Following a successful debut at Silverstone, Apex Motorsport are pleased to confirm the presence of two Jaguar XKRs at the next round of the 2008 FIA European GT3 Championship at Monza on 18th May.

Recently signed multi-champion Ray Bellm brings his considerable experience to the Apex garage, with 28 years of successful motorsport including wins in British Historic GT2, 3 years Champion of World Sportscar, twice winner at Le Mans, 8 wins in the BPR Endurance Championship and most recently, the World Rally Group N Championship.  Bellm served as Chairman of the BRDC form 2004 to 2005, during which time he was responsible for the successful negotiations with Formula One Management which secured the British Grand Prix.

Bellm commented: “I can see a great future for the Jaguar XKR in the hands of Apex, the team has impressed me with the level of commitment and enthusiasm.”

Joining Bellm is Stuart Hall, who was delighted to be on the podium with the Jaguar at Silverstone, despite it being his first time driving a front-engined GT car.  Hall is currently part of a young driver training scheme sponsored by the BRDC, and has already achieved considerable success in the British Formula 3 Championship.

Building on their recent experience, the team of Ben Clucas and Robert Hissom will be looking to improve their lap times, having established the incredible capabilities of the 4.2 litre Jaguars at Silverstone last month.  24 year-old Clucas has combined single seater racing with GTs over the last two years, achieving success in Caterhams, Formula 3 and Porsches.  His partner in the gunmetal-grey Jaguar XKR is American semi-pro driver Hissom, who joined the FIA championship in 2007 in the Kreyern Racing Stealth GT4 car.

Clucas commented: “the car clearly has huge potential.  I think the pace was there for everyone to see, and massive amounts of credit have to go to Apex Motorsport for what they have achieved.”