MEETING HELD
13th April 2009
Easter
Bank Holiday Monday
After the winter shut down the long awaited season opener on Easter Monday saw Brampton open its gates for the 2009 season, lots of things happened in the closed season to get the track ready for the days action and i would like to give a huge welcome to John C. (mc on race days) who is now part promoter along with Mick, your hours of dedication into the track is well appreciated by one and all.
The difference is apparent as soon as you enter the track now with spectators cars been sent one way into the car park and race cars through the pit entrance gate. Can we please stress again NO SPECTATORS CARS IN THE PITS this is an insurance requirement. For the minority that again decided to park their cars in the pits later in the day this will not be tolerated and racing shall be stopped next time until the cars are removed to the appropriate area, please can people respect this ruling as such a little thing is not to much to ask. Thanks for your help and cooperation with this.
The pits filled up quickly with a good field of cars for all groups, great to see new drivers in all groups as well with some very nice cars turned out indeed and a credit here has to go to their owners. The specials had a large field of cars with two visiting drivers testing the water from trent raceway, racing in this group was as always fast and well fought and it looks like some great battles could go on again this year. The defending champion from last season 44 Dean Gelder having a quiet day by his standards but an awful long way to go yet, with some more familiar faces returning to this group it will be the one to watch closely as it could be any ones title this year with five or six drivers in very strong cars to contest the fight, who's your money on?
The Juniors are a credit again to the parents who put so much time and effort into these cars and we had some really smart cars, so smart in fact i'd say they where the best presented group on this opening day. 117 Daniel Wragg once again with an immaculate car, but really shining also was 217 Ashley Brewster with an ultra smart 106 pug. Top of the bunch was the Stinkbridge Junior of 14 Josh Thomson (sign writing by legend banger driver 09 Andy Holmes) rumour has it one Junior car that was absent is to a higher standard which should be a real pleasure to see when it arrives. Some new faces to the group also and a few bumps along the way for the inexperienced with one Junior very very lucky after been hit after he rolled, young Shane Field getting hit very hard in the floor from new driver Thomas Dane totally writing young Shane's car off, luckily Shane walked away. Again testament to the preparation that goes into these cars to make them safe for the youngsters to race.
The 1500cc Bangers were light on numbers for the first day, the lower engine limit is designed to keep some of the larger cars from the group as it is designed as an entry level for racing to keep costs down allowing cars to last a driver more than one meeting. The reason behind the 1500cc rule is that some of the 1600cc cars around now are deemed to hard for this type of racing, example 1600 Mondeo or Bluebird as these cars are widely used on the national Banger scene, the lower cc limit did not detract from making the day entertaining for those who raced in the group. With all cars quite even on power it led to lots of spins and hits but all in with the rules of the group, numbers may grow steadily in this group as Brampton hopes to keep the contact at this level for this group this year and not allow anyone to blitz the cars.
The Mini Bangers joined us again this season with a nice field of cars for the opener, all the drivers made a real effort in the paint and preparation side of things so they looked great before racing began ( i will exclude myself as i returned an old car). Some of last seasons Novices have moved up to this group full time now including 424 Danny Mills and 269 Tom Morris, also new to the group to run along side 513 Andy Maidens is young driver 7 Mick Southall both with top paint jobs, a real effort also from 422 John Brookes with his fantastic paint job, all three thanks to Ant Long Signs. A couple of drivers where absent from the group both with lorry troubles but shining once again on the day was the man you can just not help but love when he climbs into a car be it a Banger or Mini Banger - 14 Richard Dixon. Last seasons 1800cc Banger champ 04 Mick Croft also had an ultra smart car joining the group but will he stay in this class for the year or move into the larger cars which he has been seen racing at other venues? could be a fun filled year in the Mini Bangers with a 10 v 10 penciled in for 17th May which should be a heavy crashing session for the little cars.
The Big Bangers also had an outing on the first day with a small show on the field but the ones that raced put on a great days racing, a big thanks to Team Hounddog who came all the way from Ireland to have a go, now that's dedication for you and also for the fact bigger teams are checking the track out for later in the year for bigger Banger meetings like the team meeting, Tottys memorial or the "BIG ONE". There were some great hits out there but it was all smiles from these lads and a real effort was made by 621 Convict with his easter bunny car, a promising start for the bigger cars but hold onto your hats next meeting as the Big Vans return and once again Brampton should hear the roar of a V8 and a V6 flat out round the track. A mention to 157 Mad AL who took a storming hit in the DD leaving him with broken ribs. "get well soon" AL and 621 taking a nice roll after being hit.
Well done to all drivers and officials behind the scenes and the burger van staff who worked miracles keeping the large crowd fed and watered, for a Bank Holiday we were blessed with some great sunshine and there were a few red faces by the end of the day but from the sun and nothing else. A real bonus now is it's only six days till the racing returns with the Big Vans, Specials, Juniors and the 1500cc nudge and spin.
Looks like a great season lay ahead and more in depth racing reports will follow as the season unfolds once the points charts settle down a bit, well done to all the winners on the first day especially 55 Nick Gelder who took all four wins in the Specials.
Thanks again and see you all on Sunday.
Out Takes:
Did anyone else spot John's mistake on the mike or was it just me? saying " what fantastic racing on a hot Sunday afternoon " John it was Monday mate.
424 Danny Mills " i've done more spins than i have laps "
17 Ian Haznip " fill in your own excuse here " he's got a book on them ( hee hee )
A new photo caption competition will be added to the next report but you need to log onto the Brampton Forum to enter it, details will follow soon.
Report by Andy ( Streaky ) Boyce
TOP OF PAGE
MEETING HELD
19th April 2009
Big Van Meeting
The second meeting of the season saw Brampton Raceway blessed with beautiful sunshine again so not only was it nice and warm it also made for some very fast and close racing, there were a few people shining and having a great day with racing from the Specials, Juniors, Nudge & Spin, Mod-Stox and the long awaited return of the Big Vans.
Specials
A good field of Specials took to the raceway for some very fast and close racing with driver 55 Nick Gelder having to drive very hard to get through the pack to keep up his title chase, all his efforts where no match for some of the other top runners though with 61 Wayne Twigg driving like a man on a mission to take some great wins, just holding of 11 Craig McCrae who was all over the back of waynes car like a rash for most of the races.
There also seems to be some life left in the silver fox 144 Dave Barra getting a second in one of the heats, the final was the fastest race for the group with 61 wayne twigg and 62 jason twigg bumper to bumper for most of the race with the remaining pack struggling to keep pace with them, then a cruel twist of fate when 61 suddenly slowed with only a couple of laps to go handing 62 Jason Twigg the final win, 11 Craig McCrae in second and 55 Nick Gelder doing very well to get up to third after not having an easy passage through the traffic. Still a few meetings to go to see the quick drivers moving further back on the grid as roof grades change which should keep this group wide open for some time yet.
A few drivers are still having teething troubles with their new cars though and reigning champion 44 Dean Gelder was absent this week but sure he will return next meeting to add to the mix.
Juniors
A smaller field of cars today for the Juniors but still some fantastic racing from the youngsters. There was an ultra smart car from 455 Mitchell Finney with attention to detail that would grace most car shows, even the engine being detailed a huge credit to the group and the effort put it by his dad building the car (455 senior Rikki Finney ).
