Monday 31 December 2001

Exeter Trial - bike class B - tyres

First MCC event for me so please excuse my naivety! 
 
I should have read the regs before today - I had mistakenly believed that road legal trials tyres like my MT43s were OK but am now not sure because of the distance between the blocks being more than 6mm. What tyres do other folks use on bikes please?
 
Regards and Happy New Year
 
Brian Sussex
Exeter
TTR250
 
 

Welcome to Brindles and Climber

Hi,
 
You are very welcome to the community. Looking forward to meeting you here.
 
 A reminder that this is a "real names " community (see the rules!). Pleae ammend your "nickname" in your user profile so it displays your real name and/or make sure you sign your posts with your real name.
 
Much obliged.
 
Michael - Community Manager

Monday 24 December 2001

Have you signed in?

If, like I was doing, you view the message board without bothering to sign in to the community be aware of the following :-

" ....if you do not sign in to your Hotmail account for 30 days (or within the first 10 days after you set up your account), Hotmail marks your account as "Inactive". Your stored e-mail messages are deleted, and inbound mail messages are returned to the sender. Your Passport still works, and your Hotmail sign-in name is reserved. You will need to reactivate your account by going to : http://www.hotmail.com/ and typing in your sign-in name and password. If your account remains "Inactive" for 90 days, Hotmail permanently deletes it and any stored messages. "  so says Mr Microsoft, however there is no warning and your membership to the community remains in a state of limbo so when you re-join can't use your original 'nickname' or email address.

Looking foward to the Exeter - all I have to do now is put the engine and gearbox back in and get an MOT......

Merry Christmas all! 

Stuart Cairney

Saturday 22 December 2001

Virus Warnin from Mike Furse

Hi Gassers,
 
Mike Furse has sent out an e-mail warning of a virus circulating amongst triallers. I looked it up on the Symantec Site and they say this could be a "hoax virus" (Whatever that means.). Anyway this is the link to what Symantec (Norton) have to say.
 
 
Michael

Friday 21 December 2001

Christmas and New Year

Just a little note to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy and safe New Year.

Hopefully met of you on the Exeter.

Sorry to hear of your postal mix up Michael. Hope to see you anyway.

Mark

Typo in Exeter Route Card

Being extremely organised with Christmas things this year gave me the opportunity to go through the Exeter Route Card the other night.  Either I had got completely befuddled (it was quite late) adding 186 minutes (plus 15) to all the standard times or there is a minor typo towards the end of the route card.  It appears that we need to travel back through time after the final section - whilst we all know that Dudley could do this it might prove difficult for us mere mortals!
Ian Davis  

Tuesday 18 December 2001

New Members

A reminder to our new members that this is a "real names " community (see the rules!). Pleae ammend your "nickname" in your user profile so it displays your real name and/or make sure you sign your posts with your real name.
 
Much obliged.
 
Michael - Comminity Manager

Sunday 16 December 2001

Asleep At The Wheel

I have been thinking about the Selby Rail Crash, where it is said that Gary Hart went to sleep at the wheel. It looks as if he will be sent to prison. I can't help wondering if we triallers sail close to the wind on this one sometimes. On the Exeter I always struggle to stay awake on the way from breakfast to the first hill and on the long grind down the A30 to Bluehills on The Lands End. Personally I always take the day off before an MCC event and put my head down before setting off for the start. I know some people take wakey, wakey pills. Has anyone tried Red Bull? The endurance element is a key part of MCC trials and without it they would be loose all their  character but we must be careful, especially with the speed of modern traffic.

I used to drive home after the Edinburgh until the day I went to sleep on the Motorway. I remember I was dreaming about somebody knocking on my bedroom door trying to wake me up. I did and it was the sound of my wheels on the Cats Eyes. After that I stay in Buxton overnight!

Michael

Wednesday 28 November 2001

Virus Warning from Michael Leete

 Hello Gassers,
 
To warn you I have recieved viruses in e-mails from Pete (Allen Trial) Hart and John (Falcon Motor Club) Prestage.
 
Follow this link to find out the details of the virus
 
 
The virus is called W32.badtrans Neither Pete or John will know they have the virus, their computer is sending out the mails automatically. So if they have your name in their address book you are vunerable.
 
You can tell the mails have the virus because they contain an attachment with two suffix's eg "XXXXXX.mp3.scr"
 
Also if you look at the return address it is prefaced with an underscore eg   _Peter etc etc
 
I am trying to contact both Pete and John by phone to tell them.
 
Michael
 

Virus Warning in E-Mails from Pete Hart or John Prestage

Hello Gassers,
 
To warn you I have recieved viruses in e-mails from Pete (Allen Trial) Hart and John (Falcon Motor Club) Prestage.
 
Follow this link to find out the details of the virus
 
 
The virus is called W32.badtrans Neither Pete or John will know they have the virus, their computer is sending out the mails automatically. So if they have your name in their address book you are vunerable.
 
You can tell the mails have the virus because they contain an attachment with two suffix's eg "XXXXXX.mp3.scr"
 
Also if you look at the return address it is prefaced with an underscore eg   _Peter etc etc
 
I am trying to contact both Pete and John by phone to tell them.
 
Michael
 
 

Monday 12 November 2001

Tyred out

Anyone who uses either Colway or Motorway remould tyres would be well advised to stock up now (if they can any stock) as their parent company (Environmental Waste Solutions) has gone into receivership and production of tyres at both companies has ceased.
 
This is particularly bad news for "club" rallying as many competitors have been using the economic Colway brand for years.
 
It was well known that the company had been struggling for some time. In particular it was having trouble in being competitive against cheap Eastern European and Asian imports. The UK appears to be a bit of a dumping ground, we're apparently less fussy about the tyres we use than most other countries.

Baja Race Invitation

Launceston & NCMC have a talk by Mike Woolley on the Baja Race in Mexico. Mike has competed in this event on two occasions . It is a non stop event over dirt & mud tracks for approximately 1,150 miles taking roughly 44 hours. All are welcome to come it  is at the Eagle House Hotel, Launceston. On the 22nd of November at 8.00 PM. Entry is free.
 
John Turner.
 

Sunday 11 November 2001

Founders Night

I went to the one in Cambridge organised by John Groves. There were 22 at the table and we duly saluted the club at 9pm. There were some fantastic stories told, photographs to look at and even a 1928 triple.
 
More later.
 
Michael Leete

Saturday 27 October 2001

***OFFER***

Dear members I have Chrome and Black Tax discs (alloy) @ 짙6.99 each + 짙1 p/p.These are 짙14.99 in shops you can pay by credit/debit card or send a cheque...Email me for details Peter@waxacar.co.uk  or look at www.waxacar.co.uk  This offer is only available to members.

Thursday 25 October 2001

Exmoor Clouds Trial

Has anyone got details of the results of the Exmoor? We were about the second or third car to sign off at around 5.30 p.m. so guess it was a late finish for most cars. An enjoyable event with glorious weather and scenery. Its still a bit rough as the bent lower wishbones on my Troll show. But great to be trialing again.
Stuart Harrold

Wednesday 24 October 2001

Can you identify this mystery motor for Bart?

