In the world of the British Touring Car Championship, the term ‘enigmatic’ finds a fitting embodiment in the form of Dan Cammish. It’s not because of the man himself, who exudes openness, honesty, and self-awareness, but rather due to his track record of results that continue to intrigue and impress.
The narrative of 2023 saw Ash Sutton clinch the championship title in the lead NAPA-liveried Ford Focus ST, while Cammish steered the sister car to a respectable sixth place in the standings. The following year, as Sutton’s dominance waned against the backdrop of rival teams like West Surrey Racing and Excelr8 Motorsport, Cammish surged forward to match the points total of the fourth-placed driver, Colin Turkington. The gap between Cammish and Sutton narrowed significantly, marking a significant improvement over previous seasons.
However, Cammish acknowledges that part of his prior setbacks against Sutton were attributed to unfortunate circumstances – from a fiery incident at Donington Park in 2022 to a brake failure and subsequent crash the following year. Reflecting on these challenges, Cammish notes how these unforeseen events disrupted their momentum as a team, albeit without altering the ultimate outcome of the championship significantly. Despite the setbacks, the 2024 season proved to be a turning point, showcasing substantial progress for Cammish and his team.
Behind the Scenes: Racing Dynamics
The dynamics of racing against a seasoned champion like Sutton within the same team presented a unique set of challenges for Cammish. As they both joined forces at Alliance Racing, formerly known as Motorbase, in 2022, the focus was primarily on integrating a new hybrid system into the car. The subsequent year witnessed a comprehensive redevelopment of the Focus under the guidance of Sutton’s long-time engineer, Tony Carrozza, emphasizing Sutton’s distinct driving style that demanded a specific setup.
When asked about the strategic changes implemented for the 2024 season, Cammish attributes their success to a subtle shift in the car’s setup that resonated with his driving style. By fine-tuning the car’s responsiveness and stability, Cammish was able to enhance his cornering abilities and overall performance, narrowing the gap between him and Sutton on the track. The collaborative efforts between Cammish and his engineer, James Mundy, yielded significant improvements in their racing dynamics, showcasing a promising trajectory for the future.
Personal Growth and Team Dynamics
Amidst the intense competition and internal comparisons within the team, Cammish’s transition to working alongside Sam Osborne, the son of team owner Pete, brought about a refreshing change in perspective. While the initial garage swap was intended to rotate team dynamics, it inadvertently alleviated some of the pressure associated with being in direct competition with Sutton. The newfound collaboration with Osborne provided Cammish with a sense of autonomy and space to refine his approach, leading to tangible improvements in his performance on the track.
Looking ahead to the upcoming seasons, Cammish remains committed to his partnership with Alliance Racing, acknowledging the competitive landscape and the esteemed position of his seat within British motorsport. Despite the ongoing comparisons with Sutton and the inherent challenges that come with it, Cammish finds solace in the unwavering support of his team and the shared goal of continuous improvement. As he navigates the complexities of the BTCC, Cammish’s dedication, resilience, and unwavering work ethic stand as testaments to his pursuit of excellence in the sport.
In conclusion, Cammish’s journey in the British Touring Car Championship symbolizes a blend of perseverance, adaptation, and strategic evolution. As he embarks on the quest for his maiden championship title, Cammish embodies the spirit of a relentless competitor, poised to conquer new heights in the realm of motorsport. With each race, each challenge, and each triumph, Cammish’s narrative unfolds as a testament to the enduring pursuit of excellence in the face of formidable competition.