It seems the preparation levels in the Junior class is setting the standard this year and the racing quality is just the same, 217 Ashley Brewster putting in some determined drives from the front taking some good wins and 2008 champ 99 Tom Jordan showing again his great skills having to fight through the field to get into the top three, this was a great effort considering the ground he had to make up on the front runners.
Some of the kids often get forgotten in this group because they don't win each week but they do there best, a mention to the only girl mixing it with the boys in this group is 269 Lucy Morris, still honing her race craft Lucy is getting quicker each meeting and i think she could throw a spanner in the works taking good points steadily as she goes, could poss ably see her in the top half of the points table. 460 Luke Tounge is campaigning his Mini again and as his confidence grows will get faster.
Star driver of the day was 455 Mitchell Finney who aged only 10 got used to his new car over the course of the day getting quicker and quicker then in the final closing a gap that 217 had pulled out, with the crowd willing young Mitchell on and in the closest of all finishes Ashley went wide on the last turn, Mitchell keeping a cool head to take the inside line and win the final by a bonnet's length to a great cheer, 217 Ashley Brewster in Second and 99 Tom Jordan in third. If racing stays at this level from the Juniors then some great races are in the pipeline.
1500 Nudge and Spin
Not a great turn out from the group with only 8 cars but still they managed to have some thrills and spills, the track seemed to catch a few of the drivers out as in race two the track it was watered to control dust levels but caught the whole field out who struggled to get round the corners, they became more like cars on ice. There was one driver who drove a controlled race and made it look easy, 269 Tom Morris in an ex Junior 1.1 Fiesta lapped all others with ease taking a good win, he certainly gets my vote as driver of the day. 45 Phil Clair leads the points at this stage but a few little battles are emerging between team green and black and trucks 45, the final saw driver 202 Martin "pothead" Pannent faced with a head on with no time to react after it was spun just in front of him, the heavy impact appeared to have knocked the driver out has he rolled into the tyres in some difficulty but the ST. Johns ambulance team attended to the driver who walked to the ambulance to be checked over, all the best to pothead if your sore and hope to see you out racing again soon.
Big Vans
The Big Vans returned to the track for the first time this season and we were treated to some heavy crashing once again, Best painted Van was voted as 621 Scott " convict " Goodyear who painted and dressed his van as a bumble bee complete with wings and stinger (that's a tail to you and me as no doubt convict is used to avoiding stingers used by her majesty's finest in blue lol). Trucks 45 team also presented two well turned out vans one being a LDV with a 3.5litre v8 that sounded very impressive compared to the diesel transits, also racing where 918 Ray Calledine, 91 Steve "Bullet" Campbell and a very brave 661 Gareth Holden choosing to race a Nissan Prairie against the large vans, he drove very well playing cat and mouse to pick of the larger vans and win the races.
(sorry i do not know all van drivers names).
The hits started from the off in the races with some huge spins and T-bones coming from all angles, 918 was very lucky as he took a heavy drivers door hit form the v8 LDV and the punishment the vans took left only a few running by the end of the race The cheers and screams from the crowd only made them hit harder throughout the day it seems, 91 gave as good as he got every race and we were always left wondering if 661 was going to get caught or squashed every race. The heavy damage in heat one meant the second heat was by passed but heat three was just as mad as race one with some well bent vans racing round in a quieter heat.
The final turned straight into a Demolition Derby with vans going in all directions, 621 Convict set of in search of a head on like the LDV who had a solid head on which end its day, the others exchanged hits while 661 went round at speed avoiding the others to take the final win.
91 Bullet got stuck on a tyre and sat waving at the other drivers trying to get them to hit him and get him off, 661 took to the infield to try and get Bullet off the tyre which left him wide open to a huge T-bone from 918 who then got Bullet of the tyre himself, 661 then came across Convict at speed in a huge head on which stopped the 661 car, 91 and 918 then fought it out exchanging head on's leaving 918 snapped and 91 Bullet taking the DD win. A fantastic effort once again from the vans with some real heavy action all day from them, they will be on again later in the season which should once again give us some more motoring mayhem.
Finally
A parents race was added to today's fixtures with an outing from Mick Finn using 217's car, the race was very fast and although everyone tried they could not catch 460 Luke Tongue's Mini, in the capable hands of his dad he showed just how to get the little car round at speed. Mick Finn managed to get up to second with the 99 car taking third. The race was just for fun but showed that in the hands of an experienced driver a Mini can still show the other more modern cars a clean pair of heels.
Out Take
Simon (marshall) "my vans for sale for £400 but i won't take a penny less than £450 !!! (er mm did you mean £350)
Report by Andy ( Streaky ) Boyce
TOP OF PAGE
MEETING HELD
26th April 2009
Domestic Meeting
Brampton opened its gate for its next meeting on the 26th April, a quieter day was expected in the run up to some large meetings in the next month at Brampton and other tracks elsewhere. Behind the scenes work again saw the track in great condition as where the grounds, big thanks to Jill for all her efforts cleaning up the rubbish which had to be no mean task and Martin for working his magic with the grader so the track was in top condition for the racing.
Some of the Big Banger lads from Brampton had been in action on the 25th April in the Scottish world cup (stinkbridge drivers) 455 Rikki Finney taking a heat win at a very difficult track to finish a race let alone win, well done Stinkbridge for yet again putting in the miles, they will be racing in two weeks time at the annual Battle of Britain meeting at Sheffield which is worth a visit on the 10th May as Brampton will be shut for that meeting.
Over 50 Unlimited Bangers are expected for the north's hardest hitting meeting on an unforgiving track.
Brampton today had the domestic classes of Specials, Juniors, 1500 Nudge and Spin and Mini Bangers, numbers not been huge in any group but we still saw some very good racing, this report may be lacking in great detail but events of the day and racing myself meant i didn't see all the action etc.
Specials
A tricky start for the Specials with race 1 after a red flag saw the cars continue to race so no result was called and heat 1 was re-run after the Juniors. The re-run had to be red flagged due to dust so finally after a watering the race was on and as always the racing was fast and competitive even on a sticky track.
A visiting Trent driver in a smart Tigra and a brand new Ford Ka for 147 saw the Fiesta mould broken in the group, 55 Nick Gelder still doing his best to climb into the top positions to keep him ahead in the points race, defending champ 44 Dean Gelder was also racing but seemed to have a quiet day but he did have a good duel with the Ka in some races (ford Ka driven by Mick Finn ) Mick found he can still hit the tyres in a car as did 11 Craig McCrae making a mistake for a driver who normally drives such a controlled race.
61 and 62 Wayne and Jason Twigg still showing their experience on the Brampton oval to fight for top finish's as the group is now spreading out a little as the quick drivers move further down the grid. i apologises for lack of detail or results as they are not known at the time of writing.
So can 55 make it to the front now he has the whole group to pass being the only blue top leading the points with 11 close on his heels, but don't discount 61 and 62 who's cars seem very strong this year.
Juniors
A quieter day for the Juniors with 117 and 99 again not racing which helped 217 Ashley Brewster take some good wins in his 106. Three new cars today in the group with 2 Nissan Micra's for new drivers 384 Tom Foster and 382 Jacob Foster which should give the Fiesta's and 106's some trouble when they get used to the track, both cars being very smartly turned out. First time out also for 12 Jamie Debbro in a nice looking car so when all the Juniors are in attendance there is 17 drivers now which is a fantastic field for the group and should see some very close racing and no doubt a few twists, turns and spills, 455 Mitchell Finney been the solo pink Junior car today.
