View Full Version : ERC Race Series - Euro Saloons & Sports
briteyes
04-09-2014, 07:19 PM
It is hard to turn up to an event if you do not know it is on.
the recent Legends of speed up north. I didnt know it was on.
Yes I am in wellington but travel when ever I am able to to watch good motorsport.
There are plenty of people that would go if they only knew.
We in NZ do a piss poor job of advertising or motorsport to the general public, whats the point in only the people in the know or involved being the only ones there. We need punters through the gates and bums on seats. Broarder advertising may be a good place to start.
Oldfart
04-09-2014, 07:27 PM
Perhaps the low level of advertising has a bit to do with promoters having to fund this and like the chicken and the egg...
If ERC had a huge budget (which comes from ???) he would advertise a whole meeting when the classes he runs are only part of the deal.
Until there is a bottomless pot to pay the exorbitant fees which the media want it's always going to be a problem.
The Legends meeting was pretty well publicised on here. Yes I know this is a bit of a specialised forum so not everyone sees it, but as enthusiasts are we not the ones to spread the word for FREE!
Perhaps this site Steve reading this? could have a "sticky" for upcoming events at the top of the General Discussion page which gets by far the most hits?
Briteyes, I understand where you are coming from, but we have looked at advertising in the past and it was a miserable, expensive failure.
If you aren't on Hampton Downs mailing list (just go to their website and sign up) you'll obviously be relying on the general media who totally ignore motorsport, other than if there is a fatality (after the event has run of course) or it is the megabucks Aussie V8s. HD sends out a monthly newsletter which covers everything on at the track, and the HRC (Historic Racing Club) ditto. They even have our practice day Easter Sunday listed! (We still have vacancies...)
HRC take out more race permits that any other club in the country with events not just at HD, but also Pukekohe and Taupo.
This is the reality. We advertised some years ago for a Pukekohe event that included the F5000s on the late January holiday weekend. The weather was fine, but with an airshow on at Ardmore and various other activities on in the region, it cost more to advertise the meeting than we had income through the gate!
We ran the first classic meeting at the then brand new Hampton Downs track. The number of spectators was laughable and I think that we hardly even covered the cost of a paid gate person.
As stated above, even these National race meetings are totally financed by the competitors so unless you can be sure that advertising will bring in enough punters to cover the costs, it isn't worth it. I take it that you noted the lack of spectators at the last Super Tourer round at Pukekohe? Big budget, big names, but too few cars and minimal paying spectators.
Apart from the Festival and the Aussie V8s, the biggest crowd I have seen at a race meeting was the combined Legends with Targa at Pukekohe a few years back.
One shower of rain and the casual spectators don't go anyway.
Agree with Old Fart. We need an upcoming events corner on here, but we are already preaching to the converted. For the last few years, free to air TV in my opinion, showing tiny grids of one make cars, has put more people off the sport than it has attracted. If that is the best that can be shown, no wonder we don't get people through the gate.
When we paid for Sky TV coverage for a couple of seasons, it was usually shown without notice, at maybe 5pm and repeated at 7am the following morning. The last meeting was never even shown at all, as Sky preferred to show repeats of stuff they had bought in from overseas, rather than show a package that was gifted to them.
We generally run meetings for the competitors and no longer even consider the spectators! Sad, but I think the problem of attracting spectators is way beyond fixing at our level with zero resources.
Spgeti
04-09-2014, 10:40 PM
I agree with Ray re advertising events. Even down here for Manfeild the advertising is restricted to Manfeild or Manawatu Car Club Websites. After that it is up to the car clubs or event holder to shell out to advertise. MG to a good job with their two events down here but it is still at a low level most likely due to cost.
Belonging to Alfa Romeo Owners Club gives me access to Trofeo who do a good job notifiying us of the events in Auckland area.
apart from the Festival I usual see a couple of HRC events at Taupo just to support the Trofeo guy's and usually a group of us make the trip to make it worth while.
Allan
04-10-2014, 01:31 AM
As in anything you do you must balance the costs against the rewards. Shelling out large sums on advertising and not having enough spectators pass through the gate to even pay for it is not the way to go. And adding a bit to entry fees is not going to make you many friends either.
Well, that is season 28 put to bed after a successful awards dinner. We raised about $1200 for Child Cancer thanks to generous gift donations from AES (Auckland Engineering Supplies), Barbara Manning, Rex & Donna Ferall and Des Regewell plus several others.
With racing still on at Manfeild, several regulars couldn't make it but great to see two of the Historic Commission present, plus Dale Mathers, enjoying the evening.
The highlight, without a doubt was having Tony Sturm attend after his horrific crash at Taupo back in January. Walking with a frame, he is now able to stand briefly, unaided.
As we don't publish points meeting by meeting - or indeed, at all, some of the following may have been surprised with their awards.
Adam Jones put together a brilliant 7 minute film with clips from in car videos throughout the last season or two spliced into clips from the 1966 film - "Grand Prix. (YouTube link to come...)
Great food as always and the evening closed with a short Power Point presentation of upcoming cars and of course, the raffle. Many thanks to so many people for their generosity and to Barbara, Sue and Paula for selling the raffle tickets.
Trophies in order of either importance or points scored.
Most Sporting - Convenors Trophy - First time winner - Rex Ferrall- Triumph TR8;
AES - Grp 2 - First time winner - Colin Craig – Ford Escort;
Arrow Wheels Grp 1 First time winner - Steve Cowie – Alfa Romeo GT;
Top Saloon First time winner - Ken Williams – Mercedes 280;
BMC series for 4 cylinder cars (Original Trophy) - First time winner - Dave Mallin – MGB GT;
TOPS MG - First won 2010 - Grant Kern – MGB Sports V8/K3 Special;
John Tomlin Ford - First time winner - John Sampson - Ford Capri 2600;
Top Italian - Second time - also 2012 - Chris Browne – Alfa Sud;
TOPS Alfa - First time winner - Edward Hunkin – Alfa 33;
Jason Nicholl Porsche - Second time - also 2012 - Brian Yates – Porsche 944;
TOPS Datsun Z - First won 2007 - Ricky Cooper – 240Z;
Sutherland BMW - Also won 2011- John Hudson – BMW 2002;
TOPS Jaguar - Fourth year running - Derek Moore – Jaguar XJS;
TOPS Triumph - First won 2002 - Geoff Sparkes – Triumph Dolomite Sprint;
Token volunteer awards – Shiane Day & Carter Rinkin
Additional Awards – “The ReVolvo Trophy” (revolving jandal trophy) – Des Redgewell - For putting his Volvo on its roof.
Dark glasses, White Stick & Labrador award for missing the flags – Zac Lawrence (BMW635) – with additional ear trumpet for breaking the Pukekohe noise limit.
We now look forward to season 29 - and my 19th as a de facto dictator or Chinese Warlord....
Many thanks to all ERC drivers and the many series supporters who enjoy the participation and camaraderie and most of all, clean driving and a huge variety of cars.
Ray
Kiwiboss
05-11-2014, 02:54 AM
Fantastic evening Ray, really enjoyed it!!
Dale M
Glad you could make it Dale.
xu1nut
05-11-2014, 10:45 AM
Sure can , most rolling starts asked for and ( ususally given ) to noters down here in their fancy BMW's with special Nurburgring gertrag 6 speed boxes with 1.5 to 1 first gears ratios and triple plate clutches should handicap themselves to the back of the grid for the start .............problem solved , me old mini and torana never seem to suffer
With the older and more delicate cars, a rolling start is more easier on the machinery, and also relieve congestion in first corners with less chance of damage.
Does anyone have a suggestion on how to do rolling starts using the handicap system?
I think this deserves posting:
What a great surprise to win the ERC AES Tradezone Series. I should have said something on Saturday night, but thanks again for organising another fantastic season. I would also like to thank everyone who contributes to our great race meetings – the circuit owners, flag marshals, grid marshals, handicappers, safety car crews and all the other officials and volunteers that allow all of us to have such great meetings. Being a flag marshal for 15? years a long time ago I appreciate how much time everyone has to give to make a meeting succeed.
I would also like to thank all AES and Arrows competitors who make it such a great race series and who you can trust for fair and clean racing and who will always be there to help if you need it. I wish everyone a healthy and safe off-season and will see you all for the 2014/15 season.
Thanks again
Colin Craig
Limezed
05-12-2014, 10:45 AM
Here is a link to Adam's well put together video
http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=VcQnF8xNFfE
Limezed
05-12-2014, 10:46 AM
.
Adam has also volunteered to be an administrator for our Facebook page.
https://www.facebook.com/ErcClassicRaceSeriesnz
Should be a piece about the series in this month's MSNZ news.
New season's provisional calendar on the website, but still waiting for confirmation on a couple of dates.
We already have 20 paid up for the new season, 4 months early! I am now away until end August so I hope others will post on here to keep the thread ticking along as we approach season 29...
All I can do is wish all supporters (and even the occasional critics!) a safe and happy winter and we'll see you at the Ice Breaker in September.
Kiwiboss
05-24-2014, 05:58 AM
A great ERC article via Motorsport NZ news Ray, well written and informative and thanks for the mention of HMC and what both groups are trying to achieve for Historic and Classic racing. :)
Dale M
Cheers Dale. The same philosophy, just a different way to achieve it. "Participation and enjoyment and using our cars - with camaraderie as the bonus." Hope you enjoyed the chocolate fush... Now I must finish the packing.