I am frantically trying to get hold of any history or information about a car that I gought this summer, it's a special built on a vitesse chassis and has I believe taken part in some MCC event in the early 90s.
Please take a moment to have a look at the attached page to see if you can shed any light on my little mystery
 http://website.lineone.net/~acorngrowth/

Many thanks
Bart
 
(posted by Michael Leete)

Welcome to new member Jason

Jason,
 
Welcome to our community. Just to mention that this is a real names community. We would be gratefull if you would either sign your posts with your full name or go into your member profile and change your nickname to your full name.
 
Many thanks and again welcome.
 
Michael

Saturday 20 October 2001

Trialling Down Under

Sporting Trials buffs might want to look at www.mudtrials.org and see how its done in Australia...................

Tuesday 16 October 2001

Ebworth

Check out the Photo Album for some great pictures from John Salter.
 
I would be very gratefull if anyone could let me have the results and/or a few words so I can do a report for Classical Gas.
 
If you can you can either post it here or e-mail me on mleete24@hotmail.com
 
Many thanks
 
Michael

Monday 15 October 2001

RWD Escort. Class 3 or 7. Thoughts?

Hi All

After spending a very enjoyable day messing around in a field for the Gill Morrell PCT and talking to a few people. I talked to Mike Hayward about his Escort which currently a Class 7 machine as it has been modified beyond permitted limits. Fair enough it is a FWD Escort with Mk2 running gear but it does have a 5 linked coil sprung rear end. It has always seemed a touch unfair to put this particular in Class 7. As it is on 13 inch wheels could it not be reclassified to Class 3, even on a temporary basis to see how it fares. I know that the modified Pops do very well in the higher classes but they have much larger rear wheels and probably not as useful for Autocross!

I personally have no problem with it in Class 3. Does a RWD Mk3 Escort really have a greater climbing potential than a normal RWD Escort? I realise there is potential for the "One rule for one, one for another" syndrome but on one off cases could a panel reclassify a car on a temporary basis. Lands End 2002? As long a Michael does not strike gold on the Exeter!

Does anybody else have any other thoughts for or against?

Mark

Sunday 14 October 2001

NEC Show

Once again ACTC has a stand at the Classic Car Show at the NEC 10/11th November.
We therefore need volunteers to man the stand - people who are happy to extol the vitues of our sport to the great unwashed  sorry the general public.    If you volunteer to assist on the stand you get a free entry and you get to see all the great videos we have.     Any one who can assist in this, please could they contact Alun Lewis  alun_lewis@hotmail.com
Thanks....

Saturday 13 October 2001

Welcome to new member peeterr

Hi,
 
Welcome to our community.
 
Just a quick reminder that as we can't work out your real name from your nickname or e-mail address we would like you to put your real name on your pots as this is a "real name zone".
 
See the community rules for more details.
 
I see you are interested in the Exter Trial. You have come to the right place to ask queastions but you can also find out more from the MCC site. See "Links".
 
Michael Leete
 
 

Thursday 11 October 2001

Photo 30 Blast from the Past - Note from David Malin

The lad in the car is indeed in his 40's. He is my brother Brian Malin who went on to compete in Classic Trials wih a Mk 5 Buckler. The car is being driven by my father Ken who on occassions can still be spotted on MCC events.
 
Although he still owns the car it has not been used for many years.
 
David Malin
 
(Posted by Michael Leete)

Saturday 6 October 2001

Exeter 2002 - Seat wanted

My regular chauffeur for Exeter has booked himself a skiing holiday for the relevant week end.  Result, no Exeter.
So, if there's anybody out there that needs a fairly experienced passenger (four Exeters from 1997) I'm ready and willing to join you.
Open car/Class 8 preferred.
 
E-mail me at chris_n_p@hotmail.com if you are interested.

Wednesday 3 October 2001

Founders Night in Bristol Area

We intend to arrange something in the Bristol area and would like to establish the level of interest. Possibly using "The Crown" Allen start venue.

If you would be interested please phone Alan Spencer on 01179 712587 or Email me address in members area.

Please pass on to anyone else who might be interested.

 

Pete

Sunday 30 September 2001

News of the week - 28th September

Published by Michael Leete with the kind permission of John Aley

MCC NEWS of the WEEK : 28.9.01

Compiled by

johnaley@portwrinkle.fsnet.co.uk

 

EXETER TRIAL

Entries are still coming in well and we hear the hotel is actually full up. However there are still some dinner tickets and of course this is in an area with lots of hotels nearby.

Bookings are already heavy for the Bay Hotel at Newquay which is the finishing point for next Easter`s LANDS END TRIAL and the Ugalde travel agency seems to have taken over the next door hotel for the benefit of competitors who just want to stay the Saturday night and take part in the club supper and general merriment. The person to speak to is Anne Ugalde on 01395 597620.

FOUNDERS NIGHT.

First an apology to Derek Chatto who is organising the local event in Derbyshire for quoting the wrong telephone number in Triple. His real number is 01773 853635 His event promises to be somewhat novel with a gentle tour in the afternoon to work up a thirst for the evening. Sounds good!

John Turner

who is organising the event for the Devon/Cornwall borderers has booked dinner at 짙7.95 a head at the Wilsey Down Hotel which many of you will know as the breakfast/lunch stop on the Lands End Trial. It`s a jolly place and well MCC orientated.

INVITATIONS

First the good news. We hear that the Camel Vale Club will be running a single venue classic trial in Cardinham Woods sometime in November to which MCC will be invited. No more details at present but we`ll keep you informed.

And now the bad. The Woolbridge Club has had to cancel its Hardy Classic due to the effects of you know what.

Will we never get back to normal………… but let`s end this week on a happy note ………

RESCUED

Just when it appeared that the late Allin Panhale`s well known VW Notchback had gone to that great scrapyard in the sky we hear news that Adrian Marfell has rescued it. We don`t know what he intends for its future but if you are interested he can be found on 01989 770679. It`s always sad when a well respected car disappears so let`s hope we shall see this one in action again soon.

 

Don`t forget to let us have your news and comments at the address shown above …….

And watch the MCC web site to keep up to date with what is happening in your club.

Saturday 29 September 2001

MCC Run on 7th Oct

Posted on behalf of Ken Green
 
HI

Dont forget that the MCC has a run on on the 7th October visiting Bletchley Park.

Hope to see you all there - your last chance to meet MCC friend until the Exeter and get the Mothballs out of your Trials machine

To see what Blechley is all about watch Station X on the TV Saturday night Contact Graham Weeks for an entry - address in Triple

Cheers
Ken Green

Sunday 23 September 2001

MCC News of the Week - 23 September 2001

(Published by Michael Leete with the kind permission of John Aley)

MCC NEWS of the WEEK : 21.9.01

Compiled by

johnaley@portwrinkle.fsnet.co.uk

 

Most members received a bumper mailing at the beginning of the week and responded promptly as MCC members usually do.

Already we have received something like 170 car entries for the Exeter Trial although motorcyclists are, as ever, much slower to dash off to the post office. Come on then, if you want an entry, and who doesn`t after such a barren year, get busy filling in that entry form. There is good news from the landowners around Tillerton who say we will be welcome while repairs are planned for both here and Slippery Sam to ease some of the roughness.

Hotel bookings for the Exeter weekend are well subscribed and lots of you have already booked for Roger`s jamboree at Newquay at Easter next. One suspects that MCC members are more socially minded than we give them credit for.