A damp track caused a few problems in one of the heats catching out 269 Lucy Morris with a spin and 217 also spinning twice on the slippery track, showing great skill in the wet where the two Mini pilots in the form of 177 Thomas Dane and 460 Luke Tongue who drove very well to demote 455 to third and take 1st and 2nd accordingly. So good to see the classic Mini's showing the modern cars the way home and also that the young drivers are gaining more confidence as they settle into the new season, a full grid in this class should be edge of the seat stuff and for me still the group to watch this year.
Mini Bangers
Not a huge field of Mini Bangers this week where Micra's remain the car of choice, returning again this year is 70 Melanie Randell in a very smart Micra, other new drivers also joining in the group were 009 Andrew Barker and 721 Greeny (sorry not know real name yet) the new drivers had a warm welcome with 721 Greeny getting hit by everyone i think and 009 was spun into the infield and with his car hitting the tyres it rolled. The race was stopped to extract the driver. (later on i heard he may have suffered a broken hand from the crash and want to wish Andrew a speedy recovery if its correct) the restart saw plenty of action with the little cars all picking on one another leaving just three to finish. 744 taking out 424 Danny Mills on the last lap to take the win, 424 in second and 70 Mel taking third.
Heat two again full of thrills and spills with 009 (different driver) getting plenty of attention from 424 and 269 Tom Morris, 721 taking some flying lessons with young gun 424 trying to park in the back of it at speed, fantastic action shot of this caught by visiting photo snapper Andy (MUNKISNAPPS) which can be seen on the Brampton Forum. Quite heavy damage for most cars in the race with only a couple of finishers once again, who exactly i'm not sure.
We also a parade for Ant Long signs (cheers Ant car looked mint lol).
1500 Nudge and Spin
Only a small field for the Nudge and Spin cars but mixing things up was new driver 205 Pat Mylett in a 1970's Triumph Toledo rear wheel drive car which he drove very well considering he has never raced let alone a rear wheel drive on a tricky track like Brampton. 405 Adam Edwards also coming out to play with 25 Gemma " Topbird" Jones and newbie (who just turned 16 on the 24th April) driver 93 Lewis Austin son of Mad Al. There was a Fiesta mixing it with the larger cars (think driver was 50 M Hind) most of the cars had trouble in heat one with 405, 50 and 25 all running sick but managing to finish. Sadly heat two i missed.
Race three was stopped due to a massive crash (no comment made on the crash as i did not see it and don't want to get the information incorrect on it) the result was all the emergency services were called upon to remove the injured driver 93 Lewis Austin, this took some time as they have to stick to strict guidelines when removing someone from a car with possible neck / back injuries. This they did in a professional manner keeping the young drivers comfort and safety at the top of there minds at all times, the Air Ambulance as well as road Ambulances attended and the driver was taken to hospital by road (yes everyone mad AL won't get in a chopper should we rename him MR T?).
I'm so glad to report after fears at the track that Lewis suffered bruising and a dislocated neck plus a broken thumb and was allowed home Sunday evening, he also wants to race again soon which is great news so get well soon Lewis from myself and all at Brampton Raceway.
The race meeting was declared finished for the day due to the incident.
I would like to thank all the emergency services for there efforts and speed in helping with this incident, some of the ones helping where volunteers and deserve every bit of help they can get especially the Air Ambulance, I would like to ask that during racing on 3rd May a bucket be sent round for donations to be placed into it with all the proceeds been sent to the Yorkshire Air Ambulance as way of a thank you, its so easy to forget what a great job these people do in our hour of need.
The next meeting see's the veterans outing with up to 40 cars expected and it will be fantastic to see some of Bramptons longest serving drivers (now retired) of all ages returning to track again, miss it at your peril, proper old school drivers when door bars were on a cell and H frames where still rugby posts and car building you did when you got to track half the time. Here's to a fantastic meting and smiles all round.
Report by Andy ( Streaky ) Boyce
TOP OF PAGE
MEETING HELD
3rd May 2009
Alan Curtis Memorial
A very special day was in store at Brampton on the 3rd May, a special one off meeting for Alan Curtis, being special as so many retired drivers once again would turn out on the track in respect for the great man who loved his racing. The day crept up quietly but i'm sure will live long in the memory of those that where there to witness it, the planning, preparation and effort by all the veterans was second to none who made the day so special, in some cases three generations of family would race on the day.
I apologise for not knowing many of the veterans names but a huge thanks to one and all for your efforts, 40+ cars turned out for this event alone with Ged been one of the main organisers and special trophy's for the day, smiling all the way and no doubt still smiling from it now.
Specials
The first race was for a huge trophy donated by the veterans in Alan Curtis's memory, a good field of cars contested this race with some very close, fast racing from all, car 79 Steve Finnan driving strongly till his engine went sick. Most people would have had the flying 55 car Nick Gelder down to win this one but the run away leader driving a faultless race was car 28 Richard Evans taking a very well deserved win after all his time in trying, well done Richard on your first win (i don't have race results to hand so the other placing's i don't have).
The rest of the day continued to throw up some surprises with different winners, heat two saw new driver to Brampton car 20 Rick Dawson winning with a good gap to second (car 20 was 45 Martin Gelders 2008 car) driver 62 Jason Twigg at high speed showed how to do stunt moves in a car making contact with another car and the tyres which left his car teetering on the edge of rolling on the spot and yet somehow coming back down on its wheels after what seemed an age, driver 11 Craig McCrae having a bit a struggle today trying to keep pace as this group seems to be getting ever quicker.
Specials champ 44 Dean Gelder coming through the field in most races but with a lot of ground to make up the front men just to far out of reach for the champ to take any wins, 55 however again seemed to have the best set up car and later in the day saw him winning the final with 44 in second. A long way to go for this group yet and if the Twigg brothers keep there very fast pace each meeting and add to the mix the other quick cars 11, 20, 28 & 79 then it could be very hard to see who will take it this year.
The Ford Ka once again driven by Mick Finn was struck with gremlins but i'm sure once this new car irons out the problems it will also be up there.
Juniors
A smaller field of Juniors today but once again some mishaps taking some victims just to remind the younger drivers the track bites back when your concentration slips or get to brave, always max attack from the youngsters though. Defending champ 99 Tom Jordon was back on the scene returning from his holiday and straight from the off the young ones where flat out. Very good to see car 14 Josh Thompson at speed again not being put off at all by his roll last meeting that saw his car showing signs of repairs to his once immaculate paint job, car 177 Thomas Dane also hitting the tyres hard in the second race making his small mini very short indeed on the drivers side, good work in the pits saw it out to race again later. Returning driver 33 in a new AX showed again his turn of speed around the track fighting very close with 99 and found there was no where to go coming out of turn 3 resulting in a heavy crash for 99 bringing out the reds, driver was fine which was more than could be said for his car and major repairs are needed as it even ripped the gearbox on the car.