NEW SEASON - paid up so far
8 Mark Parsons TRIUMPH TR7 V8
13 Paul Kendrick FIAT 131 R
14 Adrian Hayman MG BGT V8
20 Geoff Sparkes TRIUMPH Dolomite Sprint
21 Bryce Platt PORSCHE 924 S
26 Steve Newenham DATSUN 260 Z
29 Mike Lucas DATSUN 260Z
34 Graeme Park PORSCHE 944S2
42 Des Redgwell VOLVO 242GT
47 Gary Baildon BMW E30 318is
49 Chris Browne ALFA ALFASUD
64 John Palmer MG BGT
65 Stewart Martel CITROEN BX16V
66 Todd Forsyth MG BV8
67 Cath Kendrick PORSCHE 944
70 Ray Green MARCOS VOLVO 3L
72 Karl Sentch DATSUN 240Z
75 Craig Howser FORD ESCORT
76 Craig Sawyer VAUXHALL CHEVETTE
83 John Honore FERRARI 308GTB
87 David Brace BMW
88 Bruce Manon FORD ESCORT
92 Brian Yates PORSCHE 924S
93 Ivan Selak FORD ESCORT
115 Chris Barendregt PORSCHE 944S2
120 John Munro JAGUAR XJ6
135 Don Roy MG BGT V8
142 Bruce Kirk VOLVO 142
156 G Langsford ALFA
181 Ron Findlay FORD PERANA
185 John Nuthall ALFA GTV 105
203 Andy Mygind DATSUN 240Z
213 Dave Mallin MG BGT
222 Bruce Jones FORD CAPRI
229 Chris Browne ALFAROMEO ALFASUD TI
240 Earl Cruickshank DATSUN 240Z
240.1 Roman Schiff DATSUN 240Z
246 Tony Olissoff ALFA SUD Ti
260 Ron Findlay DATSUN 260Z
279 Barry Hare ROVER VITESSE
281 Paul Chisholm VW Golf GTI
295 Mal Chamberlain FORD ESCORT
317 Colin Craig FORD ESCORT MK II
400 David Frith Alfa Alfa 33 1.7
616 Dave Mallin MG BGT V8
778 Rex Ferrall TRIUMPH TR8
833 Rob Hunkin ALFA 33
833.1 Edward Hunkin ALFA 33
866 Francois Cronje RENAULT R8 GORDINI
888 Peter Hannaford FIAT 130 TC
891 Chris Hunkin ALFA 33
891.1 Edward Hunkin ALFA 33
910 Simon Mills ALFA SUD
944 Paul Madeley PORSCHE 944S2
Add:
car numbers 233, 60, 502, 280, 22, 623, 19, 28, 48, 69, 333 and 739.
Several more on the way including another Jaguar XJS. We (I!) do need more Brit cars, but we have to understand that the numbers of available cars has been shrinking dramatically which is why we are now swamped by Euros and even Datsun Z's.
Ironically, had we stuck to our roots, namely a BMC 4 cylinder series, we'd only have 2 cars registered so far! Which just goes to prove that no matter what your initial philosophy, times change and you have to have a more open mind, as what may work today, may not work tomorrow.
Equally, if too many cars are excluded from the Classic Scene, particularly if they aren't fast or potential winners with massive horsepower or 100% pure, then the scene will sink to the same bland levels as Tier 1 racing.
AES Entry for Icebreaker - 26 cars
Arrows - 15 cars.
A total of 41 for the first meeting of the season is a pretty good turnout - BUT, it is still less than one a full grid! Five Datsuns...
ENTRIES
20 Geoff Sparkes Triumph Dolomite Sprint
21 Bryce Platt Porsche 924S
27 Paul Halford Alfa Romeo Guilia Sprint GTA
42 Des Redgwell Volvo 242 GT
47 Gary Baildon BMW 318is
49 Chris Browne Alfa Romeo Alfasud
64 John Palmer MGB GT
67 Paul Kendrick Porsche 944
72 Karl Sentch Datsun 240Z
92 Brian Yates Porsche 924S
135 Don Roy MGB GT V8
150 Allan Brook MGB GT
156 Gary Langsford Alfa 156
169 Neville Thompson MGB GT
185 John Nuthall Alfa Romeo 105 GTV
213 Dave Mallin MGB GT
233 Max Van Maanen Alfa Romeo 33 (16v)
242 Roman Schiff Datsun 240Z
280 Ken Williams Mercedes 280CE
281 Paul Chisholm VW Golf
833 Edward Hunkin Alfa Romeo 33
866 Francois Cronje Renault R8 Gordini
891 Chris Hunkin Alfa 33
910 Simon Mills Alfa Sud Ti
944 Paul Madeley Porsche 944
7 Tony Roberts Chevrolet Corvette Stingray
19 Kerry Chadderton Porsche 911SC
22 Peter Robinson BMW M3 Alpina Replica
34 Graeme Park Porsche 944S2
40 Adrian Dobbe Vauxhall Viva
44 Derek Moore Jaguar XJS
48 Ricky Cooper Datsun 240Z
69 Dennis McConnell Ford Escort Lotus twin cam
83 John Honore Ferrari 308GTB
93 Ivan Selak Escort YB Cosworth
120 John Munro Jaguar XJ6
203 Andy Mygind Datsun 240Z
240 Earl Cruickshank Datsun 240Z
279 Barry Hare Rover SD1
333 Rogan Hampson Ohlsen Cobra 289 Roadster
739 Grant Kern MGB V8 Roadster
With the Aussie V8s vacating their 2015 April Pukekohe Anzac date, ERC have accepted an invitation to compete and that will now be our final round of the season - and double points.
Several more drivers have renewed and we are now up to 70 paid up drivers.
Now 82 drivers paid up, but a post to say that our new website is up and running - just!
Instead of being part of my own site, it is now stand alone.
http://www.ercrace.nz
Struggling to get to grips with learning new software - yet again...
Andrew Metford
11-09-2014, 10:05 PM
Nice website Ray, easy to use and easy to find the info :)
Ganley Festival - combining both AES & Arrows runners to make a potentially full 46 car grid... Grid is almost full already with well over 40 cars.
Welcome to the new registrations (now up to 88 paid up drivers) - one of which has a good history, Win Jacob. Now running a 3.6 XJS Jaguar. With Bryce Platt also running and Ray Williams renewing his registration, it is good to see drivers from the early 1980's still having a good go and enjoying themselves.
Just a snapshot from the website with the drivers uploaded so far. The current priority is getting the Ganley driver pics sorted and ready for the poster, so this is not the full list:
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26818
26819
The final ERC Ganley poster. Apart from the bottom two corners, pictures are of drivers who have entered for the ERC races. The bottom two corner are of car 31 (which has been updated and is now an XJ40) and I had to use Gary Johnstone's XJS as I don't have a pic of car 36, Win Jacobs 3.6 XJS.
26843
Ganley Festival, weekend 2. Wow! 1 Practice (55 cars) one scratch race, 46 cars - sadly finished under safety car due to an engine blow up. Thanks to the generosity and assistance from Rob Berggren, Craig Howser was back out again Saturday afternoon after an engine transplant.
Two handicaps Saturday - 44 cars - two yellow flags - minor damage to three cars. (One self inflicted!)
Two handicaps Sunday - 46 & 44 cars - as far as I am aware, no yellow flags, no panel damage.
Absolutely brilliant with cars 4 wide at times and more often than not, two or three wide in the later stages.
Spirit of the meeting award, for the ERC series, awarded to Craig Howser.
I hope the spectators enjoyed it as much as the drivers... I hope also that those who did enjoy it, pass on their comments to the organisers. I hope photographers post their pics on here too.
nigel watts
01-25-2015, 11:44 PM
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Shoreboy57
01-26-2015, 12:43 AM
Ganley Festival, weekend 2.
I hope the spectators enjoyed it as much as the drivers... I hope also that those who did enjoy it, pass on their comments to the organisers. I hope photographers post their pics on here too.
For this spectator, ERC added a lot to NZFMR (Sunday). Big field (when a number of categories were down on numbers), lots of variety, interesting racing. With perhaps one exception all cars fitted this fan's expectation of an historic / classic meet. Well done
Kevin Hirst
01-26-2015, 01:20 AM
For this spectator, ERC added a lot to NZFMR (Sunday). Big field (when a number of categories were down on numbers), lots of variety, interesting racing. With perhaps one exception all cars fitted this fan's expectation of an historic / classic meet. Well done
Yes, great racing, great cars, well worth going to, no hotdogs [bugger]
Paul Wilkinson
01-26-2015, 01:48 AM
Yep, we chose the second weekend so we could catch the ERC cars. It would have been a bit thin without them I reckon.
Sorry Kevin there were hotdogs....
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01-26-2015, 03:01 AM
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01-26-2015, 03:23 AM
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You can learn a lot about the way your suspension is working (or not!) from photographs! That very heavy cast iron six up front is hard work at times. Love it...
Great stuff Nigel, as always.
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01-26-2015, 04:26 AM
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01-26-2015, 04:32 AM
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crunch
01-26-2015, 04:36 AM
A great grid, great variety and endless dices among the entries. A credit to you all and I think in keeping with aspects of Historic motor racing from NZ's past. Well done to all involved.
Thanks Crunch. Sorry we didn't catch up for a coffee this time. Hectic weekend... Great bunch of competitors who understand what it is all about.
beowulf
01-26-2015, 09:49 AM
A great grid, great variety and endless dices among the entries. A credit to you all and I think in keeping with aspects of Historic motor racing from NZ's past. Well done to all involved.
