Well, it sure was a full on weekend with weather we all dream about for the entire weekend.
Phil Foulkes and Michael Clark were dealt a rough blow early in the meeting and had to feel the anguish of not being able to compete. As I found last season, that is really tough, but you get to see some great racing and visualise where you would be in the pack. It also does us good to see the discipline of all competitors in those tight situations when running in such large fields.
I think it is fair to say that most of us were not really in favour of a handicap race with such a large field. I congratulate everyone for the discipline and consideration of every competitor. Not a single incident and both fast and slow groups showed respect for each other. FANTASTIC.
I am pleased to say that all competing members of our group are paid up to our series.This is a must.
It has been suggested that our fee be increased to at least $50 so that a MSNZ inspector can be employed to check the likes of engine legality. Frankly I don’t agree and prefer the honesty rule to prevail. I will do the checks at no charge if that is what our group feels is necessary.
I have the necessary equipment to check camshaft duration and compression pressure. It is a simple procedure which only entails spark plug and rocker cover removal and the fitting of a frame which houses two dial gauges which are in contact with the inlet and exhaust valve of one cylinder. It takes only a few minutes and identifies camshaft duration and lift. Couple this with a quick compression pressure check and we can fairly accurately identify engine legality.
Tony Cross has purchased a legal F/Ford engine which will be fitted after Taupo, which is admission that his current engine is outside our rules.
We have two other cars that have been suggested as doubtful to the specifications, both of which were purchased in the supposed illegal state they are in.
They are car no 8, Ben Field, and car no 222, Bruce Wooten. Also car 111, Bob Giles raises widespread suspicion.
On numerous conversations I hear of past competitors that would enter “Historic Racing” but would not consider it until controls are in place.
Frankly I don’t want to have to check engines at our meetings. All I want to do is race my car with the friends I respect and enjoy their company. Until the helmet comes on that is.
Where do we go from here. Please send me your views, we are all friends and are all concerned for the welfare of our series.
After Taupo I head to the South Island to again compete in the Southern Festival Of Speed.
Please send me your views. We all have a stake in our series and have to have unity.
I AM ONLY THE GUY THAT GETS THE SHOTS FIRED AT. PLEASE HELP ME BY EXPRESSING YOUR OPINION FOR THE GREAT GROUP YOU BELONG TO.
With that, I look forward to seeing you all in Taupo this weekend for another fun filled experience.
Bruce & Jill