217 Ashley Brewster in his very smart 106 fought hard all day with 455 Mitchell Finney as their cars seemed so matched for speed with 217 getting the edge on the day, 460 Luke Tounge was getting faster also and braver, then in a racing incident we saw him hit the tyres on the straight, once again driver fine which is testament to build quality of the Junior cars (just look how small some of these drivers are). 58 David Saddler (hope got right car) finishing all races all be it a lap down, he enjoys his racing and is gaining more car control each outing, top marks for effort and determination.
Newest driver to the group 12 Jamie Desbro again had teething troubles with his car and i'm sure he will get faster as his track craft grows with experience (sorry i do not know the race results again) we are all set for a real tight fight for the title in this group when the points start on the 17th May and 99 Tom Jordan will have to use every bit of experience he has to keep his gold roof. 117 will also be back off holiday for the start of the points meetings for the young drivers, well done all on the day
Veterans
Well where to begin? i arrived at the track at 9.45am and 7 cars where ready to be checked over, normally we have to wait till 11am for any one to arrive for this, as written above it was to be a real special day in memory of Alan Curtis and it definitely didn't disappoint. 42 plus cars (wish i had everyone's name, can anyone help?) all painted very well and ages ranged from 73 years old to third generation of 16 using the cars. Best paint job went to Dairy lee (Alan's son) well done lee great effort. Ged and the lads as they are known to me deserve every bit of praise they get as seeing so many old faces at brampton and a huge field of cars was a sight to behold. Car of the meeting for me was the Austin Maestro closely followed by the returning Triumph Toledo, so many smart cars of all makes, Sunnys, Cavaliers, Honda's, Renault's, an Astra for Ged who used it very well, Toyota's, Metro's, Nova's, a Rover 216 and many more i've missed.
The Memorial race for the veterans saw a huge field of cars and was run as a non contact race for the first one, as you know put 40+ cars onto a small mud oval and remove the Banger drivers brain and anything can happen, the odd bit of contact saw cars go all over the place but considering most of these guys had not been in a race car for years they hadn't lost it and the race was very fast.
Dairy lee pulled out a good lead until the race was stopped due to a roll over, upon the restart 45 Martin Gelder (blue) gave his car to Alans other son Ben as his car would not run for the race, an utterly fitting act for the day and the spirit and once again the respect and friendship these veterans have for each other showed, the race restarted with a depleted field but there were still loads of cars out to make it a good race. (now who won it can you help?)
The rest of the races where nudge and spin or contact as they saw fit, to much action in all area's to say who did what with hits from all angles and all ages. Rent a Dent's Cavalier getting lost and going the opposite way at one point resulting in a minor head on which put the car the right way round to carry on again. An incident in heat two saw goffy's 99 car (driven by Phil Lambley at time) being followed in by a Trucks 45 car and the offending driver was loaded up for the illegal hit, the trucks 45 car also got a driver door hit from his stable mate not long after.
All races where crazy with a roll from Ozzy who, once righted to his wheels just carried on as if nothing had happened to Ged (car 303 i think) going flat out in reverse faster than some where going forwards and doing a good J turn to again race facing the correct way. The final was won by 45 Blue in a little Fiesta which was a fitting end after his gesture earlier in the day.
The Day ended with a Demolition Derby for those who wanted it and this again was fantastic, that man Ged starting on the opposite to get his wish for the day of a head on and he did setting of to meet the pack head on. Some hard hits going in till it came down to just two cars, and in proper old school style one driver turning round to use his boot, car number 10 i think it was taking the DD (did no one tell him cars are front wheel drive these days and take head on's?) still totally amusing to see with his final hit to win the DD being against the tyres as he totally missed his target to great cheers from the crowd, drawing to a close i have to say it was a fantastic day never to be repeated and never to be forgotten by all that where there.
If you missed it get the DVD from Impact video's as it be worth watching again and again and also loads of photo's by Jayne's photo's and Munkisnapps are online for you to view.
Ged Smith you are a legend in your own life time for sorting this day out and myself and i'm sure plenty of others take there hat of to you for the amazing day that it fetched. Flat caps where order of the day for Alan and i bet he is smiling knowing in his memory that once again Brampton was buzzing with the stars from the 70's onwards. Just wish i had a list of names to name all the veteran drivers who made the day what it was.
No picture comp this week just as a tribute i have added Munkisnapps pics of the veteran drivers, thank you one and all for the man himself.
MR ALAN CURTIS gone but never forgotten r.i.p
Report by Andy ( Streaky ) Boyce
TOP OF PAGE
MEETING HELD
17th May 2009
Mini Banger Day
After such a good start to the season the weather had to turn and it did and it chose the week leading up to the 17th of May to do just that, touch and go if racing would be on after days of prolonged rain but thankfully it eased off and meant the meeting could go ahead albeit it with very muddy pits and race track. Always a good test of drivers skill as the wet weather is a great leveler meaning horsepower does not always mean you win. A big thank you to all who attended officials and spectators alike coping with heavy showers, sun and MUD!!.
Specials
A tough day for the Specials today as the heavy track conditions would favour the brave, the racing though was as fast as always and a whole group of cars now appear to be closely matched. 44 Dean Gelder is slowly creeping up the points with steady scoring even though he's not winning the races at present, is he holding back you wonder till the roof grades change? Brother 55 Dean Gelder still leading the way this year again finishing strongly in a car that goes very well and can pull through the field with some ease.
Shining high above the rest today was long serving driver at Brampton Raceway 61 Wayne Twigg who give a master class in how to drive round brampton when its wet and soggy, he had the perfect day taking all four wins which was not as easy as it sounds, 45 Martin 'BLUE' Gelder was out in yet another car pushing Wayne all the way in most races but wayne refused to give in and taking a wider outside line just had the edge on the day, the chasing pack slowing each other up to leave 61 and 45 well in front by the end of each race.
With such close, fast racing it was a case of when not if a tangle would occur and it started with 28 Richard Evans coming into contact with 62 Jason Twigg spinning the latter, in a later heat a group of cars came to grief as a new driver (sorry do not know his number or name) was left stranded after a spin on the exit of turn four and the fighting pack all going for a gap that was not there saw a clattering of panels by many, mixed up in it was most of the field apart from the leaders but they soon sorted themselves out.
All in all some great racing, a big engine blow up for 79 Steve Finnan ended his day and still the ford Ka is yet to keep pace with the Fiesta's, well done to all who battled with the conditions and very well done again to 61 Wayne Twigg for taking the four wins.
Now it will start to get interesting as we see if the higher graded drivers can battle through the field to keep their lead positions in the points table and take the honours.
Juniors
Today saw the start of the Junior points season as all cars should now be within the rules and specifications.
99 Tom Jordan has a tall order to retain his gold top as there are a lot of quick drivers out there this year who have had a few meetings now to hone their skills around the track, the youngsters doing ever so well on the day to cope with the conditions.
A slight advantage from the off from one of last years top drivers saw 117 Daniel Wragg take four wins from four with a clear track in most races for him to pull out a good lead, following closely behind the very much improved 460 Luke Tongue who's little Mini seems to cope very well in the wet. Star man 99 Tom Jones (that what points chart says lol give us a song mate?) putting in a strong showing to take second in the points at this early stage for the youngsters, it will take a few weeks for this group to settle as it has with the Specials then the racing should be so close once again as the many parents, family and friends scream for there little superstars willing them all to win.
