and I was impressed with their knowledge and professionalism when I had the opportunity to test the car over the winter.
“I know that the JCW grid is going to be very competitive, and my main goal this season is to try and consistently improve as the year goes on. I want to continue developing and growing as a driver, and it would be fantastic if I was able to challenge for top rookie honours.”
Justina Williams, EXCELR8 Team Owner, said:
“We’re delighted to welcome Oliver into the EXCELR8 family for his JCW debut. Last season, he joined the Cooper grid in what was a hugely competitive season and he showed his potential with a number of strong drives despite not having as much experience as most of his on-track rivals.
“Having already had a chance to sample the JCW car, the goal now is to help Oliver deliver the kind of results we know he is capable of and we’re looking forward to seeing him progress during the year ahead.”