Agreed Crunch. Top marks ERC to you and all your entries. Good driving, good racing and very entertaining.
Ricky
01-26-2015, 09:51 AM
Here's a few videos of what it looked like from the drivers seat.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JRokcVEVx_A&list=UUmh5FkC8_PBHRtMuj3FA63w
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BK0XfKkEr0I&list=UUmh5FkC8_PBHRtMuj3FA63w
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3E4e_L69zHg&list=UUmh5FkC8_PBHRtMuj3FA63w
crunch
01-27-2015, 08:16 AM
Here's a few videos of what it looked like from the drivers seat.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JRokcVEVx_A&list=UUmh5FkC8_PBHRtMuj3FA63w
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BK0XfKkEr0I&list=UUmh5FkC8_PBHRtMuj3FA63w
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3E4e_L69zHg&list=UUmh5FkC8_PBHRtMuj3FA63w
Nice looking car Ricky...and great sound.
Only bettered when the black BMW 635 was beside you in the second race!
Check this out - Bruce Manon driving Mike Sexton's Ford Escort overtaking 43 cars...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J42ayb1Js2A
There are several other YouTube videos from Adam Jones (Ford Escort), Gary Baildon (BMW) and Frans Cronje (Renault Gordini). Frans video also has a rear facing camera so half way through, you get a different view of the scratch race.
I am collating them but renaming based on the race program, meaning sessions 4 (Practice) 14 (scratch race), Saturday Handicaps 24, 34, Sunday Handicaps 44, 53. Handicap races 8 laps, scratch race 7 laps finished under safety car.
Just for those who may be interested, spectators saw:
1939 race laps completed by the ERC cars.
273 cars started
250 finished the full quota of laps so 23 DNF's which ranged from 1 lap to 7 laps.
Just 3 cars incurred any panel damage throughout the weekend and all were drivable and continued racing. Very, very impressive.
Jaydee
01-29-2015, 11:04 PM
and here's a short in car from the Zag: glad I was driving and not watching, if you see what I mean.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KKryvogGst0
Andrew Metford
01-30-2015, 10:46 AM
The old Volvo squeeze, didn't John Bowe used to drive a Volvo, that's how he used to pass people too……
Very glad you didn't find the fence John. Love the Escort too :)
Oldfart
01-30-2015, 07:12 PM
And here was me, silly old fool, believing that the overtaking car is the one who has to find the safe way past, and the overtaken car use the same racing line he would without traffic. Least that is what every briefing I have attended in recent years has said.
John McKechnie
01-30-2015, 08:51 PM
Rhys- earplugs to be worn only on the track and not at drivers briefing ?
The drivers did very well and as one of the slower cars, I seemed to spend a fair bit of time keeping out of the way of the faster cars - especially in the other races! The indisputable fact is that there was no virtually no carnage and the drivers did what they were told to do at driver's briefing.
In scratch race conditions Rhys, you are 100% correct, but with two race groups combined, our fast group mixed in with our slower group, we have our own rules regarding cornering lines and in the main, the guys did OK. Bruce's Escort (to be fair, Mike Sexton's Escort) is obviously the fastest cars there and lapping at best at 1:13. The slowest there was lapping slower than 1:30. That is a huge difference and cars can catch you surprisingly quickly, as can groups of cars, which makes it even tougher, picking a line.
I'll stand by that piece of film, and others, that this was great racing on any scale and proved that dodgem car racing is not required for a great spectacle.
Until you have been in a situation where you are a middle pace driver, overtaking and also being overtaken at the same time and in a handicap format and philosophy, that tries to get every car over the finish line at the same time, it is so easy to get it wrong.
Bear in mind these are all amateur drivers driving their own cars and in a grid of 44 cars, the end results speak for themselves.
Oldfart
01-31-2015, 02:31 AM
And from all the videos I have watched from your group Ray they have done exceptionally well. My comment was somewhat in reaction to the comment that appeared to say that Des had squeezed the passing car. Des is not one of the slowest cars, and kept his line as I believe he is expected to do?
Oldfart
01-31-2015, 02:33 AM
Rhys- earplugs to be worn only on the track and not at drivers briefing ?
For many of these groups perhaps the hearing aids should be worn at briefing :)
nigel watts
03-19-2015, 08:15 AM
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It's only when you see pics like this that you realize how close the driver's bum is to the track. (Note the piece of black bodywork between the wheels, which is the seat base!)
Thanks Steve, for moving these over from my "Mix of Pics" thread. Great variety and full grids. This is what I like about any racing and particularly our series. Great pics Nigel.
I have announced to our members that at the end of next season, my 20th in the hot seat, I will be handing over the reins to someone else.
My stance throughout business and industry, either within or working as an external advisor/consultant, has always been to preach "Don't let anyone ever make themselves indispensable". So I must practice what I preach.
When I looked at what happens throughout a season, plus losing the occasional friend well before their time, I realised that I had accidentally made myself not exactly indispensable, but that no-one else really knows how the Series operates. Rather than be faced with a very successful Series lurching around for a while if our pilot decides to fly into a mountain, or our ship's captain decides to park the ship on its side, time to set things in place now to make sure that the Series is in good hands for the future.
I don't really believe the "Committee" model works that well. "A camel is a thoroughbred racehorse designed by a committee - Issigonis?" and thankfully, someone has stepped up to take over as from season 31, the 2016/2017 season. Some people may be co-opted to carry the workload, but I am hopeful that the current model has been proved to be successful. An announcement will be made in due course, but for anyone interested, we have booked the CT Club at Remuera to discuss the way forward for the ERC Series, but I extend an invitation to any other Classic racers and supporters to come along, as Classic racing is very healthy at the moment and we never get the chat to chat.
The MSNZ conference only caters for one or two from each club, so getting the drivers together makes some sort of sense.
The long awaited track extension/club circuit at HD may open up more opportunities for racers and club members, so having a platform to discuss things locally seemed a sensible idea.
The meal is $25 - April 20th - bookings essential before April 15th please, via "convenor @ ercrace.nz" (ignore the spaces of course, but this is an anti spam attempt!) but for those not wishing to eat, the meeting will start around 7:30, but doors open 6:30 and the meal at 6:45pm. Pay bar.
ERC members will get a $10 voucher towards their meal.
This is not our awards dinner, that is May 9th at the same venue, but that is not to say that an award will not be presented...
I am very pleased to announce that Chris Browne will take over the role of Convenor as from the end of next season.
Chris and I share the same philosophies and worked very well together when challenged by the Historic Commission, to rewrite the T & C regulations a few years ago.
Chris is a former leading light of the Alfa Trofeo series and the Alfa and ERC series will continue to work together, so that the dates are compatible for both sets of drivers, as there is a considerable overlap anyway.
I will of course assist Chris in any way I can.
Update: May 17th - Neck restraints will NOT now be made compulsory - just an advisory.
Year 29 done and dusted, a great awards night again with lots of laughs. Next year - June 11th to celebrate our 30th.
Congratulations to all trophy winners. Although slightly more substantial than chocolate fish, (and less fattening), no driver knew who had won what award until the presentation.
Top award - the convenor's trophy went to Jaguar driver, John Munro. Grant Kern took out the Arrow Wheels trophy and Brian Yates, the AES award.
For a list of trophy winners and points scored, go to the website and they are under the 'Home' page tab.
http://www.ercrace.nz
The drivers who have already clocked 15 years or more over the last 19 years gained free registrations for the new season as a thanks for their support. There were 16 of them!
New season's registrations paid up so far (including the 'freebies'):
14 Adrian Hayman ARROW MG BGT V8
15 Phil Laird ARROW BMW 318IS
20 Geoff Sparkes AES TRIUMPH Dolomite Sprint
23 Rob Moston ARROW JAGUAR XJ 6
29 Mike Lucas AES DATSUN 260Z
30 Rod Hemmings AES TVR 3000M
31 Eddie York ARROW JAGUAR XJ40
39 Grant Kern AES MG TD
42 Des Redgwell AES VOLVO 242GT
47 Gary Baildon AES BMW E30 318is
49 Chris Browne AES ALFA ALFASUD
56 Ray Green AES MG MAGN8
60 Chris Fraser ARROW MORGAN PLUS 8
64 John Palmer AES MG BGT
70 Ray Green AES MARCOS VOLVO 3L
88 Bruce Manon ARROW FORD ESCORT
89 John Ure AES JAGUAR MARK 2
89 John Ure AES JAGUAR MARK 7
89 John Ure AES JAGUAR XJ12
92 Brian Yates AES PORSCHE 924S
113 Grant Kern AES MG SPECIAL
120 John Munro ARROW JAGUAR XJ6
142 Bruce Kirk AES VOLVO 142
159 Glen Thompson AES MG B SPORTS
169 Neville Thompson AES MG BGT
198 John Tomlin AES TRIUMPH 2500PI
203 Andy Mygind ARROW DATSUN 240Z
213 Dave Mallin AES MG BGT
229 Chris Browne AES ALFAROMEO ALFASUD TI
246 Tony Olissoff ARROW ALFA SUD Ti
280 Ken Williams AES MERCEDES 280CE
431 Phil Josephs AES ROVER 220T
616 Dave Mallin ARROW MG BGT V8
739 Grant Kern ARROW MG B V8 SPORTS
833 Rob Hunkin AES ALFA 33
833 Edward Hunkin AES ALFA 33
891 Chris Hunkin AES ALFA 33
944 Paul Madeley AES PORSCHE 944S2
944 Paul Madeley ARROW PORSCHE 944T
This time next week I'll be away, so don't think that I have keeled over if I haven't posted for a while...