217 Ashley Brewster had some car gremlins today slowing him up at times but still scoring good points from the very smart pug 106, 14 Josh Thompson and 269 Lucy Morris both scoring the same points on the day both doing well. 455 Mitchell Finney also had some car trouble seeing the pink car sidelined later in the day, 177 Thomas Dane also in a mini picked up some points today as what is still very much a learning curve for this young man.
Finally 12 Jamie Desbro found out that if pushed to hard in the wet the tyres do get you as the once very smart Lowfield Road car took some heavy damage from the tyres and a side impact from another car, with no where to go that brought the reds out due to driver safety, Jamie was totally unhurt in the accident just his car that was not so lucky.
Next meeting will see it harder for 117 as he is now a yellow roof so has the pack to pass with super quick 99 close on his heels, who will triumph next meeting?
1500 Banger Rods
Well they came, they raced and now they are gone to be replaced with Banger stox (check rules for the differences and build prep on Brampton Home Page) A few brave souls came to do battle for there last outing, 157 Alan Austin taking the title for the Mini season beating 45 Phil Clair to the top of the points on their last day. 11 Graham Jones and sister 11 Gemma ' Top Bird' Jones returned with there Escorts to try once again both having engine trouble but still finishing with smiles all round at the end of the day.
Returning cars from the Veterans day saw the Honda Civic of 218 Steven Gray flying around the track even though it was wet most of the time, nothing could keep up with the car today and only 04 Mick Croft took a win off him as the 218 car played rear gunner for the up and coming Stinkbridge star when mick turned all in his path out the way with ease, some cars twice on the same lap ( dizzy anyone?)
The little Triumph Toledo returned again to see its last days on track giving much enjoyment to its driver who spent most of the day being spun or spinning himself in the old rear wheel drive car. A Demolition Derby was put on last minute for these cars and only three took to the track, 218 and 79 Chris Slater both setting about the triumph to end its day and then some cat and mouse from 218 and 79 until finally 218 slammed into the front wheel to silence 79's car taking the DD win.
MIni Bangers
Today was meant to be 10 v 10 for the little cars but events changed meaning today was every man for himself in the small cars, maybe the weather played a part in the day but some cars that where expected didn't show but still a good field with some very smart cars indeed. 621 Scott 'Convict' Goodyear (think he has an animal fetish?) dressed his Micra as a mouse complete with eyes, ears, tail, whisker's and nose. Very smart cars also for 70 Melanie Randell and stable mate 170 Ant Long.
The first outing of the year for championship runner up last year 66 Graeme 'rollin lap' Wilkinson who's star's and stripe's Micra complete with lottery numbers of the other drivers took the smart car award and furthest traveled award. 17 Ian 'Bandit' Hasnip had a Starsky and Hutch Micra and there were fresh cars also for Ray Calladine with a bubble Micra , 63 Fallon Walton with a mk1 Micra, 269 Tom Morris, 424 Danny Mills, 513 Andy Maidens 7 Mick Southall and 744 Andy Boyce all returning used cars. Action was to be the order of the day with a few choosing to try and avoid trouble and go for the money as a good prize fund was on offer for the day.
Heat 1 was to be very slippery with little cars going all over the place from the contact between them, 621 getting a good hit on the side from 744 only for 744 to be spun a few laps later allowing 424 Danny MIlls to give the 744 car a good head on, this being the last action the 744 car would see for the day, 66 Graeme Wilkinson took the heat one win.
The cars got stuck in when they could catch one another in heat two and after spinning himself with a half a lap lead car 17 got a solid head on from 621 only for 621 to get 17 in his doors in reverse, 170 Ant Long also dished out some stiff shots on turn four into 63 Fallon Walton, 621 breaking down as did 17 and 66, Crucko in a borrowed car from 70 Mel took the win with 513 in the placing as well as 918 Ray Calledine.
Heat three didn't see to much action as the toll of the day was starting to show on some of the cars and the race results elude me at this point.
The final was to be run separate from the Demolition Derby with half the field sitting in the middle of the track waiting for the Demo Derby, the final was the best Rod fest you will see this year with some drivers choosing to save their cars (another meeting for little cars in 7 days) and some choosing to join in the Demo Derby with straight cars, taking the Mini Banger hot rod final was 17 Ian Hasnip.
Some cars left the circuit after the final and those awaiting the Demo Derby moved in to position sitting all round the track with 621 convict facing the wrong way, the green flag dropped and they all set off with 621 on the opposite and what would happen next was one of the hardest head on's i have seen for a while, two cars moved out of the way seeing the 621 car coming but 424 had no chance and bang they met wheel to wheel head on, only for 424 to be hit in the rear from 269 at the same time.
As the cars settled the reds came out for driver safety, the wrecks were very impressive as 621 and 424 both hobbled away from there cars 424 having what has to be wreck of the year so far this season and the smallest Micra you will see for a while, the 621 car also had the drivers front corner almost completely ripped off the car.
66 also tangled with 269 in the crash leaving them out of action as well, all this action in just 25 seconds.
The restart was to last just as long, 14 Richard Dixon who had a quiet day by his standards and who worked very hard to get his car back out after a big hit earlier in the day along with 17 Bandit were on the front row, 918 Ray Calladine and 63 Fallon Walton behind a little distance and finally the 7 car (driver unknown) on the rear, the flag dropped and in perfect harmony 17 and 14 set off backwards as 918 and 63 set off forwards with them all meeting in the middle, 918 and 7 managed to wriggle out with 07 dying leaving just 918 running to take the win bringing an end to a great days racing from the little cars.
Best entertainer went to 70 and 170 but shining on the day for me was 424 Danny Mills who seemed to be everywhere in the action and took a monster hit and great wreck home. Well done to all who raced and worked wonders to get cars back out in such horrid conditions.
Out Take
Priceless moment of the day for me which still has me laughing now:
Martin, the tractor driver working flat out in difficult conditions to recover broken cars from the track comes into the pits towing the 66 Mini Banger, he drives up the pits taking great care as its slippery and there's people about, stopping at the 66 lorry and pulling to one side to line himself up to reverse the 66 car back beside its owners lorry he then turns round to look where he is reversing and DOH!!!! there is no car there as it came of the tractor near the pit gate. Sorry but you had to see it, i found it very funny at the time.
Next week is the two day Spring Bank Holiday meeting with the return of the Big Vans, the new Banger Stox class, Juniors, Specials and Mini Bangers, the Mod Stox will be joining us on the Monday.
See you all there hopefully if rain doesn't stop play.
Report by Andy ( Streaky ) Boyce
TOP OF PAGE
APOLOGIES BUT THERE WAS NO REPORT SUBMITTED FOR THE
BANK HOLIDAY MEETING ON THE 24TH & 25TH MAY
MEETING HELD
7th June 2009
Specials Formula Day
After a week break due to the two day meeting over Bank Holiday Sunday and Monday Brampton once again opened for racing, the mini heat wave soon seems to have passed and after a good watering from above in the days leading up to the meeting the track was very sticky for the start of today's races, this meeting was a special meeting for the Specials formula with some good prize money on offer for the class on the day. In support as always the Juniors, Banger Stox, Mini Bangers and Dirt Rods.
A late track inspection gave the go ahead for the day leaving a few with short notice that the meeting was on, a huge thanks to the pit stop burger van who turned up to provide refreshments and much needed warm drinks on a day which was up and down weather wise. If you have not tried the food from the van it can only be said its service with a smile and always tasty, filling and good value for money.