Graham Weeks reports considerable interest in the Banbury Enigma Run which replaces the Edinburgh trial on 7th October. For many this event may be a poor substitute for the traditional trial it replaces this year but it gives us a chance to visit some interesting spots and meet up with old friends. This kind of touring event really takes us back to the MCC`s roots when the social run in company with like minded intrepid souls was the great event of the month.

As expected, enquiries about the new Class O are keeping our phones red hot. The important thing to remember is that this will constitute a trial within a trial for those who due to age, inexperience, lack of a suitable machine or just out of choice do not want to face the rigours of the real thing but still want to enjoy themselves. Already we have two motorcycle teams, mainly composed of new members, several Morgans, an experienced rider on an unlikely ancient BMW 250 and a vice president in his Ford Model A on the list. In this class there can be no pot hunting as there are no pots to win but everyone should have an entertaining and not too damaging event.

This week`s mailing told members about the Centenary Scrapbook and the MCC Christmas cards. Orders are already coming in thick and fast for both. Books will be despatched in about a week`s time when the first production batch is received from the printer and the cards will be sent out in the middle of next month – in good time for Christmas.

We hope everyone like the "New look" of Triple magazine. Our editor, Charlotte "Brazen Hussy" Blight has worked really hard on this, her first, copy but badly needs your help with contributions and photographs for future issues. If you have had an experience, been somewhere or ridden something different that you think would interest other members, please let us know.

That`s all for this week. Please let us have your comments, club news, opinions and queries by E Mail to the address shown above.

 

Saturday 15 September 2001

The Show to go on in 2002 (posted on behalf of John Aley)

THE SHOW TO GO ON IN 2002 (posted on behalf of John Aley)

At the Executive Committee meeting last week it was firmly agreed that next year`s programme must go ahead in one shape or form no matter what happens!   In 2001 the club took the lead in abandoning motor sport events when the countryside was devastated by the foot and mouth outbreak.  Sadly this is by no means over and it it is quite likely that for some time to come we shall not be able to use some of our usual haunts, particularly those near to farms whose owners are naturally still apprehensive. Their wishes must be respected which may lead to the use of more sections in woodland away from farm stock.

This week`s tragic events in New York and Washington could lead to a Middle
Eastern war or worse with consequent fuel shortages and more restrictions
on our sport.

The committee is resolved however that even if the worst comes to the worst there will be something happening on the appropriate dates.  Ron and Ken are determined to get members to Torquay for the "Exeter" supper in January while Lands End C of C Roger Ugalde is equally determined to get competitors to Newquay at Easter even if it turns into a surfing competition - now that`s an idea!

We also discussed the long term furture of our three major trials and it was agreed that whilst we will have to watch the situation carefully and make amendments where ecessary, the overall format will remain the same so an MCC award will not be devalued.
 
John Aley

Monday 10 September 2001

Dellows

Hi All

Did anybody else notice in the Auctions part of Classic and Sportscar there is a Dellow MkIIIb went for around 」4600. I wonder who bought and if it will be out and about in the trials world?

Mark

Exmoor Clouds Entrys

Does anybody know when they will be sent out?

Mark

Friday 31 August 2001

Where is Mike Pearson

Hi All,

I went into the membership list to find a contact for Mike Pearson but the Email address that is given, no longer works, as the Email was returned.

Does anyone know a current one?

Regards to you all,

Greg  McKenzie

Tuesday 21 August 2001

How to stop all that terrible Hotmail Spam.

I am sure many of you have given up Hotmail because of all that terrible Spam. Well Mr Microsoft has upgraded Hotmail and by tuning a couple of settings you can stop the Spam. Yes really.
 
1. Log on to Hotmail.
 
2. Go to OPTIONS
 
3. Go to MAIL HANDLING then JUNK MAIL FILTER
 
4. Set the Filter to HIGH.
 
5.Go back to OPTIONS
 
6. MAIL HANDLING then JUNK MAIL DELETION
 
7. Set to IMMEDIATE DELETION.
 
8. Then go back to your INBOX and clear out all the old Spam.
 
It works for me.
 
Michael

Tuesday 14 August 2001

1936 Ford Y Special

For sale:

Class 2 1936 Ford model Y, fitted with a vintage style ash and plywood body, (styled on an MG-M) and a tuned 1172cc engine. It's Ultra low cost by pre-war class standards, seemingly unbreakable, reliable, and a winner of bronze and silver medals in MCC events in the last 2 years. It comes with a spare 1172cc engine, one 8hp gearbox, reconditioned and unused, and a spare, serviceable 10hp box. Also a few other spares. Full MOT.

I very reluctantly have to part with it to make way for a new project and am looking for around 짙1900.

C. Springhill

Tel: 01491 872066 or 07876 396484 or e-mail ctj4bspringhill@hotmail.com

Sunday 12 August 2001

Exeter Trial -

I am posting a copy of a Press Release issued today by John Aley - Michael
 
The Motor Cycling Club Ltd
Britain`s oldest sporting club for cars and motorcycles: 1901 - 2001
            
            JOHN ALEY: PRESIDENT
            E Mail: johnaley@portwrinkle.fsnet.co.uk
             
                      
            For immediate release
            EXETER TRIAL: January 2002
                        
            There`s a rumour going round that the next Exeter will be taking the
            form of a touring run!   THIS IS NOT TRUE.
            
            After a season with so little sport everyone is looking forward to
            the January event and  Ron Butcher, the trial secretary, assures us
            that he already has written permission from the appropriate land
            owners to use all the main hills.
            
            The Exeter will also be the first event when the newly introduced
            “Class 0” will be included and after all the work – and headaches –
            this has caused C of C Ken Green, any form of cancellation, or even
            detuning, is the last thing on our minds.
            
            However in the unlikely event of the foot and mouth thing taking a
            turn for the worse or the governing bodies refusing to issue
            permits, the MCC is determined that SOMETHING will happen that
            weekend which will include the regular club supper that  grows in
            popularity each year. 
            
            The Exeter Trial will also be the first event in a year when the MCC
            will belatedly be celebrating its centenary.
                       
Enquires to Ron Butcher, Ken Green or John Aley
 
 

Saturday 11 August 2001

Founders Evening

Hi Everyone,

I am thinking of organising a Founders Evening dinner in the Redbourne area of Hertfordshire. Before I go ahead and make arrangements I need to know if anyone is interested in this idea. Please reply below or E-mail to, mike_hayward34@hotmail.com

If I get a good response I will go ahead and arrange something.

Mike Hayward.

Saturday 4 August 2001

Applications to qoin from Chequed and Philip

Hi - Thanks for your applications to join the community. However, this is a "Real Names" zone. You need to use your real name as your nickname, put it in the notes to the manager or have an e-mail address that contains your real name.
 
If you resubmit your application with one of the above we can welcome you on-board.
 
Michael Leete

Wednesday 1 August 2001

Delay in processing Membership Applications

Sorry Guys and Girls,
 
I just found a small queue of prospective members. I used to get notification by e-mail but that seems not to happen anymore and I only just spotted the requests in the member list!
 
Four OK but two didn't have real names so are still pending.
 
Sorry but we democratically decided on a real names policy about a year ago. We don't mind what you say about people here but you have to look them in the eye afterwards!.
 