Returning to the fold... Purchased by a confirmed Jaguar enthusiast
26681
Also expected to make a return - with the same owner/driver.
29090
nzeder
08-03-2015, 11:39 AM
It has been a long time since I visited this site. ERC you need to change my car from a Datsun 260z to a Morris Cooper S replica given the caged zed is now in Nelson with a new owner.
Will do Mike - when I get home and also when I have a pic and full details of the 'new' car!
Should be home next Thursday - still with about 200 emails to wade through, so don't expect speedy miracles!
A month before the new season kicks off and we are already up to 41 cars paid up/registered.
14 Adrian Hayman MG BGT V8
15 Phil Laird BMW 318IS
16 Kevin Cantwell PORSCHE 964
20 Geoff Sparkes TRIUMPH Sprint
23 Rob Moston JAGUAR XJ 6
29 Mike Lucas MINI
30 Rod Hemmings TVR 3000M
31 Eddie York JAGUAR XJ40
39 Grant Kern MG TD
42 Des Redgwell VOLVO 242GT
47 Gary Baildon BMW E30 318is
49 Chris Browne ALFA ALFASUD
56 Ray Green MG MAGN8
60 Chris Fraser MORGAN PLUS 8
64 John Palmer MG BGT
70 Ray Green MARCOS VOLVO 3L
72 Karl Sentch DATSUN 240Z
77 Jeremy Thornton PEUGEOT 205 Gti
82 John Nuthall ALFA GT
88 Bruce Manon FORD ESCORT
89 John Ure JAGUAR MARK 2
89.1 John Ure JAGUAR MARK 7
89.2 John Ure JAGUAR XJ12
92 Brian Yates PORSCHE 924S
113 Grant Kern MG SPECIAL
120 John Munro JAGUAR XJ6
135 Don Roy MG BGT V8
137 Glenn Edley PEUGEOT 205 Gti
142 Bruce Kirk VOLVO 142
150 Allan Brook MG BGT
159 Glen Thompson MG B SPORTS
169 Neville Thompson MG BGT
198 John Tomlin TRIUMPH 2500PI
203 Andy Mygind DATSUN 240Z
213 Dave Mallin MG BGT
222 Bruce Jones FORD CAPRI
229 Chris Browne ALFAROMEO ALFASUD TI
246 Tony Olissoff ALFA SUD Ti
279 Barry Hare ROVER VITESSE
280 Ken Williams MERCEDES 280CE
431 Phil Josephs ROVER 220T
616 Dave Mallin MG BGT V8
739 Grant Kern MG B V8 SPORTS
833 Rob Hunkin ALFA 33
833.1 Edward Hunkin ALFA 33
866 Francois Cronje RENAULT R8 GORDINI
891 Chris Hunkin ALFA 33
891.1 Edward Hunkin ALFA 33
911 Steve Rasmussen PORSCHE 911
944 Paul Madeley PORSCHE 944S2
944.1 Paul Madeley PORSCHE 944
Add:
2 Bert Quin ARROW FORD PERANA
8 Mark Parsons ARROW TRIUMPH TR7 V8
21 Bryce Platt AES PORSCHE 924 S
26 Steve Newenham ARROW DATSUN 260 Z
28 Michael Sexton ARROW FORD Escort Mk 1 RS2000
34 Graeme Park ARROW PORSCHE 944S2
37 Darron Curphey ARROW FIAT 131R
48 Ricky Cooper ARROW DATSUN 240Z
66 Todd Forsyth ARROW MG BV8
72 Karl Sentch AES DATSUN 240Z
75 Craig Howser ARROW FORD ZAKSPEED
77 Jeremy Thornton AES PEUGEOT 205 Gti
79 Gary Langsford AES ALFA 75
93 Ivan Selak ARROW FORD ESCORT
115 Chris Barendregt ARROW PORSCHE 944S2
116 Phil Neely AES ALFA ALFETTA
119 Eddie Beresford ARROW Alfa Romeo Alfasud Ti
135 Don Roy AES MG BGT V8
137 Glenn Edley AES PEUGEOT 205 Gti
150 Allan Brook AES MG BGT
158 Tony Vujnovich ARROW FORD PERANA
205 Richard McCarthy AES PEUGEOT 205 GTi
233 Max van Maanen AES ALFA 33
240 Earl Cruickshank ARROW DATSUN 240Z
279 Barry Hare ARROW ROVER VITESSE
281 Paul Chisholm AES VW Golf GTI
295 Mal Chamberlain AES FORD ESCORT
404 Andy Wallace AES BMW 2002Tii
623 Peter Gunter AES RENAULT FUEGO
783 Peter Gunter ARROW SKODA
866 Francois Cronje AES RENAULT R8 GORDINI
910 Simon Mills AES ALFA SUD
AMCO72
08-26-2015, 04:17 AM
One lonely Mini........number 29....Mike Lucas........and not a single Anglia........times are changing. A great lineup never-the-less.
Sadly, you are right AMCO. I am making a start on writing the history of the series and even reading back to my own first newsletters and the low number of participants back then, we haven't had more than 3 Mini's on track at the same time in the last 20 years.
Had we stuck to the original 4 cylinder BMC series rules that I inherited, we would have fallen over within two years - and I doubt anyone would have even noticed.
We haven't seen a Riley 1.5 on track either, even though one was registered initially. Midgets have all given way to MGBs and several of those have now given way to MGB V8s. Guys seem keener on building a Perana Capri V8 - regardless of the expense - and yet no-one wants to run an Anglia and rarely a 4 cylinder Capri, so I am really pleased that Mike Lucas has opted to run a Mini.
We have also lost Triumph Spitfires (there were 3 of those at one stage), plus Triumph 1300's. These cars aren't outclassed either, as the handicap system negates any performance disadvantage anyway. I can only put it down to the scarcity of these cars and the ongoing scarcity of spares for some of them, particularly body and trim panels.
Changing some years ago to "Euro" rather than British, has ensured our survival, though it hasn't been without criticism. But there again right back to season 2, I copped flak for some of the decisions that were made, and in that respect, nothing much has changed!
A pragmatic approach as opposed to a purist approach may upset some people, but I am very happy that by the time I hand it over at the end of this season, the series will be alive and also very well, which it certainly wasn't at the end of year 10.
I hope AMCO that you can join our celebrations June 11th next year, as one of our guests of honour, to celebrate the last 30 years!
AMCO72
08-26-2015, 10:07 PM
Well, ERC, I dont know about a 'Guest of Honour'.......that sounds a bit grand, but thank you for the invitation. Will certainly keep it in mind.
I am not sure that the reason for all the elderly BMC cars being parked up is scarcity of body and trim parts. Rather it is purely a performance, or lack of it, problem. Despite what my mate Dale, of HMC fame, says, drivers do not want to circulate at the rear of the field. I have done a bit of that myself and know the feeling. The HMC brigade is cranking more and more horsepower from these cars that started with about 500hp and are now up into the 800's........dare I say it, to stay in front, or at least be at the sharp end of the grid.......why else would they do it. In other words why spend a lot of dollars if all you are doing is 'having fun'. Podium finishes should not be on your agenda, but clearly they are. The cars are the stars.....yeh right !!!!!
We are lucky with the Mini in that there is a healthy supply of most body bits, but with your zero tolerance on contact in racing, this shouldnt be a problem........yes I know things sometimes get out of hand as the Amco Mini has found out !! I think it is just sheer lack of 'go' that stops these cars from being on the track. This also applies to machines like E type Jaguars for instance, so to save face and preserve the mystique they just dont appear anymore, and quite frankly they are pretty cumbersome to drive spiritedly.
I dont think there is an answer.....just go with the flow......its what the folk want, and the whole series stays alive, which as you have repeatedly said would not have happened if you had dug your toes in and stuck to the original formula.
So you will get a well earned rest at the end of the season, and if anyone has any doubts about whether you have done the right thing or not, they just need to look at the entry for confirmation.
Paul Wilkinson
08-27-2015, 05:11 AM
There must be plenty of 'retired' Mini 7s around that could be relatively easily refitted to become classic race cars. If I wasn't busy flushing all my money away on a scruffy old Lotus, that's what I'd do....
Totally agree Paul. I still have a warm 1300cc engine under my bench, but alas, age and other projects that took far to long and cost far too much will inevitably mean that it will soon need to go to a new home.
What many don't seem to realise is that a handful of Minis or similar at the theoretical slow end of the grid will be able to race amongst themselves, with or without the handicaps, so the more the merrier. Totally agree about the huge horsepower elsewhere (and huge cost) when Classic motorsport sport is still about participation - or should be.
A level playing field is not created by 15" wheels alone!
nzeder
09-07-2015, 11:30 AM
Looking forward to running my mini. Have been a Datsun Zed guy for the 20+ years it will be very different to drive on the track with 60% of the weight of a zed and about 60% less power. The reason for the change was simple. This time last year I was out of work and looking at my almost complete Datsun 260z 2 seater race car and doing the numbers to complete the project plus Ricky a 240z racer ask if I had a spare 260z stub axle. Finding 40 year old stub axles for zed is hard work and bespoke new are expensive. So I changed tactics sell the 260z and with the money for 90% rego on hold zed I purchased a mini k turned into a cooper s replica + a trailer and had some money left over. Also parts can still be purchased new for a lot less than for a Datsun. I still have one Datsun but as this my first classic mini looking forward to giving it a blast around the track this weekend.
