The #97 Aston Martin Vantage GT3, a car with proven strength around the iconic Silverstone Grand Prix circuit, looked right at home from the outset. After productive testing earlier this year at Silverstone, the team hit the ground running, and superb teamwork combined with excellent drives from Andrew Howard and Tom Wood secured P2 in the afternoon’s qualifying session. Tom in particular impressed, posting times that were competitive with the Pro drivers around him.
Sunday saw a spectacular crowd pack into Silverstone under bright blue skies, creating the perfect atmosphere for the fan-favourite autograph session. Over 500 tubs of Sides and Beechdean ice cream were handed out as fans met the drivers ahead of the 3-hour endurance race.
As the race began, strategy would prove crucial. Across the three hours, three full-course yellow periods and subsequent safety car interruptions kept the field tightly bunched. But thanks to slick pit stops and a smart alternative strategy, Beechdean Motorsport even led the race overall for several laps.
As the race entered its final hour, Andrew Howard delivered a masterclass in defensive driving, keeping the Vantage firmly inside the top 10 overall and second in the Silver-Am class. Tom Wood took over for the final stint, navigating traffic and pressure to bring the car home in P2 in class — securing another important podium finish for the team.
Tom Wood added: “Silverstone is iconic for so many reasons but racing here in a Vantage GT3 was really special. Even better when it ends with a great result! Andrew did a fantastic job all weekend, the strategy from the team was mega, and overall we have a lot of confidence for the season ahead."
Beechdean Motorsport now look ahead to Round 3, carrying strong momentum and building belief in their Silver-Am title charge.