Drivers spin off in wet conditions at Dezzi Raceway
Fortunately the weather improved and drivers got down to some decent times in all classes.
What was meant to be the ‘Historic Tour’ meeting at Dezzi Raceway last weekend became the Winter Challenge after an additional four classes were included in the programme.
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Starting on a cold wet note resulted in many drivers losing control and spinning their vehices off the circuit. Not everyone however remained unscathed – the Porsche 911 owned and driven by Peter Jenkins was badly damaged when he left the circuit and crashed down an embankment resulting in extensive damage to the left front wheel and suspension. Fortunately the weather improved and drivers got down to some decent times in all classes.
The first heat of the very popular pre-80s historic saloons event got under way with local KZN driver Rob Prece in the Kingsley Wood VW golf starting from pole position leading the way. Jackie Morrison in his very rapid Ford Escort MK2 gave chase and kept his second position till the end of the race. There were some tight battles throughout the race which had the spectators cheering on their favorites.
For many, the highlight was the second heat of the day, with Frank Davis behind the wheel of his very rapid Mk1 Escort #5. Having missed the first heat due to some gremlins sidelining him, Frank started at rear of the field, behind 30 or more cars on the grid.
But he gave a sterling performance, driving his way into fourth place, only a 1/1000th or so separating him and Greg Steen also driving a Mk1 Escort. The race was once again won by local driver Rob Prece, this time followed by Meredith Willis in his Mk2 Escort.
It was a pity that some of the other top drivers in this series were sidelined with breakdowns, including Collin Ellison, Jannie van Rooyen, Johan Smith and Mike O’Sullivan in the big orange Chev.
As always, the 111 sports and saloons had the fans cheering on their favorites in some very close racing. The Investichem formula Fords provided great entertainment. The Lotus challenge was well represented with local KZN drivers, as was the VW challenge, with a large field of Mk1 Golfs mixing it with numerous Polos.
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