And Ray I will take some of those parts from under your bench :)
Another reason for selecting a mini was simple. There weren't any racing in AES anymore so why not bring back a car that has not been seen in the class for a few years.
AMCO72
09-07-2015, 08:51 PM
Hello nzeder........yes is going to be a different kettle of fish driving the Mini compared to the Datsun. What is the state of tune with the engine, and could you post a picture of the car........always interested in looking at another race Mini.
Perhaps your entry will start a resurgence of interest in Minis competing in ERC's excellent race group.
Steve Holmes
09-07-2015, 08:54 PM
Hello nzeder........yes is going to be a different kettle of fish driving the Mini compared to the Datsun. What is the state of tune with the engine, and could you post a picture of the car........always interested in looking at another race Mini.
Perhaps your entry will start a resurgence of interest in Minis competing in ERC's excellent race group.
I'd like to see a photo too. I love the Minis, Imps, and Elfs.
I have a static photograph of Mike's car whilst at Motorsport Fabrications but I'll be driving a camera this weekend at Icebreaker so hopefully, will get one or two action shots and also pics of other new registrations.
We also have on hold, Ken Haycock's Mini Clubman and John Ure of Jaguar fame has purchased an ex Ken Haycock Mini Cooper (not S) that he is hoping to run. We have had a few Minis over the years but never as many as I would have expected, given the availability of parts, from bodyshells to everything else. Pity my 2 Elf projects had to be abandoned 12 years ago. One was going to be a concours 998cc and the other was going to be my version of what the Broadspeed Mini would have looked like had it been based on a Riley! No doubt it wouldn't have got a CoD 'cos it wasn't done in period'... (Posted a pic on the Mini/Imp thread.)
I don't think we have ever had a Hillman Imp registered with the series, which has always been open to Imp and Mini powered cars, such as Davrian, Clan, Ginetta G15, De Joux, GTM, Unipower etc. The nearest we got to that was Adrian Blackburn's Targa Mini Marcos for a season. I think there is a Mini Marcos for sale on Trade Me at the moment.
Just to bring you up to date with the registrations for this season, we are now up to 84 drivers - well over 95 cars - with two or three paying at the moment to get in before the weekend.
One or two more recent cars accepted include ex U2K Cup 205 Peugeots who have found the restrictions of U2K not to their liking. That only goes to show that U2K rules are being introduced or enforced to keep it the way they want but European cars can still move into another class.
No doubt I'll get pilloried for allowing them in, along with a newer thoroughbred, but we are now getting a higher percentage of cars that could be deemed newer, but without more Minis, Imps, Hillman Hunters, Triumph Spitfires, Lotus Elans, Daimler SP250's, Riley 1.5s, Wolseley 1500s, Morgans older Jaguars, MG Midgets, Reliant Scimitars etc. joining the fray, which they are not doing in sufficient numbers, I don't see that we have a choice.
So far we have a grid of 19 AES cars and 10 Arrow Wheels for Icebreaker. Quite why so many always enter late is anyone's guess... That is only a third of those paid up and if numbers do not hit a total of 30, then we will combine the groups to assist in a faster running meeting - but also to provide a better spectacle for spectators. To not do so would make me a hypocrite, as cars on track are still the only thing that will ever make spectating attractive.
Steve Holmes
09-07-2015, 11:38 PM
I think there is a Mini Marcos for sale on Trade Me at the moment.
Yes you are right: http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/specialist-cars/competition-cars/auction-922567381.htm
30156
AMCO72
09-08-2015, 12:05 AM
The Mini Marcos belongs to my friend Robin Greenland. Robin is well known in Mini circles and I have raced with him a few times. Amazingly the Marcos is new, brand new......it was a body that was never completed. Robin has been playing around with it for some years, but due to a change in direction of life it is for sale. It needs completing but everything is there. The colour would not be my choice but everyone is different. I think the asking price is $20,000, but I know that Robin would 'negotiate' !!!!!!! He had quite a collection of Minis but they have all gone except the Marcos.
A bit of history here. Whangarei Street race 2000 - ex TV
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TzSpdncPE6Q
nzeder
09-10-2015, 02:09 AM
Robin's Mini Marcos is very nice - I had a quick look over it when I picked up the trailer I purchased from Robin. After I decided not to race a Datsun Zed in the ERC I did think about a Ginetta G15 - a imp powered kitcar from back in the day. But then thought like the Marcos not a lot of race history from back in the day and given NZ festival's all seem to be salon's as was raced in NZ then a Mini was the good choice.
A Ginetta G15
30210
Ice Breaker this weekend and a fair few 'new faces'. About 41 in total across our two groups at the moment which is about half the current paid up membership. Pretty good for the first round of the season. A slight imbalance between the slower group and the faster group - about twice as many in the slower group, which I am not exactly unhappy about.
We could have a look at the lap time split, to even up the group numbers - but I know that if we do, all that will happen is that we may lose some of the faster ones in the slower group, so a bit pointless really. As long as we can get a total of over 30 cars out there, I think we are probably justified in keeping the two groups separate.
I may have some good news about the Festival shortly... But first, I have to poll the current drivers. I may be dictatorial, but some decisions are best made after consultation with the membership!
nzeder
09-12-2015, 07:15 AM
Was have fun this morning learning to drive the mini just before #2 decided it needed to cool down and throw it's self out of the side of the block. Never mind these thing happen with engines in unknown condition.
AMCO72
09-12-2015, 07:48 AM
nzeder......did I not say that driving the mini would be a different kettle of fish to the Datsun !!!!!!! perhaps you need a more accurate rev counter........some old engines dont take too kindly to 8,000 rpm.....:) :) You may have a saviour in Ray with his 'spare' engine, otherwise its lots of $$$$$$$. You may be lucky if the damage has confined itself to the block and not spread to the gearbox as is so often the case with a Mini, so something will be salvageable, but a whole lot of work before the next outing. Ah, the joys of Motoracing.....:)
Posted a pre blow up pic on my Mix of Pics thread... Car sounded great and looked good, so very sad that it let go so quickly.
nzeder
09-13-2015, 12:53 AM
Was have fun this morning learning to drive the mini just before #2 decided it needed to cool down and throw it's self out of the side of the block. Never mind these thing happen with engines in unknown condition.
True I don't know how accurate the Rev counter is even if I did not go past 6000. Was going OK started to get hot quickly then I start to get out of it and drive back to the pits. Then started to smoke up a bit then it went bang before I could get back to the pits. I will remove and strip and see what bits are OK and if the block could be repaired if the hole is below the bore then have a spare engine once Ray and I can sort out a deal on the one under his bench.
Congratulations to Rex Ferrall on his renewal today - he's our centurion of the year! In other words, he's the 100th driver signed up for the season, making it 7 years on the trot we have had over 100 drivers and 9 out of the last 10 years. There are still 3 drivers who are down to race shortly who haven't paid and a few taking a break for various reasons.
Added to the obvious attractions of U2K, BMW, Alfa, MG and Classic Japanese, it just shows the real strength of numbers in the classic categories in this area.
Oldfart
10-20-2015, 05:47 AM
Not getting at you NZeder, but why do so many folks with car maladies they are aware of try to get back to the pits? Surely much cheaper to stop on the track side, or has the propensity for race officials to stop races made folks feel guilty about getting off the track?
Often times means there is a trail of some form of slippery stuff making it a whole lot worse.
John McKechnie
10-20-2015, 06:18 AM
Getting off the battlefield and out of the falling off zone ?
nzeder has taken possession of my much loved 1293cc engine. The state of his original engine beggars belief. No wonder it went bang. Either someone needed a stronger arm or a torque wrench or better still, should leave building engines to those who know what they are doing. At least my engine was originally built by someone trustworthy and I sincerely hope that as a spare engine, it serves Mike well. I never even got beyond the running in stage with it, so looking forward to seeing how well it goes. Not a race engine but built for fast road use.
Welcome to the renewals and the new drivers. We are now on 108 paid up for the year. Slightly up on this time last year.
Entries for the Porsche Festival are a little lower than the promises, but still great grids for each weekend. Some are doing weekend 1 only, some weekend 2 only and as fair few doing both weekends. Friday will be as last year, with a morning practice and an afternoon scratch race. The other four races will be handicaps, as they proved to be very popular last year and no winner is ever guaranteed.
As at end November, 28 for weekend 1 and 39 for weekend 2 - and one or two known tardy ones no doubt...
The man to watch from scratch will probably be Bruce Manon - again, but this time in his own car, not Mike Sexton's.
Welcome back to Racing Ray Williams, who has bought the Neil Tolich Perana Capri.
Rob Berrgren has rejoined with ex Bob Groves Perana Capri.
Dr John Elliott is also now also part of the ERC, running with Arrow Wheels with his Holden Torana.
All are experienced drivers with great cars - though Rob had to scratch from Sunday's event due to cracked brake rotors, discovered at the Friday track day.
I believe that Paul Halford may run the 250GTO Ferrari recreation on weekend 2 of the Festival, where our grid is now totally full... (46 car maximum. I think we have 50) Weekend 1 there are only a couple of spaces left. Great support for the Festival.
