Monger takes podium finish on racing return
Just 11 months after losing both his legs in an accident at Donington Park, 18-year-old racing driver Billy Monger made his return to racing today, and took a podium finish.
The teenager was making his debut in the BRDC Formula Three Championship at Oulton Park in Cheshire, where he qualified in fifth place.
Making up one place at the first corner, he also benefitted from a crash ahead of him, which put polesitter Clement Novalak out of the race.
After a lengthy safety car period, the race resumed but Monger was unable to close the gap on eventual winner Linus Lundqvist and Nikolai Kjaergaard, and crossed the line in third place.
"I can't believe I'm here," he said after the race. "If you told me at Donington Park last year that I'd be on the third step of the podium in my first F3 race I wouldn't have believed you.
"Massive thanks to the boys at Carlin. Without their dedication I wouldn't be here and fighting at the front. It is incredible.
"This result is my way of saying thank you to everyone who has supported me on the journey."
The trophies were presented by ITV commentator Paul O'Neill, who was amazed at Monger's result, in his return to racing. “That is unbelievable. He’s a couple of tenths off the pacesetter. If you want some inspiration come and see this kid.”
Highlights of this weekend's British F3 races are on ITV4 on Saturday 7th April at 7.55am