The day also saw the debut of the Ultimate Grid Girl as Courtney Brown joined the team after winning an online competition run through men's magazine
Zoo Weekly. The stunning brunette attracted significant media attention on the grid and made a welcome addition to the party in the early evening. All teams were represented too, with a specially-designed season highlights video running on plasma screens and projected team logos spinning around the floor.
“Ultimate has certainly taken the Lloyds TSB Insurance British F3 International Series to a new level both on and off the track this year,” asserted Mike Grime, from British F3 International promoters SRO. “The end-of-season party was the perfect example of their refreshing approach to racing – be fierce competitors but don't forget to have a bit of fun along the way.
“When Ultimate launched at the British Racing Drivers' Club at
Silverstone back in February, they put on the kind of F1-style unveiling that British F3 had never seen before. As series organiser we were delighted that a British F3 team was putting such an unprecedented level of professionalism and promotional flair into the series.
“Their racing credentials have been displayed through their tenacious and committed development of the previously-unraced Mygale chassis, taking it from the back of the field into podium contention by the final few races of the season – a fantastic achievement.
“To then finish the year with such a unique and enjoyable party, open to everyone in the paddock, displayed their open and friendly nature and their ability to put on a really good show.”
Team owner Barry Walsh – from whose vision Ultimate Motorsport was born – was certainly in the mood for letting his hair down, but warned the Northamptonshire-based squad meant serious business out on the track, with some ambitious new ideas for the future.
“It's great to have everyone here with us and it's a fantastic set-up,” he remarked during the party. “What a way to end the season!
“We have tried to make our mark on the series and I think we have done that in all areas. This party is the kind of event that is vital to help spread the commercial excellence of series' like
F1 and GP2 throughout the motorsport ladder. We are thrilled to be the ones to bring it to F3!
“It's all about giving something back, not only to our team and sponsors but also to the rest of the guys who we have spent a fantastic year with – including all our rivals! It's been a great season and good craic, so why not celebrate? That's what Ultimate is all about.
