IN poor conditions for car racing, 750 Motor Club specialist from the Isle of Wight, Danny Grist, put in his best-ever performance to come third at Norfolk’s famous Snetterton race track.

It was his highest placing yet in a race championship.

Danny, of Freshwater, driving a Mazda MX5, took part in the fifth qualifying round of the Davanti Tyres MX5 Cup by 5Club.

The 28-year-old, who had never driven on the circuit before, is enjoying the raised race class, from Max5 last year, to the 5Club championship this season.

Danny, who works at GKN Aerospace, said: "After a lap of driving in testing conditions — and the limits of the car — I began to get into a rhythm.

Isle of Wight County Press:

Danny Grist, in his Mazda MX5 (number 43), in action at the testing Snetterton race track, Norfolk.

"I wanted a good result so bad. I took a deep breath, looked for confidence and trusted in the car. I just went for it.

"The car was dancing and sliding around other competitors, them it hit me — they can’t put their power down.

"This gave me so much more confidence and belief in my driving. I now knew this was a level playing field.

"I picked them off one at a time over the 15-minute race.

"I had no idea where I finished at the time, but I was just so happy with my performance.

"It was the drive of my racing career so far.

"It was better than a win, for me to even get close to the other cars, let alone overtake them.

Isle of Wight County Press:

Danny Grist, left, receiving his trophy after he came third in the fifth qualifying round of the Davanti Tyres MX5 Cup by 5Club.

"As I got out of the car, I received news that I’d come third — my first podium in this racing club class.

"I never thought it was achievable, but I did it. I still can’t believe it now and keep pinching myself as I look at my trophy.

"I’ll be racing at this year's Race of Remembrance at Anglesey — and I know it’s going to rain.

"This race result has given me so much more confidence. I can’t wait to get stuck in."

The Race of Remembrance is a 12-hour endurance race, held between November 9-11.