Lyons secures second title

Richard Lyons clinched a second success in Suzuka

Richard Lyons won his second title in a fortnight by clinching victory in the Japanese GT Championship at Suzuka.

After winning the Formula Nippon Championship on 7 November, the Hillsborough driver completed a unique double in the Suzuka GT300KM event.

In a controlled drive Lyons finished seventh, one place ahead of his closest championship rival.

Partnered by Satoshi Motoyama in their Nismo Xanavi Z, he stretched his winning points total from 11 to 12.

That was despite carrying a whopping 120kgs of success ballast, by far the highest of any car in the race and more than twice the extra weight of any car within seven places in the finishing order.

The level of technology is unequalled below Formula One Richard Lyons

The number one Nismo car was the only multiple winner in the series and Lyons' squad secured the team's title.

"This has been a fabulous season for everyone in the team and this title is as satisfying for me as my Formula Nippon win," said Lyons.

"To be involved in developing a car from scratch with a factory team is a tremendous privilege and a great help in my own progress as a driver.

"The level that these teams are operating at is at least the equal of any other series. The cars are quicker than almost every other car with a roof in the world.

"We are getting up to speeds in excess of 200mph in places and the level of technology is unequalled below Formula One. The races are long and tough, too, so all round it has been a great education."