Entry for weekend 1 of the Festival:
1 Alan Ferguson BMW M8 ®
2 Bert Quin FORD PERANA
10 Neil Fraser LANCIA DELTA INTEGRALE
17 Peter Northin FORD ESCORT
18 Ken Northin FORD ESCORT
19 Kerry Chadderton PORSCHE 911SC
21 Bryce Platt PORSCHE 924 S
29 Mike Lucas MINI COOPER S
36 Win Jacob JAGUAR XJS 3.6
40 Adrian Dobbe VAUXHALL VIVA HB
48 Ricky Cooper DATSUN 240Z
64 John Palmer MG BGT
70 Ray Green MARCOS VOLVO 3L
72 Karl Sentch DATSUN 240Z
77 Jeremy Thornton PEUGEOT 205 Gti
79 Gary Langsford ALFA 75
88 Bruce Manon FORD ESCORT
89 John Ure JAGUAR XJ12
92 Brian Yates PORSCHE 924S
93 Ivan Selak FORD ESCORT
96 Steve Rasmussen PORSCHE 911 RS
150 Allan Brook MG BGT
158 Tony Vujnovich FORD PERANA
181 Ron Findlay FORD PERANA
203 Andy Mygind DATSUN 240Z
205 Richard McCarthy Jr PEUGEOT 205 GTi
280 Ken Williams MERCEDES 280CE
331 John Hudson BMW 320
616 Dave Mallin MG BGT V8
635 Zachary Lawrence BMW M635CSI
739 Grant Kern MG B V8 SPORTS
944 Paul Madeley PORSCHE 944S2
996 David Heron PORSCHE 996
First session up this weekend at 9am! Also of course, first after lunch.
As last year. Practice Friday morning.
First session after lunch is a scratch race.
Saturday and Sunday, 2 handicap races, same time slots.
Paul Halford is now running the Ferrari in Classic Trial.
SPman
01-13-2016, 02:55 AM
A Ginetta G15
30210 A nice looking little car - does the whole arse end lift up? I assume the motor is in the Imp position.
Sadly, Paul Halford has had to pull out -broken wrist.
Phil Laird out - broken leg.
Couple of others out with mechanical issues. Par for the course.
Horrendous traffic problems to and from the track today. A total of 4 hours getting there and back for documentation...
Allan
01-14-2016, 07:28 PM
What caused the traffic problems Ray?
Heading south, just after Hill Rd, Manurewa Collision between a car and a truck carrying human waste... Yeuk! Needed an extensive clean up which took a while. I pulled off the Motorway at Manukau and it took an hour to get to Manurewa. Then made a big mistake and came off at the Bombays and it took a good 10 minutes, just to get out of the BP filling station.
On the way home, an accident on the harbour Bridge heading north.
In sharp contrast, left home about 6:05 this morning and it was a dream run, down to the motorway and on it. Traffic heavy at 3pm heading back and a crawl from about Tip Top corner.
AMCO72
01-16-2016, 06:10 AM
I was hoping that the Mini of Mike Lucas was going to uphold the marque name, but he seems, by MyLaps, to be having a very indifferent time of it..........whats going on. I know he has a new engine courtesy of Ray Green.......is it giving trouble? Hope he can rectify the problems and have a better day tomorrow.
Teething problems AMCO! Not helped by a dodgy core plug (too many years stuck under the bench) then a fuel pump that wasn't delivering. Mike stuck with his own distributor and points but I did include an Aldon distributor with electronic ignition, which will be one of his next jobs.
It only has a road cam in it so it never was going to be a quick car with that engine, but at least he finished the last race!
Great racing again though AMCO. Close and only a couple of very minor touches.
As posted on Facebook, that was my last circuit race today...
AMCO72
01-17-2016, 05:33 AM
Thanks Ray.........I did mention you in despatches on FB......
nzeder
01-17-2016, 08:26 AM
All a learning curve given mini's and the A series are new to me. As Ray stated had some issues, water on the garage floor the day the engine first started on Tuesdays night. Then the top (not correct and old) radiator hose let go on day 1. Day 2 the car only managed 3 laps each time due to fuel issues.....fuel pump was failing. Today got to finish 1 race then came in on the last lap after more fuel starvation started in the last race. Yokohama A032 slide around a lot :) still have learn how to drive a mini correctly have been a rwd guy for soooo long now.
AMCO72
01-17-2016, 09:17 PM
I am glad you managed to sort out some of your problems Mike.....as you will have found out driving a Mini on the track is a whole new ball game. Some people, like me, never get to grips with it, so I wish you luck. The Yokohamas are pretty useless on the track as you found out. Some experimenting with tyre pressures may help but you really need to get some good....read expensive...tyres, of which there is only a tiny choice in 10inch, unlike other sizes where there seems to plenty of stuff available. I did notice there were a lot of non dot rated tyres, with 'funny' tread patterns, being used by competitors, even though they arent supposed to be.
We may have to look at the tyre issue - again. it seems that you can get a WoF for some of these tyres yet everyone agrees that they wouldn't use them in the wet.
The rules appear to be that if a tyre is 10" wide and the grooves are only the middle 5", as long at there is more than the 2mm tread, the tyre is deemed legal... no lateral grooves for water dispersion are required. That needs looking at as we are at the stage where the fastest 2 cars are 3 seconds a lap faster than the rest - which I don't really like.
Maybe we'll have to re-introduce the speed bar as although Bruce Manon is a capable and safe racer, I'd hate to think what would happen if those with lot less talent could race at that speed.
nigel watts
01-17-2016, 10:55 PM
32695
Grant Ellwood
01-18-2016, 12:35 AM
I am glad you managed to sort out some of your problems Mike.....as you will have found out driving a Mini on the track is a whole new ball game. Some people, like me, never get to grips with it, so I wish you luck. The Yokohamas are pretty useless on the track as you found out. Some experimenting with tyre pressures may help but you really need to get some good....read expensive...tyres, of which there is only a tiny choice in 10inch, unlike other sizes where there seems to plenty of stuff available. I did notice there were a lot of non dot rated tyres, with 'funny' tread patterns, being used by competitors, even though they arent supposed to be.
I was always impressed by those who could switch from FWD to RWD regularly and be on the button instantly - Bryan Bate and Brian Hartley come to mind, both Manawatuis, something in the water perhaps....
Kiwiboss
01-18-2016, 12:41 AM
We may have to look at the tyre issue - again. it seems that you can get a WoF for some of these tyres yet everyone agrees that they wouldn't use them in the wet.
The rules appear to be that if a tyre is 10" wide and the grooves are only the middle 5", as long at there is more than the 2mm tread, the tyre is deemed legal... no lateral grooves for water dispersion are required. That needs looking at as we are at the stage where the fastest 2 cars are 3 seconds a lap faster than the rest - which I don't really like.
Ray, this does need addressing(I believe) but I dare anyone to bolt on a set of 2 stripe Hankook DOT slicks to their everyday regular road car and drive it through any LTSA testing station to get a WOF, I bet they will NOT get one.
Back yard WOF garage sure, she'll be rite mate(we all know how it goes).
Ray, this does need addressing(I believe) but I dare anyone to bolt on a set of 2 stripe Hankook DOT slicks to their everyday regular road car and drive it through any LTSA testing station to get a WOF, I bet they will NOT get one.
Back yard WOF garage sure, she'll be rite mate (we all know how it goes).
I wouldn't call Bruce Manon a back street garage Dale, but the rules are apparently quite clear and he checked it out with them before purchasing. It appears to be a loophole that needs closing.
Thanks for that. A great reminder of my final race weekend. Shows quite clearly where the seat pan is lower than the sill. Would probably fail the Police 4" block of wood test even though it is standard! At least Nigel's pic shows the car's best side.
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Car may now be for sale needing a little TLC but with a stack of accumulated paperwork, older spares, original trim and 5 original 13" Cosmic wheels etc.
Kiwiboss
01-18-2016, 03:46 AM
I wouldn't call Bruce Manon a back street garage Dale, but the rules are apparently quite clear and he checked it out with them before purchasing. It appears to be a loophole that needs closing.
Yes I agree Ray, let me reword, As an LTSA testing station would have no motorsport conflict of interest, hence an opinion made would be totally un-bias and based on regulation only! does that make sense? my research on this sometime back when these tyres first became available is they would not pass them, and I didn't want to buy 4 new tyres to try. Tony Roberts has more information as he'd been in contact with LTSA head office when this Hankook tyre discussion came up via the H&C commission a couple of years back.
nzeder
01-18-2016, 12:27 PM
Well I do like to follow the rules and as much as I would love to have a Arden alloy head on a mini it will have to be a 5 port for a number of years to come. And iron as the only alloy head I can find that was used in period is the 8 port Arden head.
Gerald have you tried the Hoosier historic bias ply rubber. I have read these are good for classes that don't allow slicks but twice the price of the A032R.
Steve Holmes
01-18-2016, 07:01 PM
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A neat looking car Ray. Its so incredibly low. Must have taken years to master getting in and out and still looking dignified. I know I'd embarrass myself pretty badly contorting my frame to negotiate this one.
Just out of interest, why are you hanging up the helmet? Surely as long as you're enjoying driving you'd keep racing?
I've sent you a note Steve. Sorry, I missed out a few people yesterday. Yup, getting in and out isn't too easy, especially on the street if parked at the kerb! Easier than a fully caged Ferrari 430 though.
