With the Moore Racing prepared and Mike Gardiner driven Dodge Competition Coupe having used its consistency, reliability and pace through a string of victories the Indy circuit at Brands Hatch presented a significant challenge for the big American V10. The late October date had thinned the field from some of the earlier outings, but clearly there was quality present with the usual pack of Class 1 Porsches and Brands specialist Peter Seldon in his BMW GTR.

Qualifying proved difficult, an early issue with a daydreaming back marker required a hasty pits stop to change a damaged tyre as the track dried and the times improved. Although the Viper returned to the track at the end of the session it was too late to set a flying lap. This led the way clear for a clearly jubilant Peter Seldon to set pole for both races with the Viper second. The rest of the Porsche pack followed with a new Lotus Evora in the mix.

Peter Seldon's jubilation was to be short lived with Mike Gardiner sweeping past him at the start of the first race into Paddock Hill bend. The agility of the BMW allowed it to stay within touching distance throughout the race, but Mike's experience and technique ensured there was no way past. The end was close, but importantly the first victory of the meeting went to the Viper on a far from ideal track for such a big heavy car.

With the older Seldon stepping aside to let Matt Seldon drive in the second race - battle was recommenced from exactly the same starting positions. Having learnt from the first race the BMW kept the Viper wider at Paddock Hill bend and prevented a repeat passing move into the first corner. Mike then continued to climb all over the back of the BMW for an exciting 6 or 7 laps, trying to pressurise young Matt into a mistake on the tight track. The fierce tussle at the front allowed the lead Porsche to stay close to the battle as the two blue cars tussled. In the end the pressure was too much, not for Matt, but for the BMW as it slowed exiting Graham Hill bend.

This left Mike to lap consistently to the flag. Once again, as has been proven throughout the GT Cup season, the Viper has not necessarily been the quickest car on the day, but consistent lapping from an experienced driver - backed up by reliability from solid preparation has paid off to take both victories.

All photos by Mick Herring