Also a big thanks to the gate staff, Martin in the tractor and all other helpers for braving the day which later in the day became a mini monsoon with no shelter on hand for marshals who did well to stay put when getting soaked to the skin, not forgetting Jayne and Munkisnapps taking the pics risking there expensive camera's in horrid conditions.
Thanks again as all above worked long and hard on the day and behind the scenes, without you racing could not take place.
Specials
A good turn out of Specials on a day when the track would be tough on these quick cars and at times full of incident, giving a few cruel twists to a few. A strong field started the day with a new driver 21 (sorry not know name yet) in Rick Dawsons old car doing very well from the off, 79 Steve Finnan going very well until the engine gremlins struck again seeing his day ending early which is such a shame as the car goes very well and early season engine problems been the main reason its not among the top 5 in the points race. 107 Steven St Clair is getting to grips with the track now and his car was leading most races for a good while, he's not quite there yet as the top drivers catch and pass him near the end.
55 Nick Gelder seems to thrive in the sticky conditions and had a good days racing taking the most points on the day and picking up a £50 bonus for it, he can count himself lucky after he hit the tyres in one of the heats and was lucky not to damage his car to badly and not be able to finish the days races. Brother 44 Dean Gelder still has it all to do from the back, where as in 2008 his car had the edge the progress from the other top drivers sees him not taking any victory's but getting into the top three and enjoying his racing, he's getting good points but just not standing out as much as he did last year.
Long serving driver 61 Wayne Twigg was again driving very fast and was not afraid to use the wet outside line somehow finding grip where others couldn't to get through the field with out to much trouble, sadly his day ended early when a huge ploom of smoke came from his car as the head let go side lining Wayne for the day. 62 Jason Twigg drove some great races too passing through the field from the back to score good points, it seems that both the Twigg cars are similar on power and speed and get round the track so well. (maybe there dads many years experience helping with the cars is giving them the edge this year?)
64 J Muffet also in team Twiggy colours had a mixed day getting well amongst the battling cars but not yet showing the pace of the other yellow cars, 20 Rick Dawson was again leading the field when a rear wheel sheared off his car causing him to roll heavily ending his day early bending a lot of suspension beyond repair on the day. The newest car to the group 147 (driver unknown on the day) is now showing more of its strength as development of the ford Ka is on going breaking the Fiesta strong hold, the car is getting a lot quicker and giving all the other cars something to think about now as it's no longer a midfield runner but a top runner even winning the final on the Bank Holiday Monday the meeting before, daring to be different watch out for a new driver at the next meeting in a Mini.
11 Craig McRae again having an up and down day with car handling trouble after a few rubbing incidents with other cars, by the final it seemed to be sorted with Craig on a mission fighting through the field in a hard race to get the lead only for it to be taken from him, the lone new Dirt Rod driver who raced with the Specials on the day forgot for a moment he was in a non contact race and turned into the 11 car wrecking his front tyre which snatched possibly the drive of the day and victory from car 11.
So in many ways coping with the weather a good field of cars and mechanical breakdowns the Specials had a hard day but it led to some very good racing that made up for the quiet groups in other area's, don't know the results from the day so to all the winners well done and look forward to a full grid again next meeting.
Juniors
The Juniors didn't disappoint with a good field of cars and a real taste for the young ones of tackling tricky conditions all day and their final being more like a boat race than a car race. A few mishaps on the day for some with steady driver 269 Lucy Morris getting a rude spin from another car sending her into the tyres at speed which resulted in a bent rear axle giving Lucy an early bath on the day.
A good number of junior cars where missing on the day due to there fathers racing elsewhere at a Big Banger meeting, defending champ 99 Tom Jordan lived up to his nick name of "Smoothie" today with stunning drives from the back to finish all races and score heavily on points with the final being his best drive when standing water on the track saw even Junior cars aqua plane into spins, visibility due to spray had to be very little but still Tom managed to get up to second and push the 117 car very hard indeed.
117 Daniel Wragg who had a birthday in the week (happy B day Daniel) also showed very mature driving skills to get to the front in most races keeping him at the top of the points race so far this year, both Tom and Daniel have a long way to go but at the moment the title fight is between these two drivers. 217 Ashley Brewster is still mixing it with the top two but his light pug 106 is a real hand full in the wet with Ashley doing ever so well to keep it on track when it fights to go straight on in the corners when wet. 58 David Saddler still learning his race craft had some spills today hitting the tyres on a few occasions but quietly he still managed to finish his races, he's not yet matching the speed of the front runners but i'm sure in time he will be a good driver and a star of the future. 460 Luke Tounge still showing how much he has come in a year throwing his little Mini around with ease even when the track was catching so many out, just not quite having the edge to catch Tom or Daniel on the day.
Great driving all round from the young ones and well done all for racing on a day when most would not have tried.
Banger stox
Only five cars today as most Banger drivers were away on duties elsewhere, no action really for a small field just a few hits by CoCo on his team mate in a well used sunny leaving the sunny a well trashed mess by the end of the day, Bullet borrowed the 633 car for one of the heats and battled just to get it round but he did finish.
Notice from track Management:
We would like to remind all drivers entering this class to read the rules as some cars are not allowed in this class, so we don't have arguments or upset the track would ask you not to bring banned cars from this group hoping to race them, the rules are there in the interest of fairness to one and all and a list of the cars not allowed to race will be placed on the web site, if in doubt please call Mick for confirmation if you can race a certain model.
This will eliminate any doubt and saves bringing a car that can't be raced if outlawed from the class, thanks for your cooperation on the matter and we look forward to a good entry of cars at the next meeting.
Mini Bangers
Just four Mini Bangers on the day with no real action to speak about just a few spins. 79 Slac had a good day in the ex 66 car and 422 John Brookes also had fun in his well used bubble, 269 Tom Morris again being different bringing out a Toyota Starlet which did very well to even run with its rotor arm super glued together.
A new driver also today in a Nova (No 151) doing very well in winning his first ever race but having a real baptism of fire getting his car to go round on the really wet track.
All in all a very mixed day both for racing and weather but very enjoyable never the less.
We have
another break in racing now as we are closed on Sunday 14th June, the next meeting is the 21st June when the Big Bangers are on the agenda again and all normal groups, the Mod Stox are also with us again which means we have a very busy day in store.
Important Notice
Please note that the Big Kev Memorial meeting has moved to the 28th June as this date clashes less with other race meetings and gives more chance of a large field of cars, this is one of the best meetings for Bangers at Brampton this year where the hard hitting drivers will once again grace the track. Expected participants are Team Stinkbridge, Common Crushers, The Outsiders, Turf Men for local support and who knows maybe a few visitors from teams like Asbo, Predators, Levellers and Bulleys to name just a few, maybe even the Gladiators will come and play ?
This is without doubt a meeting not to be missed so if you have never been to Brampton before then come along and whet your appetite on the 21st and then return on the 28th for the really heavy action, everyone is welcome just drag the sunshine along with you.