Michael, your community mamager

Hello There John Salter

John,
 
I have tried to send you a mail about Charlotte the new MCC editor needing the OK to use a couple of your pics in Triple.
 
I am not sure if I used the right address. Can you drop me a mail please.
 
Michael
 

Thursday 5 July 2001

Proposed MCC Founders night celebration

To most enthusiasts who would attend such a function - cars, talking and drinking would be the main interests. Travelling ones nearest venue may be many miles and overnight accommodation would be sensible. The geographical location of any venue is a factor but perhaps more importantly a function room or rooms, licensed bar, accommodation and reasonable prices/service ought to be considered first. Any location that is capable of offering this for a large group of people would require pre-booking.

The proposed Founders Night is off-season and an abundance of venues that meet the above criteria are seaside hotels. I suggest that a group pre booking could negotiate some very reasonable terms.

The above is just food for thought but it would be a shame for any one to try and wait another 100 years because enthusiasts didn't communicate.

Kind Regards Jon Laver

Saturday 30 June 2001

Technical Problems with Classical Gas

Problems over on The Classical Gas Web Site as the pictutes have gone away! I think the problem is that I have exceeded the allocated Web Space. I will work on this and hopefully normal service will be restored in a few days.
 
Michael

Thursday 28 June 2001

ghts on the "new" Lands End

I was really interested to see the new plans for the Lands End. I am sad to see that "some of the less intresting earlier hills" are to be omitted. personally I like the early hills in the dark. OK, they may not be competitive in an ACTC sense but in my opinion that should not be the idea of the Lands End.
 
The newsletter says that "old favourites" Warleggan and Orange may reappear. I have never seen Orange but the I remember Warleggan as being pretty rough.
 
I do hope the new team will try not to change the character of the Lands End from being a "long distance reliabilirt trial" for both man and machine. there are enough trials with ultra competitive sections and rocks to rip the bottom out of your pride and joy, but there is only one Lands End.
 
Michael Leete
 
PS - One of the joys of the last Exeter for me was more hills in the dark.

Class 0

I believe this is an excellent innovation by the MCC. Hopefully it will give us the chance to see quite a few interesting cars out on events again. Is this the spur for Mike Furse to dust down his Mercury Special?
 
Michael Leete

Wednesday 20 June 2001

NEWQUAY TRIAL

I have heard via a normally reliable source from deepest Camborne that the 'Land's End' may revert to the Newquay finish, presumably the 2000 Penzance finish venue was seen as a failure by the competitors.
Also the reliable source has heard that the Edinburgh can not be run this year- no surprises here as the lead-in period has to be several months. I'm going to be in a pretty unfit state for next year without all these trials!

Monday 18 June 2001

For Sale : MG Midget

For Sale

1976 MG Midget has been trialled regularly for most of it's life. Recent Respray, 12 months MOT, looks tidy.  Suspension raised, Work completed in the last three years includes brand new brakes, new rear wheel bearings, brand new front suspension, brand new rear lever arms, and poly bushes. Hand made maniflow exhaust, rebuilt carbs. Bills for this work and previous available. Includes hood cover and tonneau.

Many Spares included with the car including rebuilt engine and box, carbs, 2 sets of bumpers, 2 door skins, windscreen, suspension pans, springs, dampers, coil over shock set, diff casing, 4 half shafts, diffs, standard exhaust, plus many smaller bits.

Ideal way to start trialling with a ready prepared, ready to go car.

」1350

 

Tuesday 12 June 2001

MCC Summer Run

I did the summer run on Sunday. Not in the Troll but a Morgan. A good day out. Thanks to Ron Butcher and his team for putting on the event. Some really beautifull countryside in the Chilterns and interesting things to see, particularly the old hills. Nice to see some classic trialers without all the clothes and mud.
The road book was first class, the 3 classics could do with road books so clear and accurate.
Thanks Ron
Stuart Harrold

Wednesday 6 June 2001

PCT's

I heard at the weekend that it is very very unlikely that there shall be any BTRDA and thus MSA PCT's before September due to the ongoing Foot and Mouth. What are we going to do all summer, and how are we going to find time once they start up.
 
Duncan

Saturday 2 June 2001

Le Mans Campsite Tickets

My brother-in-law Luke has 3 Le Mans campsite tickets for sale for the Expo Campsite. (A little overordering took place!). He is selling them for 짙40 each. If you are interested then drop him an email on lukelane@lineone.net . He says you should take a look at these two websites. www.club-arnage.com and www.directferries.com .

When do trials start again?

Hello everyone. Thinking to the autumn does anyone knw what trail will take place?
 
Michael

Saturday 26 May 2001

Car Trouble - Can anyboddy help

Big problems with out F reg Nova 1.3 SR which I use for PCT's and Autotests and is the wife's shopping car.
 
It won't start when hot and has been left a while.
 
I have changed the leads which looked a bit dodgy and removed and cleaned out the carb. Once it's going it goes well - full bore and tick-over.
 
Any idea's?
 
Michael

Tuesday 15 May 2001

Donington Park

Hi all

Following on from Simon's outing in his Class 8 buggy. I, and a couple of friends, will be off to the Donington Park Historic GP on the 19th & 20th May. At 」20 for a prebooked weekend ticket and the chance to see the factory Auto Unions proving irrestiable.

More info on www.vscc.co.uk events and Donington Park Weekend.

The Escort managed to sustain some damage during the enforced off season while away getting the MOT and brakes rebuilt. Somebody decided it would be a good idea to run over the car while parked out on the road. The bonnet and boot lid just received foot prints but the roof had been jumped on. Fortunately David Heale has removed the dents in the roof but a couple of very small creases remain. As it happened over the Easter weekend on Saturday night and the police would not come to look at it until Tuesday three days later, reason being that it was a bank holiday... Never mind I got a nice little book about being a "victim" of crime.

Anyway Donington looks good and the weather looks like it might be reasonable. Good job as we shall be under canvas!

Mark

 

Thursday 26 April 2001

A trial section in an American Road Rally?

Hello Trials Enthusiasts.
 
I'm trying to figure out how to include a trials section in a future American-style road rally. Over here in Massachusetts we know how to run navigational rallies using very accurate timing, but don't know anything about setting up a trial section.
 
One problem is that we classify cars based on how much navigational computer power they have, not by the engine size, tire type, or number of driven wheels. 4WD trucks with mud tires compete evenly with MX-5s and Hondas. Is it practical to run such a wide range of cars through the same section? Is there some sort of handicap system that could be used to level out the scores?
 
Thanks.
 
Doug.
 
 

Friday 20 April 2001

Situations Vacant

As many of you know David Alderson, the current chairman of ACTC, has uppped sticks and left for the warmer climate of Turkey.    This has resulted in something of a cabinet reshuffle within ACTC and there has arisen the need / oportunity to fill two "entry level" posts.
 
1) Class 7 Co-ordinator / Tyre Officer
This role is about keep track of the kit car specifications, liasing with people who want to use a new/different kit car in class 7, liasing with the manufacturers to ensure that the vehicle is a legitimate entry (though not very much) and collating the specification for submission to ACTC Technical Panel for approval.   Supplying newcomers (and not so new) with copies of specifications for cars they might want to use.    This person also acts as arbiter of tyres inspecting tyres on request from competitors and passing judgement.  This part of the job is not as onerous as it sounds, 6 new tyres have been insected in the last 12 months, and all were done either by inspection at an event or from photographs and prints in the privacy of home.
 
