Ahead of the 2024 season getting underway, we caught up with rallycross stalwart and good friend of AET, Todd Crooks.
Todd’s racing journey began in the grassroots world of karting before he transitioned to rallycross, where he found his true passion. Todd has now been racing in Rallycross for over 13 years. Throughout this time, he has piloted various vehicles, from classic minis to the turbocharged R35 Mini he currently commands. Fitted to the Mini is our X1C XR4951S turbo. It is small, in fact it is one of the smallest Xona Rotor turbo we offer, but it is for sure mighty. Todd’s Mini boasts an impressive 400bhp and 400Nm of torque—a testament to the power and reliability of his setup. Todd is full of praise for his current Xona turbo, stating that, ‘the Xona has been on for 2 seasons now and hasn’t had to come off at all, which I think is a record for us in terms of time between refurbs!’
Outside of competing, Todd works for McLaren Automotive as a brakes engineer for their supercars, and also sits on MSUK’s technical committee. He is definitely a busy man.
Reflecting on the 2023 season, Todd acknowledged the challenges his team faced with engine reliability issues. However, they emerged stronger and more determined, building a car that could withstand the true rigors of Rallycross.
Despite some setbacks early in the season, Todd showcased his talent with podium finishes and commendable performances.
Todd comments –
‘It was a season full of ups and downs, we unfortunately had a poor start to the year in round 1 at Blyton, due to taking damage in the early stages of the final race, resulting in a DNF. Rounds 2 & 3 were also days to forget regrettably because of CV joint failure and contact with another car. Things started to look up however at round 4, Blyton, where we showed very strong pace and achieved second place. The pace continued on to round 5, Lydden Hill, but unfortunately resulted in another DNF because of wheel stud failure.’
From then on however, it was plain sailing. A string of second places over the next 3 rounds ensued – Rounds 6 & 7 at Pembrey followed by double points at Knockhill for the finale.
All in all, it was a successful year. Todd showed good pace throughout the season, but he comments that, ‘There is always more to find!’
During the offseason, Todd and his team focused on fine-tuning the Mini, addressing shortcomings and implementing needed upgrades to enhance performance. From fitting a close-ratio dog gear box to lowering the ride height by a significant amount to help with pace on the tarmac and adding anti-lag, every detail was meticulously refined to optimize the car’s driveability.
Round 1 of the BTRDA Clubman’s Rallycross Championship took place on Sunday 17th March at Blyton Park, Lincolnshire, and the team were successful in achieving a 1st place finish. Todd and his team are primed and ready to defend their title as Category Champions in 2024.
Todd is poised to make waves with his powerful Mini once again. Keep an eye out for updates throughout the 2024 season, right here with AET.