Oldfart
01-19-2016, 06:31 AM
Ray, I have not had any personal involvement with your series, but am sure that many may be glad you are solely on the sidelines. (Take that whichever way you want, but it's meant as a jest) I did love to see the Marcos out there on the rare occasions when I got down, We do need to see more of the different cars, and without your input, both as competitor and co-ordinator NZ motorsport would be a much less rich environment
Snoozin
01-24-2016, 09:26 AM
Great grids by you jokers over the past couple of weekends! Standout cars for me include the Alfa 75, and Rons Alfasud (I am a bit Alfa biased...) but otherwise a grid of well turned out cars all being driven well!
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1522/24281077190_47a4c8422a_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/CZCSiU)IMG_5139 (https://flic.kr/p/CZCSiU) by Richard Opie (https://www.flickr.com/photos/snoozinrichy/), on Flickr
You might need to have a word to this chap, wouldn't want these unorthodox lines into Turn 10 to become tooooo popular!
Rod Grimwood
01-24-2016, 09:44 AM
Great grids by you jokers over the past couple of weekends! Standout cars for me include the Alfa 75, and Rons Alfasud (I am a bit Alfa biased...) but otherwise a grid of well turned out cars all being driven well!
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1522/24281077190_47a4c8422a_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/CZCSiU)IMG_5139 (https://flic.kr/p/CZCSiU) by Richard Opie (https://www.flickr.com/photos/snoozinrichy/), on Flickr
You might need to have a word to this chap, wouldn't want these unorthodox lines into Turn 10 to become tooooo popular!
The only words he needs to hear is 'Great effort to do 2 complete 360s at full noise and still line up for the sweeper and not hit 1 of about 20 cars around him' He was hung out to dry by being moved onto the grass but thank god it all ended good. Impressive handicapping to have full field all arriving at sweeper at same time.
Looking at photo he is watching were he is going (backwards fast) and dab on picks brings her back around. I gave him thumb up when he came into pits and he shrugged and put hands in air.
Top effort.
PS Snoozin I know what you were meaning, and top shot, in right spot again.
Michael Clark
01-24-2016, 09:09 PM
I guess this forum is as good a place as any to tell you all about the presentation that was made by Deb Day to Ray and his wife at the conclusion of the prizegiving yesterday afternoon. It celebrated the 20 plus years that they have put into this series and resulted in every person in the room rising to their feet - a fitting tribute indeed!
Fantastic shot!!!!
Weekend 1, Ricky spent all weekend trying to resolve issues with the car. It wouldn't rev, despite replacing just about everything possible in the electrics department. Not sure even now what caused the problems but he was back on the pace Saturday and Sunday of weekend 2.
Check out the incar video for race #17 - about 8 minutes in. For my money, one of the best drivers in the series.
https://www.youtube.com/user/240ZRicky
I'll try and post links of any following cars video.
Adam Jones - who won the last handicap race by a split second, is a professional film maker (he did the Bruce Manon video) and is going to put an ERC video together, using a mix of shots and hopefully, also including the Hampton Downs video of external shots.
I haven't fully analysed the two weekends as yet, but weekend 1 was 32 cars and weekend 2 was 42. Sad that injuries and cars broken before the weekends, reduced the fields a wee bit, but if spectators enjoyed the ERC Series racing, please post a comment on the NZFMR facebook page...
To put things into perspective, just one safety car intervention over the two weekends, when one car (#19 - Porsche) had an electrical smoke up and ended up parked in an unsafe position.
Couple of minor dings, with one driver sent home on the Sunday of weekend 2.
No red flags, no exploding cars, very few yellow flags and lots of big grins. Very, very proud of the guys who, as a series, fly under the radar, with virtually zero pre event publicity, despite some fantastic, close racing - with OVERTAKING!!!!
I guess this forum is as good a place as any to tell you all about the presentation that was made by Deb Day to Ray and his wife at the conclusion of the prizegiving yesterday afternoon. It celebrated the 20 plus years that they have put into this series and resulted in every person in the room rising to their feet - a fitting tribute indeed!
Very humbling Michael! If it wasn't for the fact that the guys are such a delight to deal with (most of them, most of the time!) then I wouldn't have hung around for so long.
Few people outside the series would realise just how strong the camaraderie is, with humour a very dominant aspect. Of all the excellent classic/historic series around, we believe that ERC epitomises the real values of classic racing as well as any other and probably, that adherence to a 100% reliance on handicap races levels the playing field better than any technical rules based system.
My own thanks not only to Deb (and her team) but also to Tony Rutherford for insisting I did 3 "Hot laps" in the safety car, but all the officials who have supported both me and the series for so long.
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I still have a couple of race meetings to go and the awards dinner June 11th, before I hand over to Chris Browne and although there are on-going challenges to be faced, we have always agreed on the philosophy and I will of course offer Chris every bit of support he needs.
944turbo
01-25-2016, 02:59 AM
Brilliant racing by all, especially the ERC Classic Race Series (NZ) which again had the best supported grid and anecdotally the best racing to watch, but unfortunately never seems to get the recognition it deserves. Perhaps the powers that be could look at the numbers we get in our races and the fact that most classic racers do so on a relatively small budget and acknowledge this more openly and support the series (and other similar series). As a racer the delays between races and car recovery times can be mind numbing, just a suggestion but could we not run fast recovery vehicles (such as the large quads at Taupo) and quickly pull the stricken cars off behind safety barriers rather than red flag or yellow flag races for multiple laps. Also a safety car just past the pit entry allowing the finished race cars to exit the track whilst the next grid could leave the pit exit behind another safety car and get the grid ready much quicker. Both these point should save a massive amount of time during each race meeting. On a positive note the cars at the event were stunning and a big thanks to all that attended, also a thank you here for the fantastic work done by Ray Green over the millennia, no pressure but boy has Mr Brown got big shoes to fill.
Award for the ERC Series "Spirit of the Meeting" was to Alan Brook, who had a hiccup Friday weekend 1 with the car, then drove well throughout the two weekends. Great support from wife Chrissie who "Mother Hens" the drivers with grid sheets and making sure all is OK.
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944turbo
01-25-2016, 07:44 PM
Well done Alan & Chrissie
beowulf
01-27-2016, 07:40 AM
I guess this forum is as good a place as any to tell you all about the presentation that was made by Deb Day to Ray and his wife at the conclusion of the prizegiving yesterday afternoon. It celebrated the 20 plus years that they have put into this series and resulted in every person in the room rising to their feet - a fitting tribute indeed!
I wasn't at the prize giving but if anyone deserved a presentation it was Ray. A fantastic job over 20 odd years, starting with the old BMC series. Well done Ray, enjoy the time off, I look forward to seeing you at the track looking a lot less frazzled. May your series grow and prosper.
Richard
Thanks Richard.
Just had this pic posted to me from Donn White, of the first ever grid for the BMC Series, November 23rd 1986 at Taupo. He has named the front runners, so we are not looking to identify the grid.
Tony Sturm won that first race (MGB) and AMCO (Mini Cooper S) won the series.
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AMCO72
01-28-2016, 06:54 PM
Can just see Stu Hoopers Austin A35 on the second row. Stu was always an entertaining driver.......he managed to upend the Austin in one race........cant remember the details, but I dont think we saw the car again. They always looked a bit top heavy, but some folk made them go pretty well.........
This is the year 1 summary of the original BMC Series giving the points earned and also how many years each driver registered including the roll over to the Leisuretime/Tracer years and the AES/Arrow Wheels sponsorship years.
Up to the end of last season, we still had less than 400 drivers who have ever registered, including those who may have registered but never actually raced and therefore scored zero points. As at today, 113 paid up registered drivers for this season - and they are still joining!
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Interesting that of the above list, no less than 8 drivers never registered again. I wonder why? I'd love to know.
AMCO72
01-29-2016, 04:51 AM
I have to say that I won the series that year NOT because of any outstanding driving ability on my part........in my opinion, but rather that I had the best car for the job.......in my opinion!!!!!!!!! It all changed in subsequent years when everyone else got in on the act and cars became increasingly modified, and driving became more seriously focused. We still managed to get away with surprisingly little panel damage, considering our amateur status, but there was some. Inevitably, some of the gentlemanly 'after you Sir' went out the door, and a bit more 'out of my way sonny I'm coming through' became the norm. But compared to today we were pretty slow......a 50 second lap of old Taupo was pretty damn good, and most of us could get round in under 56 seconds. Amazing that it was 30 years ago.....sometimes seems just like last week.
Interesting AMCO that I perceived the same thing when I inherited the series (and the reason for it). At the end of my first season, I realised that it was indeed one or two of the faster guys who really wanted to win, and saw that as a disincentive to the 'also-rans', hence the move to 100% handicaps..
The rest as they say, is history. There can of course only be one winner in any race, but if there is a field of just 3, scrapping for overall honours, it isn't really my cup of tea.
This site is causing me hiccups today!
ERC Series entry for what is my last round before I hand over the Series. Might have to contact Steve to change my TRS name but without losing all previous posts.
Grant Kern is giving his "Cream Cracker" MG TD a run! Sadly, I don't think we'll see the MGCC Series running next season.