2) Quality Assurance
This role is the back room to the observers reports that some of you may have been asked to fill in.  It requires the liason with all the organisers to obtain an early copy of each entry list from which 3-4 observers are selected for each event.  They have to be written to in plenty of time for each event so that they can expess opinions of the organisation.  Their reports then have to be collated into a summary for return to those organisers for their use and for submission to the ACTC Council.   This is done for all ACTC events, not just the championship, and is very important for the selection of new events for the championship.  In addition this person controls the scrutineering database.   At each event the scrutineer fills in a report of all the dubious items that have been picked up on any vehicle and these are passed forward to the next event in which that person competes so that, in theory, if someone still hasn't fixed something after being told about it they can justifiably not be allowed to start.   Happily it has never come to this. 
Both these roles involve the attendance at 4 meetings per year, held in  either Tormarton (near the Allen Start), Aztec West (M4/M5 Junction) or Cheltenham.
 
If you think you could put something back into the sport, contact me at bsw_holdings@compuserve.com or on 01584-881348 (daytime); or Giles Greenslade (e-mail address in the member's directory of this site)
I don't suppose we will be overwelmed by volunteers!

Monday 9 April 2001

Hill Poll Result

Thanks to all of you that sent me your lists of favourite and least favourite hills.
Without further ado I shall announce the results, with apologies for the delay between the close of the poll and this information.
 
By  fairly narrow margins your top three favourite hills were:
1)  Simms
2)  Bluehills 2
3)  Clinnick
 
By an even narrower margin the least favorite threesome were:
1)  Uploders 2
2)=Bedrock
     Uploders 1
 
I have complied a list of the top 15 favourite hills into a 'Fantasy Trial', and their opposite numbers in the Least Favourite section into a 'Nightmare Trial'.
 
I'm not able to post the lists right at this moment, and as I leave with the day job for a month in India tomorrow, very early, I shall have to submit them via someone else.
When you see them perhaps you might like to try your hand at compiling the road book for both, using the shortest route!!
 
I haven't forgotten that I promised a small prize for the competitor that got the hills closest to the results.   I'm glad to say that we did get a result on the hills and didn't have to resort to the Special Test Times.
The winner is a young man who has already started winning other prizes....Aaron Haizeldean.
Congratulations, Aaron, and you will get your prize when I get back.
 
Chris

Saturday 7 April 2001

Triple

Just got my copy of Triple which I immediately sat down and read from cover to cover as usual.

It was confirmed that Steve Harris is giving up the editor’s chair for "personal reasons". What a wonderful phrase. It's as informative as people that resign jobs "to pursue other interests"

I have a love hate relationship with both "Triple" and "Re-Start". I love reading them but always feel a bit controlled on an "auntie knows best" basis where either the editor or the establishment is controlling the information flow.

I have had my biggest problem with Re-Start in the days when Anne was in the editor’s chair. There was a lot of debate about the roughness of sections. I wrote a letter and Anne published an extract, which portrayed the complete opposite view I was trying to make, but endorsed her own opinion! I never really forgave her for that! In fairness to Re-Start's current editor I don't believe Pat would do that as she is very correct in everything she does and expects others to be as well. I have had a few e-mails when she has felt I was stepping out of line on my Web activities!

Steve Harris and I had a rather formal relationship when he used some stuff in Triple from my Web Site without asking or acknowledging where it came from. I thought this was most impolite and said so and he never used my stuff again! The whole thing was even more complicated as someone else wrote the piece, he had written it for the supplement I do for the Falcon magazine and I hadn't asked if I could publish it on the web myself! A mistake I haven't repeated and the author must have forgiven me as he still helps me out from time to time!

I also had problems in the past with the SODC magazine.

There is a bit of controversy over a letter Ian Blackburn wrote in an earlier Triple which upset a few members. Consequently, there is an apology in the latest Triple and a statement that "On reflection........... should not have been published".

That brings me back to paragraph 3. I believe (and will write to Triple to say so) that a member should be able to write a letter with the expectation that it is published. The fact that the club and/or it's members may or not agree or may be upset is irrelevant. It's the individuals opinion and he or she must stand the consequences if others don't like it. As much as I love my Triple I am over 21 and I don't want a sanitised "everything is rosy we all love each other " version. Or is all this perhaps part of the MCC charm? It probably is!

Michael

 
 

Problems Posting Messages - Help from Andrea

Andrea e-mailed me about various things the other day, including some advice if you are having problems posting messages. If you are having problems give it a try and let us know how you get on.
 
..........By the way I see that some people are having trouble posting messages. It is probably because they are using the 'sign me in automatically on this machine' function. If they sign out and then sign back in again it will work. It's best not to use the 'sign me in auto etc as it causes all sorts of problems...........
 
Michael

Wednesday 28 March 2001

Trials prepared Midget for sale

For Sale due to lack of time, 1500 Midget prepared for classic trials. Very comprehensive history including results etc on trials entered.

Well known on MCC events (last entered approx 5 yrs ago).

Engine runs well with strong oil pressure.

Over the 2 years I have fitted the following.

- New suspension and brakes all round, including poly rear bushes and raising the rear suspension.

- Custom Maniflow built exhaust that runs over the axle for ground clearance.

- Resprayed the car.

The car comes with 12 months MOT, 4 good tyres on it and many spares including an engine and box, that were removed from a running car (I was told that they were freshly rebuilt but have not stripped them.)

 £1250

Sunday 18 March 2001

MK2 GOLF 1800 - £450 ono

 
Please help me clear some space!
 
Mk2 Golf, 1800, 5 Door, MOT to November 10th, 3 Months TAX, Metalic Blue, Radio Cassette, A few new bits (CV Joint, Exhaust Box, Rear Brake Shoes, accelerator cable,etc)
Just had oil/water changed... 117,000 miles. Goes almost as well as the GTI but without the Insurance costs... Slight damage to N/S Front door but nothing bad!
 
01707 881772
Hatfield, Herts.

GOLF GTI FOR SALE - £850

 
D Reg, '87, GTI, 8Valve, Red, 3 Door, Factory Sunroof, Tatty 14" BBS look alloys, 12 Months MOT, 2 Months TAX, 191000 Miles and still going strong (no smoke), Stainless Steel Exhaust box, 1 New Tyre, New Handbrake cables and front Flexi Hose, Recent Service, Valve Stem Oil Seals, Rear Discs, Bearings, Pads and more..
 
Must sell as Company car comming soon...
 
짙850.
 
01707 881772
Hatfield, Herts.

Thursday 15 March 2001

Northern Trial - new date 22 September

The Northern Classic Trial has been postponed until Saturday, 22nd September.  This is still a provisional date but we are hopeful that the trial WILL run on that day.  So to all those that have already entered and to those who would still like to - see you in September.
 
