Elliott Fewster - 2025 BTRDA Rallycross Junior Champion - with Jules McBride
In this episode of the UKMotorTalk Podcast we welcome back Jules McBride to update us on driving in the first two rounds of the Britcar Endurance Championship. Jules also introduces us to Elliott Fewster, 2025 BTRDA Junior Rallycross Champion and currently driving in the 750MC Swift Sport Challenge, who he is mentoring as part of the FIA's disability in motorsport programme.For more:https://ukmotortalk.co.uk/2026/05/podcast-elliot-fewster-2025-btrda-rallycross-junior-champion-with-jules-mcbride/AI Episode summaryTribute to Alex ZanardiThe episode begins with a somber tribute to Alex Zanardi, who passed away at the age of 59. The hosts and guests describe him as an "absolute legend" and a deeply inspiring figure in the world of motorsport. His death was reportedly linked to injuries sustained in a handcycle accident involving a lorry, a trauma from which he never fully recovered.Jim reflects on Zanardi's racing career, noting that while his Formula One stints—including periods with Williams, Lotus, Minardi, and Jordan—were somewhat unsuccessful, he truly "found his feet" in IndyCar. His aggressive and raw racing style was perfectly suited to that series, highlighted by his famous overtake at the "Corkscrew" at Laguna Seca.Beyond his professional racing, the group discusses Zanardi's incredible resilience following the accident that cost him both legs. He transformed his life, becoming a gold-medal-winning Paralympian and even finding success at Brands Hatch and in touring cars. Jim recalls meeting Zanardi, noting his "beaming smile" and infectious positive attitude. Even when asked about the fear of crashing again, Zanardi joked that it was now easier to reattach his legs since he carried a "spare pair" and a screwdriver in his van .Jules’ Success at Oulton ParkThe focus then shifts to Jules' recent performance in Round Two at Oulton Park, which he considers his favorite UK track. Jules explains the technical challenges of his class, where he competes against Ginettas, McLarens, Astons, and Porsches. Because his car cannot match the cornering ability of some of these rivals, the series uses "Balance of Performance" (BoP) measures, such as adjusting pitstop times, to level the playing field.Jules credits his success to consistency and the "age-old adage" that to finish first, one must first finish. Unlike the "carnage" of Round One, the driving standards at Oulton Park were much improved. He describes a thrilling final 15 minutes of the race, scrapping "three abreast" into Cascades corner . A late safety car allowed his tires to cool, giving him the grip needed for a final push. He ultimately finished fourth overall and third in class, earning a podium and the "Driver of the Weekend" award.Racing with DyspraxiaA significant portion of the episode is dedicated to Elliott's experience racing with dyspraxia. He describes how the condition affects his coordination and processing speed, noting that it takes him longer to prioritize information. As a child, he was even scared of driving a manual car because he feared it would be too difficult, admitting he cried when he first tried at age 11.However, Elliott explains that once his helmet goes on, he enters a state of "hyperfocus". Everything else disappears, and he is entirely focused on the task at hand. Mike, who also has dyspraxia, shares a similar experience from a helicopter flight where intense concentration allowed him to overcome his usual coordination issues. Elliott notes that while he has to work harder than the "average" driver to process information, his success proves that it is possible to excel in motorsport with the condition. He cites Bobby Trundley as another successful driver with dyspraxia and autism. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