2 Bert Quin Ford Capri Perana Rep
6 Mal Clark Rover P6 3500
28 Michael Sexton Ford Escort RS2000
69 Dennis McConnell Ford Escort Lotus Twin Cam
79 Gary Langsford Alfa 75
83 Nigel Patterson BMW 320i
88 Bruce Manon Ford Escort RS2000
93 Ivan Selak Escort YB Cosworth
117 John Sampson Ford Capri RS2600
119 Eddie Beresford Alfa Romeo Alfasud Ti
120 John Munro Jaguar XJ6
203 Andy Mygind Datsun 240Z
279 Barry Hare Rover SD1
431 Phil Josephs Rover Tomcat
944 Paul Madeley Porsche 944
996 David Heron Porsche 996
17 Peter Northin Ford Escort RS2000
20 Geoff Sparkes Triumph Dolomite Sprint
21 Bryce Platt Porsche 924S
29 Mike Lucas Austin Mini Cooper S
30 Rod Hemmings TVR 3000M
34 Graeme Park Porsche 944S2
39 Grant Kern MG TD
45 John Nuthall Alfa Romeo GT
47 Gary Baildon BMW 325is
49 Chris Browne Alfa Romeo Alfasud
77 Jeremy Thornton Peugeot 205 GTI
92 Brian Yates Porsche 924S
116 Phil Neely Alfa Romeo Alfetta
135 Don Roy MGB GT V8
150 Allan Brook MGB GT
205 Richard McCarthy Peugeot 205 GTI
213 Dave Mallin MGB GT
231 John Hudson BMW 2002
233 Max Van Maanen Alfa Romeo 33 (16v)
280 Ken Williams Mercedes 280CE
503 Steve Cowie Fiat Bravo HGT
833 Robert Hunkin Alfa 33
866 Francois Cronje Renault R8 Gordini
891 Chris Hunkin Alfa 33
Just a few days now to the celebration of 30 years of the Series and between 150 and 160 people attending the awards dinner - and my hand over to Chris Browne. Then I can swan off June 20th for a long break!
Massive thanks to BNT, CRC and AES for their very generous support of the evening and the expectation that we'll raise a fair bit for the Child Cancer charity.
Also an evening for a load of laughs!
As expected, a load of laughs! Look out for Adam's excellent ERC promo video. Will be on YouTube, but may need one sector censoring!
Time now for me to wrap up, but before I do, I'll post a list of the award winners and the amount we raised for Child Cancer. Off overseas on Monday, so will have to get my skates on.
Allan
06-12-2016, 11:59 PM
Enjoy your trip.
Fast Files - YouTube celebration of our series.
Went down very well on Saturday night!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LMFoDobEceg
We are sad to record the passing of former VW Golf driver, Pete Gannaway, from Napier. A long battle with cancer, finally lost on Thursday.
Lovely bloke and our condolences to Sarah. At Pete's request, definitely no public funeral. He hated funerals...
RiP
I've just realised that I didn't get time to post the list of trophy winners for my last season before I went away. Please note, that as a matter of policy, for the last 10 years, we have never published the points before the Awards Dinner, as this series is still about participation. So much so, that any driver who attends a meeting, even if his/her car fails on the first lap of practice, will get points awarded.
Congratulations to all drivers, past and present, for a fantastic final race season for me - and massive thanks for their support, camaraderie and humour (and tolerance...) over the previous 20 years. A great journey with lots of very special memories.
Long may the series continue, with the same philosophies that have ensured its longevity.
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The TOPS trophies were donated by myself under my trading name of TOPS...
We are sad to announce that after a long battle with brain tumours Colin Craig passed away this morning at 7:05.
Colin raced and rallied a Ford Escort but also had a strong association with Alfa Romeo people and occasionally shared David Frith's car.
A lovely man with a wonderfully dry wit, he will be missed. Our condolences to Steph who has been a real rock over the last couple of years.
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Colin, far left, front row.
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We also lost Ivan Selak December 13th, to cancer.
Although a long time car person, I'm not sure that Ivan had too much race experience prior to running his very quick Escort in the ERC Series, where he pedalled it extremely well and was one of the 3 fastest cars in recent times.
Another genuinely nice guy who will be missed.
Pic taken at what was his next to last race meeting, in October.
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PS: Neil Tolich may drive the car at the Kenny Smith Festival in January, even if only for demo laps.
Following on from the above - this was sent out to the ERC contingent yesterday:
1970 Ford Escort Mk 1 (Bluey), a beautifully developed, no expense spared, race Escort. In Ivan’s hands it was always a front runner. Neil Tolich, who raced it for Ivan at the January Festival at Hampton Downs, commented that it was the “most sublime race car I have ever driven”. Neil also said that the fresh Bruce Manon BDG twin cam engine was a delight with a huge spread of torque and power (330+). Strong and reliable, with no need to rev it over 8000 (it can do 9000+) to get to the front of the grid! It is now fitted with a fresh 5 speed T5 Cosworth gearbox. The Escort’s braking and its ability to carry speed thru bumpy corners is stunning. This car will appeal to anyone wanting one of the country’s finest race Escorts that is remarkably easy to drive flat out and can actually win races. Many spares also available in including a sequential 6 speed gearbox. Car plus wet/dry wheels and tyres, $75,000.
1965 Cortina GT Aeroflow. As new… never raced since its full rebuild. Stunning in flawless black paint with silver side flash. 5 speed T5 gearbox. New Bruce Manon YB Cosworth engine built for torque and longevity… about 220hp at 7000rpm. Road registered and great for Targa/tarmac rallies and racetracks. A rare classic race car, impeccably built. $35,000.
New covered race trailer. Purpose built, used once. Magnificent in every detail. No expense spared. Full height load area. Internal measurements 5.6m long, 2m high, 1.98m between wheel wells, 2.4 m internal width. Electric winch, work bench, tyre racks. Huge rear door folds down electrically to act as load ramp. Weighs over a tonne (plus race car) and needs a full size ute or SUV tow car. Trailer price under build cost at $25,000.
I won't publish telephone numbers on here for obvious reasons, but contact Neil Tolich or Paul Dunkley. If you need phone numbers, send me a PM.
Once again, some very sad news. Sunday, we lost Tony Sturm, who was the first ever winner of a BMC Series race, back in the 1986/87 season. He finished 3rd overall, just 5 points behind Gerald Fogg, driving an MGB Sports.
He raced with the Series for a total of 17 seasons, with a bit of a layoff, until he bought the ex-Derek Prior MGB. Many will remember his horrific crash at Taupo which destroyed the car and put Tony in hospital for about 3 months.
In recent times, I believe he was considering doing some trackwork again.
Once again, a lovely bloke who will be sadly missed, as he has been attending most ERC races in recent times, catching up with the many people who considered him a dear friend.
Sadly, I won't be able to attend the funeral, which will be on Saturday May 27th, midday at Meadowbank.
At this rate, there will be a fair grid of ex-racers upstairs.
RiP Tony, I was privileged to know you.
Kiwiboss
05-22-2017, 08:37 PM
Once again, some very sad news. Sunday, we lost Tony Sturm, who was the first ever winner of a BMC Series race, back in the 1986/87 season. He finished 3rd overall, just 5 points behind Gerald Fogg, driving an MGB Sports.
He raced with the Series for a total of 17 seasons, with a bit of a layoff, until he bought the ex-Derek Prior MGB. Many will remember his horrific crash at Taupo which destroyed the car and put Tony in hospital for about 3 months.
In recent times, I believe he was considering doing some trackwork again.
Once again, a lovely bloke who will be sadly missed, as he has been attending most ERC races in recent times, catching up with the many people who considered him a dear friend.
Sadly, I won't be able to attend the funeral, which will be on Saturday May 27th, midday at Meadowbank.
At this rate, there will be a fair grid of ex-racers upstairs.
RiP Tony, I was privileged to know you.
Knew who he was but didn't know him that well Ray but very sad............RIP Tony Sturm another racer lost......we seem to be loosing a generation of racers these days which is sad. Dale M
Re #401. Clark Proctor bought the Escort and John Honore the Cortina.
First time out on track for the Cortina at Icebreaker. Not surprisingly, John was finding his feet after his Ferrari, but there again, I seem to remember his graduation to the Ferrari from a Holden Commodore also took a bit of getting used to.
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2022 trophy winners
Congratulations to the trophy winners for Season 36 (2021-2022) who were revealed at the dinner last night!
Marque Awards
TOPS Jaguar Win Jacob (294)
Jason Nicholl Porsche Bryce Platt (302)
Sutherland BMW John Blewett (457)
TOPS MG Gordon Harkness (421)
Simon Mills Alfa Romeo Wendy Metcalfe (414)
John Tomlin Ford Tony Vujnovich (712) Ford
Country Awards
Mark Rantin German Phil Josephs (569) BMW
TOPS British George Adams (564) TVR
Italian Brett Hickman (442) Alfa
Major Awards
BMC 4 Cylinder Glen Thompson(595) MG
Top Saloon (Tracer) Des Redgwell (607) Volvo
Modern (Post 1990) Ian Burkhill (587) BMW
Stephen Harris (Grp 2) Peter Bromley (854) BMW
Arrow Wheels (Grp 1) Sheridan Broadbent (745) BMW
Most Sporting - Convenor's award Gerry Kessels Porsche
For next season, it will be the Arrow Wheels series as the AES sponsorship since the sad passing of Steve Harris has not been maintained. All races will be combined grids but maintaining the existing two speed groups philosophy.
Great to see trophies won by Wendy Metcalfe and Sheridan Broadbent - both against considerable opposition. No 'Fast Frog' trophy this year as no drivers ran French cars and the Triumph Trophy hasn't been awarded for a while.
There were times when we had TR3a, Spitfire, Toledo, Vitesse, TR6, TR7 V8, Dolomite Sprint, Triumph 2.5/2000, racing.
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