For latest news from Fell Side Auto Club, look at our website at www.fsac.flyer.co.uk
 
Martin Willis
Secretary

Thursday 8 March 2001

Hill Poll

Now that the F&M epidemic appears to have put paid to any more trials before the summer break, I thought that those of you with withdrawal syptoms might like something to fill the void.
What I'm suggesting is that interested parties nominate their three Favourite Hills and three Least Favourite Hills, together with SHORT reasons for their choice.
If the hills are nominated in order of preference I can then allocate marks, say 10 for first choice, 5 for second and 3 for third and compile a table based on those scores.
If you want to take part please  e-mail me your choices at chris_n_p@hotmail.com
That way other users of the site won't know what your choice is.
Membership of this site is not a qualification for entry.
Multiple entries from triallers will be accepted, providing you use wit and humour in your reasons for the choice of hills.
Please restrict your choices to hills used on a Classic Trial in the last five years, ie from 1 Jan 1996.
 
Entries will close on 30 March 2001, and I will publish the results as soon thereafter as possible.
 
There might even be a small (very small) prize for the winner, whose choice most closely meets the aggregate choice.
 
Get thinking
 
Chris
 
 

Tuesday 6 March 2001

New Join Up procedure

Hello,
 
Just to let you all know I have got a bit fed up with people joining up and not saying who they are and/or not disclosing a valid e-mail. Consequently I have changed the site so a new member has to be approved (by me) before they can join. I believe this is the right thing to do. let me know if you disagree.
 
Michael
 

Saturday 3 March 2001

Message to new member deMontygni

Hi,
 
My name is Michael and I am the community manager. One of the rules of this community is that you must disclose either your name or an alias that allows the other members to know who you are and have a valid e-mail address.
 
I would appreciate you going along with this ny ammending your member profile in the next couple of days.
.
 
Michael

Friday 2 March 2001

Help with Escort Preperation

Posted on behalf of John Rohdes
 
May I ask for some advice on preparing an Escort, please?

I've done lots of trials of all sorts in the last forty years but only a
couple of Classics. My buddy just bought a genuine works built Mexico for
historic rallying but he also asked if I'd like to go out on a classic
occasionally, too. It seemed rude to turn him down so I had to accept, well
you do, don't you?

I noticed the back end of Escorts don't seem to be fastened to anything when
they go up rough sections, are the dampers two feet long or just taken off
altogether?

Given that we have a professionally prepped rally car, what temporary
alterations would be suitable to make, prior to a Classic trial? It will
obviously run slowly and smoothly, it will pick up cleanly and rev freely.
The bodywork is stiff and better than new. Sump, etc. guards and other skids
are fitted and we have decent seats. What about the front legs? Probably a
bit hard, any thoughts? I wondered about screwing the spring seats right out
and fitting long soft springs. (Off what, though) I suppose just using
longer spring shackles at the back will fix that end, subject to something
doing with the dampers.

It has Minilites available as well as any others we might need, what tyres
are OK to use, sizes, compounds, brands, treads? Can we use, say, 14" steels
off anything, like a Sierra? Stud PCD's spring to mind.

This all came about because after he built a decent 911 for sprints and
hillclimbs from a few boxes of bits there are enough bits to make a second
rough one and I said "let's go for a jacked up Porsche for Classic
Trialling", when he stopped foaming at the mouth he suggested using the
Escort. Humph!  I'll persue that one later in the year, watch this space.

Any suggestions are welcome.

John Rhodes. West Yorkshire.

Tuesday 27 February 2001

Posting problems

I'm still trying to work out what I did to be able to send that last message (the first one in weeks!) even if the font was minute.

Andrew

Foot and mouth

Everyone should keep a daily watch here:
http://www.msauk.org/news/newsfrm.htm
to see the official MSA view.
Andrew

Trials Car Wanted

Marlin M type, preferably long chassis and trials prepared.
 

Monday 26 February 2001

Check out the updates to Andrew Browns Site

 
There is some great new stuff on Axles and Diffs and a fantasic piece on "Juniper"
 
Michael

Sunday 25 February 2001

Murray's March Hare cancelled

copied from the Falcon Motor Club community website:-
Murray's March Hare Cancelled
 
I have just had a call from Mike Pearson to say that they have had to cancel the March Hare due to the Foot and Mouth epidemic. Our Kensworth venue is in the area that has been quarantined and it looks as though it will get worse. If you know anybody who was taking part in any way, marshalling or competing could you please let them know?
 
Andrea

Thursday 22 February 2001

Posting Problems, Help wanted

Hi everyone,
 
Andrew B and Simon W are having posting problems. Simon has sent me the following:-
 
I find myself in the strange situation that every time I try to post a message,  the function appears to work OK but the message just dissapears into the ether.   Has anyone else reported this?    I know other people have posted messages since this started happening to me.    I am using MS Explorer as my brower, accessing directly, not via compuserve.
Any ideas??
SIMON
 
Can anyone help?
 
Michael

Wednesday 21 February 2001

The Clee?

Does anyone know whether the Clee Hills trial will be run? If there is some definate news perhaps someone could let me know,many thanks, Hazel.

Tuesday 20 February 2001

Trailer debate the return

I would add this to the previous trailer section but every time I try to read it it makes my computer hang. As one of the further flung competitors I used to pride myself in driving to and from events in the DAF, aided on one or two occasions by the RAC truck. I would endorse the concern that others have shown for trailer use allowing the use of vehicles only driveable for short distances. My Marlin is pretty comfortable, if cold, to drive for long distances and on the Land’s End I will usually do a round trip of 600 miles back to the trailer. I don’t think it is unreasonable for us to do the other part of our journey in doors. We have tried the hood and decided that the protection it afforded wasn’t worth it so it gets left at home. Finally any event outside of the north requires a stop away of at least one night and the storage capacity of the Marlin does tend to encroach on our expectations of basic hygiene (I have a very large toothbrush but don’t tell anyone else)

Tony

Sunday 18 February 2001

BLAST FROM THE PAST

Photo 21 titled Frank Edkins.
This is not Frank for two reasons:-
1) In 1971 Frank`s car had the reg of JAC166D, which was brought new in 1966 and as I was passenger for Frank in 1971 I know it is not us.
2) As far as I`m awaer Frank`s previus car did not have a perfixe letter.
 
Photo 84
This is Dennis Greenslade in the Autocavan Beetle 1302s
 
Ian Bates

Friday 16 February 2001

Test Post

Sorry to disturb you Ladies and Gents. This is a test post to see if the line length thing is fixed. Also to see if I can post at all because I both Simpn W and Andrew B have reported problems.
 
btw - I am enjoying the trailer debate - just keep it clean!
btw 2 - A certain class eight driver I know, who does not use a trailer hates Beetles - because we leave our engines running while waiting for sections!
btw3 - I am working at the Boat, Caravan and Leisure Show every day but the last one. If you are visiting drop by and see me for a cup of tea.
 
Michael

Thursday 15 February 2001

Trailer Debate Mk2

The Trailer Debate - Afresh
Discussion list    Previous discussion Next discussion 
  
Started by: Mark Rosten-Edwards Sent: 12/02/2001 12:58 5 Replies
Hi all

Below is the text lifted out of "My Exmoor". I hope the people involved do not mind.

I personally have driven the Escort to and from the meetings. My thoughts surround
 the wheels which take a fair bashing in our sport. Bent rims and cut tyres are all

always managed to return home on tyres I carry in the boot which have usually done just
 the road sections. But what happens when you haven't got any/enough left? Thinking of
it how many of us check the inside tyre walls before returning home? A trailer would
seem a better option for safety alone.