Report by Andy ( Streaky ) Boyce
TOP OF PAGE
MEETING HELD
28th June 2009
2L Team Meeting / Big Kev Memorial
Firstly apologies now if any info in this report is wrong but its hard to remember who hit who and also hard to see from one bend to the other when marshalling but here goes:
2L Big Bangers / Teams
This meeting is held for a great man that will always be remembered by many as BIG KEV. and has run every year in his honour and memory after he sadly passed away in 2005, boy time passes so fast. The team meeting was Big Kev's. brain child and his dream as most of you know now and as always it was not to disappoint, the pits saw a good spread of cars among different teams although there were no visiting teams in attendance, but would this stop it been an action packed day? like hell it would, its quality it seems not quantity that wins every time.
Teams in attendance were Team Stinkbridge, The Outsiders, The Common Crushers, The S25 Crew , and a few single drivers that made up a team of some sort, many of the cars were to be the 2 litre of choice at the moment in many forms of Mondeo with a few choosing Primera's, a lone Bluebird (how different 12 months is as loads of them last year) two Volvo 240's and one mk3 Cavalier.
Many smart cars where on display before the start of the day with nice Primera's for 211 Coco and 621 Convict but these where to be totally out shone today with ultra smart cars from 99 Goffy (240 Volvo), and Toffo 65 (Mondeo). The paint jobs on both these cars was immaculate which was once again a fitting tribute to Big Kev. from his son and brother, Impact video's chose the smart car award with 99 Goffy been the winner and 65 Toffo a very close second.
The day started with a parade lap of all cars in respect for Kev. and i'm sure he was watching, looking down on his beloved track, as the day went on the hits got bigger and the weather got hotter which again was so different from the down pour that greeted the teams for their first race last year.
Heat 1
Some twenty plus cars took to the track for heat one, the Memorial race, which this year was to be full contact from the off and some chose to race rather than wreck as a fantastic trophy was up for grabs as well as the Memorial shield to hold for a year. From the off the hits started with 621 Convict getting spun and attacked by an Outsider car, Ray Calladine then ran into him into his Volvo Estate to get a hit from 01 Kyle Shires, a few others got tangled up here but most got going again. 412 Little Raver got spun on the next lap by Pothead in the Bluebird, 621 then attacked the 01 car that was in the back of the volvo but emerged facing oncoming traffic just in time for a good head on from 60 Shakey Junior (Common Crusher) this putting the 621 car against the tyres where it was double slammed by 73 Crucko and 97 Glen at the same time which messed the 621 car up nicely. Unseen by me on another corner was a monster hit from 99 Goffy in to the 211 Coco Primera putting the wheels to the cage and as 99 Goffy tried to break free from the crash it moved 211 into the on coming traffic to take a huge head on from a person unseen by myself, the reds coming out to get a very shaken Coco from his car, on the restart some minor action as a good few were in with a chance of the win but just keeping ahead of the rest were the Stinkbridge cars of 451 Willy Blackwell and 450 Glynn Platts with 450 closing in on the 451 car and just been beaten over the line making 451 Willy Blackwell the victor, so once again the Memorial race was taken by a Team Stinkbridge driver. and good points were scored for the Pinks Team A.
Heat 2
Smaller field for heat two after the heavy damage to some cars in the first race but this would not stop it from being lively. From the off 211 in a fresh Primera (though why 211 had two cars for the day is beyond me but there you go) got tangled with 65 Toffo, 211 sat across the track wedged against the tyres with the 65 car behind it, the 65 car failing to be able to move. Unluckily for 211 after his monster hits in heat one he now looked out the window to see the first car round the bend had the roof fin number 451 and doing what 451 does best he lined 211 up for an inch perfect hit in the back door which was very hard and fast spinning the 211 car around like a matchbox, the 65 car pushed some twenty yards also left him open to a stiff rear shot from 04 Mick Croft Junior.
Pothead picked up Little Raver once again putting him away causing his car to spin violently on impact, with the 412 driver in some distress from the hit the reds came out, gladly 412 was just winded and attention turned to the 211 driver who was in a lot of pain when he got out of his second wreck in as many races. St Johns checked him out and i believe apart from being dizzy and sore Coco was unhurt, i would also like to thank 65 Toffo who deserves a big hand after taking a big hit with half his harness removed but saw his only concern was both 412 and 211 and not even worrying about himself. well done 65 and also 451 Willy Blackwell who came to check on the driver and in true spirit of the sport everyone was happy.
The restart saw some action on the pit stop end with one of the Outsiders getting a stiff shot from a pink car then another Outsider burying himself in the back of that, who won the race i'm not sure so i apologies to the winner. It's very hard to recall and work out who was in what car as some roof fins where not easy to read and most cars where lacking in sign writing which meant they didn't stand out so much.
Heat 3
Well how do you top heat two? again lower numbers here and i had my doubts that there would be much action, so glad i'm always wrong. It was to be a little roddy to start with but as they settled 451 led the way and all seemed calm with the 60 car making good ground through the field, 98 Matt then took a late lunge on 450 to spin him and leave him open to a huge shot from 04 Micky Croft this resulting in the scariest moment i have witnessed on track. On impact Matt totally disappeared from view and instantly the reds where waved with fears for the driver as a freak thing had occurred, the impact had somehow dislodged the 98 cars left shoulder harness strap from the harness eye resulting in Matt ending up in a strange angle with his bum still on the seat but his upper body in the passenger foot well, thankfully he was unhurt and just a little dazed from it.
The restart saw the Common Crushers young guns take up the running with 70 Ant Long flying and opening up a great lead on the pack and 60 Shakey Junior in a strong second place, then finding the 97 car being spun 70 decided to throw away his lead and give it a monster shot to blow up the 97 car totally which in turn left the 70 car dying a few laps later with a blown engine, 60 Shakey Junior took a good victory a long way ahead of the rest.
Final / DD
The final was to be a five lap dash into a Demolition Derby and a few chose to wait just for the DD. The final was very fast on a dry track, 621 Convict had worked wonders to get a very damaged car back out as had Ray Calladine in the Volvo and it got under way with 60 pushing 621 around until it finally spun on the straight. A few laps of racing passed then 742 Taz picked up 43 Bish and gave him a monster follow in folding the 43 Cavalier very impressively with the force of the impact ripping the roof clean off the B pillar, 43 got out ok and was fine. A few started the DD early here as others raced for the final win which was won by 455 Ricky, the DD then started with hits going in all over, the pinks worked well as a team picking off cars with some good shots but also taking some hits from the Outsider cars, emerging from the middle 450 and 451 which were still running strongly saw 450 pick up 60 putting him in hard and lining him up for a solid hit from 451, 451 then went in search of any other cars as 450 had died but 60 was still running and doing his best to get moving as he was pinned in by the 450 car.
451 found 04 on the centre and hit it over the front wheel to end 04's day and then ran at the 60 car again giving him a head on which ended 60's day. 451 Willy Blackwell was declared the winner as the last car moving and he pulled up on the start / finish line with his engine screaming getting out and letting it rev till it blew up to end a very lively day for the Bangers.
Stinkbridge Team A won the team event with 451 Willy taking the Memorial race and DD wins on the day, i would have voted 451 driver of the day but can't as last years driver of the day at this meeting 99 Scott Gough has to get it as in one of the heats he got bored of driving around with no one hitting one another so stopped on the start / finish line and waved in whoever wanted to blitz him, always up for a good crash 742 Taz did the honours and went in flat out as did an Outsider car into 742. The 742 car was firmly wedged in the back of the 99 car so Taz got out and trying to free himself from the 742 car 99 Goffy ended up driving a full lap with 742's car still attached which was just so funny to see, well done Scott you get my driver / entertainer of the day award for another priceless moment to remember.
