750 MC: Bitter sweet weekend for Bgatov

Andrei Bgatov had a mixed weekend in the opening round of the MR2 Championship at Snetterton recently.

The Russian driver took a second place in race 1, but didn’t finish race 2.

Bgatov qualified on the front row next to Zac Chapman for both races, but made much better starts than his rivals and led both races initially.

In race 1 the Russian eventually lost the lead to Chapman following a controversial overtaking manoeuvre using the pit lane exit into Riches. In race 2 Chapman repeated the same move on Mark Jessop, which triggered a review by the club.

Race 2 saw the rain arrive half way through the race, challenging the drivers' skills. Bgatov was caught in John Wilson's sideways moment, and the latter took him out of the race as he was going past exiting Sear.

“Overall I am very pleased with the start of the season,” said Bgatov. “Our pace was excellent and we led both races from the front row. It was great to get on the podium after the first race, and I would like to thank my sponsors for helping me get there - Indesit, Glidden Trade, Opie Oils and EBC Brakes.

“While it was disappointing to retire from the lead in race 2, I am very confident about the rest of the 2010 season. With 12 races still to go the fight has only just started!”

Watch highlights of the 750 Motor Club’s opening round at Snetterton on Motors TV (Sky Channel 413, Virgin Media 545) on Thursday 7 April at 7.10pm (BST).