Having said that there is a definite pleasure in driving the Escort still covered in
mud back to London and looking at all the faces in the 4x4s, which will see about as
 much mud as Mika Hakkinen's McLaren will! And certainly never see the delights of
 Crackington, Tillerton, Blue Hills, Simms and the like.

Anyway read on as there are people below who know, and have experienced, an awful
lot more than I have.

Mark

 

From Chris Phillips

This is not strictly a contribution to the 'My Exmoor' discussion; more a response to
Michael's views on trailering cars to and from trials as expressed in his report on the
 Exmoor over on Classical Gas.

Dudley's views on this are well known and respected and carry a lot of weight in a sport
that he has competed in with distinction for many, many years.

Michaels views on Class 8 cars are also valid - but not if you're 6'4" tall!

Both Stuart Harrold and I are around this height. If it weren't for the ability to
trailer to and from one day events, or back from the MCC events I doubt if either of
us would compete.

Stuart's Troll has just about enough leg room for us to operate in for relatively
short periods of time.

But cramp etc sets in after a short time. The Land's End instruction after Hoskin
 '.... turn left on to the A 30 and in approximately 23 miles turn right at ...'
is purgatory.

For the sake of my and my chauffeur's arthritic knees and ankles leave us have the
luxury of returning from trials in some comfort, not cramped up in the car like
 sardines in a can.

On the Manx I tried the passengers position in a Cannon, just prior to the last hill.
 How anybody over 5'4" can operate in those I do not know.
 
From: Michael Leete
 Sent: 03/02/2001 21:55
 3 of 4
 
I think Ed's experiences compared to mine highlight how hard it is or organisers to
cater for the wide range of capabilities of cars and drivers. I know I would really
have struggled in my Beetle on some of the stuff Dudley climbed with ease. I was
interested to hear how long Ed had to wait at the holding control for the first section.
 I should think the last car must have finished pretty late.

A couple of words on Chris's message - hope to find out for myself before I get to old
as I rather fancy a Troll or a Dellow. Only problem is that guy's like David Thompson
 get in while I am still thinking!

Certainly I was pretty comfortable in Dudley's car. It was about 135 miles from The
 New Forest to Barnstaple in conditions hovering around freezing. I was surprised
 but I didn't get cold in the gear I borrowed from Dudley and Fred Gregory. As I
said I was pretty comfortable and went to sleep for most of the journey back!

Michael
 
From: Mike Furse
 Sent: 09/02/2001 20:52
 4 of 4
 
Surely the topic of trailering cars to meetings is worthy of a separate subject,
 rather than added to a report on one specific event.

Although now known as Classic Trials, we are all involved in RELIABILITY Trials. To
me this means, among other things, that the cars should be comfortable enough to
 drive for more than the small mileage that the average one-day event uses.

There are arguments for using trailers to get to and from events. Convenience and
safety being two that spring to mind. The idea of using a trailer because the vehicle
is next-to-impossible to drive on the road strikes me as a very poor argument indeed.
 I drive the car I do because I am comfortable driving it. I don't fit in a Dellow
and I have problems with Trolls, so I don't drive them. I sold my very competitive
Class 8 special because it was too uncomfortable to drive for any distance. The
 next owner did the same!

Dud regularly makes fools of most of his fellow competitors in Class 8 and even
 greater fools of those of us (yes, I use a trailer!) in the other classes.

His car is driven to and from all meetings and his stamina is such that, although
 his passenger may fall asleep on the way home, Dud does not! More power to him.

This argument is important because it is linked to what Mike has to say about the
 difficulties of trying to run an event for cars of such widely differing abilities.
 The supply of suitable vehicles for classes 3,4,5 and 6 is fast running out (the
 newest Escort Mk2 is now over 20 years old!). Competitive vehicles in Class 1 tend
 to be odd to say the least. Class 2 competitors are increasingly concerned about
the severity of sections and do not contest the one-day trials in great numbers.
Against that, some kitcars are now modified almost beyond recognition and a lot
of the things in Class 8 were not designed to be used on the road at all and,
increasingly, organisers are laying out courses to stop them. The fact is that
most of the successful cars tend to arrive on a trailer. Is this because they
 have been developed to the point that they cannot be driven comfortably (or,
indeed, safely) for any distance on the road?

At the moment, organisers do a pretty good job at squaring this particular circle,
 but if things develop too much further some competitors will be demanding that we
 take the events off the public highway altogether as their vehicles are too
uncomfortable to drive on the roads!

The time is fast approaching when we will have to decide which way our sport is going.

Mike Furse.


Add reply   First Previous 1-5 of 5 Next Last 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
From: Michael Leete Sent: 13/02/2001 23:34 1 of 5
Posted on behalf of Duncan Stephens as he has had technical troubles:-
 
Michael,  I have tried to write a note on the Cotswold Clouds and also on the trailer
 debate, but each time it has not displayed the message that I wrote....does the
community have the 90day rule like hotmail?? Could this be the reason.....heard
 of anyone else having problems.  Anyway, I have attached a file on the piece that
I wanted attached to the trailer debate. I kind of waffled on a bit, but am just
trying to provoke a few ideas and some discussion!!  See you Sunday at the PCT??
 I shall be their with the Nova ballasted, but just found out that I have got
Simon Harris in the class too, so may put some more ballast in as I know the
 Nova will not pull second and also it is going to be wet isn't it? Are you doing
 the event?  Duncan I was suppose to be doing a sporting trial the weekend of the
Cotswold Clouds, but it was cancelled due to us not being able to get into the
 field. Instead of watching it rain all day, Dad and I decided to go and watch
the Cotswold Clouds.  I must say that I generally agree with what has been said
 about the use of trailers in getting trials specials to and from events. We do
 have to ask ourselves if this is the image that the sport wishes to portray to
 the general public that our cars are not ideal for travelling on the public highway?
 Think of the safety implications if one of these cramped "specials" was unfortunately
 involved in an accident. I personally feel that the issue of safety is becoming

about their products (the NCAP results). Whilst watching Crooked Mustard and
Merves Swerve on the Cotswold Clouds we did notice that some of the specials

due to the climbing ability of the competitive special, tyre pressure restrictions

 circle. One special appeared to be down right dangerous in our few. On Crooked
 Mustard the front was in the air between the second and third corner, then right
 up the bank after the third corner. Then this same special had them back in the


just think what it is like going over speed bumps!  Ballast is banned in


trials, it is just not quite as severe but these "cars" have to be driven on the road.
 This is not against specials generally, after all we all have a great deal of
admiration for Dudley and his J2, but can some of the class 8 vehicles actually
be called cars? Would many of them be strictly legal if we came across a policeman

protrude beyond a certain point behind the back bumper??!!  Saloon cars are getting
harder and harder to find in a good condition, and as the hills become tougher
 and rougher to stop the specials, it is to the detriment of the saloons as it
 is only doing more damage to them.  This is only really suppose to be thought
 provoking and not against class 8 specials, as I am sure that they have their
 place in classic trials. What would organisers do without then?! I appreciate
 just how very hard it is for organisers to stop the specials whilst not making
it too hard for everyone else. Duncan 
 

