Trio recovering from Formula Ford smash

Three drivers went to hospital after two major accidents in the Historic Formula Ford 1600 Championship round at Mallory Park. Title contenders Westie Mitchell and Amanda Whittaker were both detained in hospital, while Portuguese racer Diogo Ferrao was released the same evening.

The first accident happened as the pack charged through Gerards on the opening lap when Whittaker’s Elden Mk8 clipped the rear end of Mitchell’s Merlyn Mk20. “Westie missed a gear on the exit. This locked up the rear of the car and pitched it sideways,” said Whittaker. Contact with the Merlyn left Whittaker with a damaged radiator and nosecone, which pointed skywards. Ferrao – also in a Merlyn – hit Mitchell and they both speared heavily into the barriers.

As the pack completed the opening lap the red flags came out and, with her vision partially obscured, Whittaker hit the back of David Wild’s Lola as the leaders braked past the pits. The Elden cartwheeled down the track and the Durham woman’s crash helmet hit the track as it flipped. Fortunately, Whittaker was able to scramble clear of the wreck.

Mitchell spent over a week in hospital being treated for a back injury, while Whittaker was soon released with bruising. Her car was destroyed in the accident in August. “I wish Westie and Diogo a speedy recovery and look forward to battling with them again,” said Whittaker.