RALLY driver Kevin Furber is set to make his motor racing debut -- after winning the drive in a raffle.
The former works Peugeot pilot was entered into the draw for the Uniroyal Team Challenge during a visit to the Autosport Show back in January.
And after competing against 30 other drivers at a special test day, Furber was one of six selected to take part in a 25-hour endurance race at the legendary Spa-Francorchamps circuit in Belgium.
"I haven't any aspirations to become the next Damon Hill, "explained the former Hapton businessman.
"A friend entered me into the competition, and to honest, the thought of sprinting around the same piece of track for 20 minutes, which is the format of most races, didn't really appeal.
"But now I know more about what I've got into, I really like the sound of it!"
Designed to ensure close racing at a low cost, the Uniroyal Team Challenge uses identical cars, based on a space-framed single seater with a Volkswagen Beetle bodyshell and powered by a 130bhp Golf Gti engine.
Following a successful first season in the UK, the Challenge has spread its wings to incorporate the Spa 25-hours into the six-race calendar.
And despite the initial doubts, Furber -- who now spends most of his time co-ordinating the Peugeot 205 Challenge rally series -- is looking forward to making his race debut.
He said: "I can't wait . I got a few laps in the car at the Rockingham raceway in Corby and it seems like a really good machine.
"I once drove a Lancia Stratos and it drives in a very similar way, but much more forgiving.
"The thought of competing in a 25-hour race looks like great fun,and when I looked at a race video from last year it seems that the Spa organisers allow an amazing 140 cars on the grid to start the race!
"More importantly, it just goes to show that you should never stop trying in motorsport, because after 20 years I have finally won a prize drive drawn out of a hat!"
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