The Isle of Wight Car Club held Round 3 of their MSA Autotest Championship at Knighton Sandpit on Sunday 14th June.
The day dawned hot and sunny and with this round held on a loose surface, the track was watered down beforehand to try and control the dust.
As a consequence competitive times became faster as the day wore on, as the track dried out and drivers adjusted to the changeable conditions.
The course was all new for this regular venue and benefited from the addition of a short but steep incline. This added an extra challenge for 40 competitors as they struggled for grip.
The competition was close with early pacesetters including father and son duo Tim and Russell Thomson in their VW Golf with times around the 57 second mark.
Dan Morgan was quick to redress the balance in his team’s newly acquired car, also a VW Golf, nicking nearly two seconds to record a 55.42.
Richard Weaver, buoyed by his win at Cheverton Chalk Pit, was hot on their heels in his Mk1 Ford Escort breaking new ground with a 54.94, but reliability issues were to hinder any advance on this. As the track became optimal, so the times reduced.
Club regular Neil Glasbey put in some excellent times, but by the close of play no-one was able to catch Matt Trott, Morgan’s team mate, who took a richly deserved maiden win, having had many second places last season. Other notable drives included Anna Considine who was fastest lady, driving Weaver’s rally car with aplomb. Having recently passed his driving test, Karl Aldred took class 1 honours on his first event with barely 500 miles of road driving experience under his belt.
The irrepressible VW Golf will definitely be a key factor in this year’s Unsealed Surface Championship. With many teams adopting this nimble steed as their weapon of choice it is sure to be a close fight as the season wears on.
Many thanks to venue providers and our sponsors.
Next event: 9th August – Round 4 SS at IOW College, more info available on the Website
Final Top five Positions
Matt Trott 53:90
Dan Morgan 53:95
Russell Thompson 54:11
Neil Glasbey 54:60
Richard Weaver 54:94
Overall Championship
Matt Trott 99 points
Toby Allen 95 points
Richard Weaver 93 points
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