All in all a fantastic day from Bramptons Banger lads, some monster hits, some good wrecks, fantastic weather and all on film from impact video's which surely will be a good addition to your collection, well done to all the drivers on the day for putting on a class show, who says you need visiting teams to liven it up? a perfect day in a fitting manner to the memory of Big Kev.
As well as the action packed 2ltr Banger racing the support formula's also put on a great show to make the overall day excellent with some of the best racing i have seen this year from these classes.
Specials
The first heat for the Specials was their Memorial race which meant no roof colours apply thus some of the top drivers were close to the front, not that this would mean a boring race by any means. On a sticky track for this group they set off and soon settled into a fast pace with 61 Wayne Twigg taking up the running after passing 11 Craig McRae, he was not to have it his own way for long as the flying 55 Nick Gelder came through the field to challenge the 61 car and this is when some of the best driving in the Specials began as these two battled corner to corner for position. When they came upon slower traffic some of the moves for track position where very daring and at such speed it could have easily gone so wrong, no matter what ploy 55 tried 61 just seemed to have the sharper edge always coming out in front and all the way to the flag where 61 punched the air in delight when he took this race, he deserved it after the battle he had had in this race with 55 who came second, 28 Richard Evans returning to racing once again seems to have found some pace and pushed for third place for so long but car 11 got a good run at him piping him for third at the end. 44 Dean Gelder seemed to lack some pace in this heat as his once so trusty stead just doesn't want to play this year proving getting the gold roof is one thing, keeping it is another.
Heat two was from normal starting positions with the top points scorers having lots of ground to make up giving the lower graded drivers a chance to pull out a lead as the rest battled for places, as the quick cars caught the white grade drivers lap by lap they tussled for positions and with nine cars all fighting for the same piece of track some were slowed as others tried to pass, car 21 Phill Melon doing well to hold the lead with the pack pressing down on him. 28 Richard Evans must have been taking the brave pills again as he pushed flat out not even easing off for the bends to come along side 21 trying for the lead, in an even braver move car 11 saw a chance and gained five places in one corner to almost come out in the lead only for 28 to throw it all in with a do or die move and for once the move stuck and 28 Richard took a well deserved win with 11 in second and 61 in third.
Heat three was a little tamer until some new drivers span on the first bend meaning evasive action was needed by the rest of the field and taking a fast outside line saw 61 Wayne Twigg with no where to go and having to slam on the anchors resulting in a stall and taking some time to restart. By the time he did he was just in front of the leader 55 Dean Gelder driving a very good race to take a comfortable lead and with a little bit of show boating from 61 we saw him waving at 55 to try and catch him (even though a lap down) to which 55 tried for a while then backed off so as not to loose the win, 44 came second and 147 finished third.
I went out for a play in a Junior car in the final so didn't see any action as i was at the back and going no where fast and being lapped by the leaders, i am told 61 won, with 28 in second and 55 taking third. The arrival of a Mini in this group is still to happen but they keep entertaining everyone, 55 who leads in the points at the moment keeps putting in very sensible drives in most races with 61 chasing hard but it's still a long way to go so the fight is not over yet.
Juniors
A smaller field than usual for the Juniors, same format as the Specials with no roof colours for their Memorial race. Top runners 117 Daniel Wragg and 217 Ashley Brewster near the front with defending champ 99 Tom 'Smoothie' Jordan a few rows back, 384 Jacob Foster in a smart 106 close to hand also who is a threat as the young man is a very hard charger and very quick. They set off and all fought tooth and nail for every inch they could with 117 just having the edge on most of the race as his ever calm driving see's him be smooth yet fast round the track, 217 pushed so hard but only managed to scrub speed off in the bends to hinder his progress and 99 Smoothie just went quietly about his business, 384 as mentioned was the one to watch and he held nothing back taking a much deserved win with 99 in second and 117 coming in third, 384 was given a caution for his over eager moves to pass in gaps that are not quite there (well we're all guilty of that in non contact races even if we don't admit it)
The rest of the days races where pretty quiet but 117 and 99 had a cracking day and a big scare at one point as 384 drove up his wing in a racing incident on the bend. 177 Thomas Dane seems to be getting used to racing now and seems to get a good bit of speed out of his Mini which is only caught after a few laps by the top three,177 had his best meeting to date so far, so much so he pulled the drive of his young racing life out the bag to hold off the superstar cars to take a well deserved win in his little Mini in the final. Normally little Luke Tongue is also battling in a Mini but after his crash last meeting he was absent today ( Luke is fine though) and in his over eagerness 177 did a victory lap after the reds and got carried away, 10 laps with no damage and he then managed to slap it into the tyres messing the front up quite bad and receiving some stern words from dad (lesson learned there then Thomas)
117 still leads the points but out of all the gold tops at Brampton 99 Smoothie is the only one pushing the points charts to possibly hold onto his, which is no mean feat, with 384 turning up quite regular now will he trouble the top points places as he is very very quick be it in a Micra or a 106 so who are you cheering for now? Junior drive of the day has to go to 177 for his sterling effort in the final well done Thomas.
58 David Saddler once again was happy to have his own race at his own pace but controlling his car well to score a few more points, after all David its the taking part that counts and having fun which i hope you do every meeting as some times the beginners of today are the stars of tomorrow. Returning after an absence was 12 Jamie Desbro in a fresh car after he wrote his other off a few meetings ago, nice to see Jamie having a little less red mist and a little more race craft meaning he can take home his car in one piece. We saw plenty of the pinks young stars out on Sunday with 742 and 14 who both enjoyed a trouble free day mid pack with 14 Josh taking a good second place in heat three. Remember to watch this group and please cheer on your favourite young driver.
Report by Andy ( Streaky ) Boyce
We would like to thank everyone involved with the organising and running of this very special day
which has been held in the memory of Kevin Big Kev Holland. Many thanks to the promoters and staff for all there hard work, to Munkisnapps and Michelle for the excellent programme and a special thank you to John for the beautiful bouquet of flowers and the equally beautiful engraved vase in which to put them.
We would also like to thank all the drivers who attended and raced this day and to all the spectators who came to watch an excellent days racing albeit touched with sadness and for the due decorum given by all not only during the memorial races but throughout the day as well.
We would like to take the opportunity here to congratulate the winners of the memorial races, a great bit of driving here in all three races saw 3 worthy winners, to the winning Team of the day Team Stinkbridge A, the winner of the Demolition Derby and all other drivers who triumphed on the day in their particular class of racing, well done to all.
We found the day once again a very fitting tribute in memory of a very special man and it is nice to know that his memory still lives on at Brampton Raceway.
Jean & Family
The winners:
Specials Memorial Race |
Wayne Twigg (61) |
Winning Team |
Novices Memorial Race |
Jacob Foster (384) |
Team Stinkbridge A |
2L Bangers Memorial Race |
Willy Blackwell (451) |
Demolition Derby |
Best presented Banger car |
Scott Gough (99) |
Willy Blackwell (451) |
Many thanks to IMPACTVIDEO for donating the Best Presented car prize and filming on the day