From: stuartharrold Sent: 14/02/2001 10:59 2 of 5
This is an interesting subject and I know my regular bouncer has had his say on
 trailers. So now my thoughts as I trailer my Troll to all trials that do not
start at Popham airfield, so why. All the other classics start at least 120 miles
 from home and that means a 120 mile trek home in the dark after the event,
 usually on a Sunday evening. I enjoy driving my Troll around country lanes,
 B roads and the odd rural A road. I do not enjoy driving on Trunk roads and
Motorways, nothing to do with the safety of the Troll but all to do with
vulnerability, I just do not enjoy being 'beaten up' by Arctic trucks as
 they flash by at 70 m.p.h. especially on a dark wet night. Remember even
the MCC has removed the dreaded run down the A303 from the route of the Lands End
 and Exeter trials. Now another reason, cost. I am lucky in that my employer
 provides me with a very comfortable 3 litre saloon and all the fuel that it
uses. So other than income tax it costs me nothing to get to and from events,
a big plus when doing the Northern, Edinburgh, Lands End etc. I can also easily
tow at 60 mph which is a bit faster than the Trolls cruising speed of 45 to 50 mph.
 I am sure some not so fortunate will agree. Another reason, if the worse happens
 and the car breaks down I have transport handy and can get everything home in a
 reasonable time without having to hang around for the RAC or similar. Lastly it
 is very nice to be able to drive home in a warm car in dry clothes listening to
 the radio after a hectic days trialing. I enter classic trials to drive and
compete on trials, not to drive a trials car on a motorway or similar.

I plan to continue in my 'soft' non spirit of classic trials ways for as long as
I have a trailer!!!
Stuart Harrold

From: stuartharrold Sent: 14/02/2001 11:07 3 of 5
Sorry all, I spent considerable time typing a reply only to find only a few
disjointed lines had got onto the system. I cannot be bothered to do it all again.
Stuart Harrold

From: Mike Furse Sent: 14/02/2001 18:36 4 of 5
What's happened to the line lengths in this discussion?  Or is it me!!?  I like
to print out some of these discussions to distribute to friends.
 This is now impossible.         Mike Furse.

From: Michael Leete Sent: 14/02/2001 23:50 5 of 5
Yes this is strange. I know with Duncan's stuff I had a problem because I cut
 and pasted it. However, it all seems to have gone up the chute. I am interested
to see what happens to this post.

Michael

Tuesday 13 February 2001

Clee Hills Results

Hi everyone,
 
Simon W has e-mailed me a copy of the Clee Hills Results which I am attaching to this message as an Excel file. They make very interesting reading.
 
Michael

My 1st trial, the Launceston

My first trial the Launceston 11th February
Had a really great day yesterday although we didn't do very well.
Off to a fairly ok start, only getting stopped halfway up the 1st and driving straight up the second without even letting the tyres down! I dont know if we scored anything because we didnt even know we were doing it until we saw the numbers on the side of the lane, but it was a good moral booster.
Made a great splash (whoops there goes one side of the front bumper) at the special test 1 and charged up to the B post and straight up the hill with Shirley shouting STOP!! so I reversed back down to the B post to pick up a time, possibly!
It became clear to us after only moving a few feet away from the start on the next few sections that the Sierra wasn't the ideal car to be doing it in, although I did make it to the restart on the one and only I had to do, but that was it and I sat there just making a load of smoke.
Bedrock was cancelled but looking at it I think if we had negotiated the collapsed gully we would have only gone another few feet.
On the 2nd special test we though we were in real trouble on the hairpin when we nearly got completely wedged between the tree and the bank but a 23 point turn got us around eventually, managed to remember to stop at the B post this time.
On to the next section where the marshal was giving us a warning about a bolder sticking up near the top, to which I replied don't worry I probably wont even get around the corner, to which I shot off and didn't even get around the corner, Oh well onto the next section with a bit of passenger, I had a log jammed up under the car giving me about an inch of ground clearance.
The 2nd section at the pig farm wasn't to bad well I moved about a cars length anyway!
Back to the A30 and managed to get lost again. eventually found the next section as it was being closed, didn't manage to get away from the start again then promptly fell off the track and into the woods, there goes the back wing!!
On to Angel steps and after great warnings of bad steps etc we managed to get a 1 with lots of smoke and bouncing. (We could still smell the rubber on the way home).
Managed to take the other side of the front bumper out on the bridge when backing back down, I was too busy listening to the knocking from underneath which turned out to be the anti-roll bar bush that had come adrift.
On to the last few sections, still struggling to keep up with the back markers. Interesting braking characteristic with the missing bush.
But I think I got about a 6 on the 2nd to last one.
Definitely hard work but I think the car held up quite well considering.
Will try harder next time to keep up with the pack as that was definitely the most stressful part.
Think Ill try it in an Escort next time.
Did anybody get any photos of us going through the river or Angel Steps I would love to see them, we were in the blue Sierra No. 3

Monday 12 February 2001

The Trailer Debate - Afresh

Hi all

Below is the text lifted out of "My Exmoor". I hope the people involved do not mind.

Anyway read on as there are people below who know, and have experienced, an awful lot more than I have.

Mark

 

From Chris Phillips

This is not strictly a contribution to the 'My Exmoor' discussion; more a response to Michael's views on trailering cars to and from trials as expressed in his report on the Exmoor over on Classical Gas.

Dudley's views on this are well known and respected and carry a lot of weight in a sport that he has competed in with distinction for many, many years.

Michaels views on Class 8 cars are also valid - but not if you're 6'4" tall!

Both Stuart Harrold and I are around this height. If it weren't for the ability to trailer to and from one day events, or back from the MCC events I doubt if either of us would compete.

Stuart's Troll has just about enough leg room for us to operate in for relatively short periods of time.

But cramp etc sets in after a short time. The Land's End instruction after Hoskin '.... turn left on to the A 30 and in approximately 23 miles trurn right at ...' is purgatory.

For the sake of my and my chauffeur's arthritic knees and ankles leave us have the luxury of returning from trials in some comfort, not cramped up in the car like sardines in a can.

On the Manx I tried the passengers position in a Cannon, just prior to the last hill. How anybody over 5'4" can operate in those I do not know.

From: Michael Leete

Sent: 03/02/2001 21:55

3 of 4

I think Ed's experiences compared to mine highlight how hard it is or organisers to cater for the wide range of capabilities of cars and drivers. I know I would really have stuggled in my Beetle on some of the stuff Dudley climbed with ease. I was interested to hear how long Ed had to wait at the holding control for the first section. I should think the last car must have finished pretty late.

A couple of words on Chris's message - hope to find out for myself before I get to old as I rather fancy a Troll or a Dellow. Only problem is that guy's like David Thompson get in while I am still thinking!

Certainly I was pretty comfortable in Duley's car. It was about 135 miles from The New Forest to Barstaple in conditions hovering around frezing. I was surprised but I didn't get cold in the gear I borrowed from Dudley and Fred Gregory. As I said I was pretty comfortable and went to sleep for most of the journey back!

Michael

From: Mike Furse

Sent: 09/02/2001 20:52

4 of 4

Surely the topic of trailering cars to meetings is worthy of a separate subject, rather than added to a report on one specific event.

Although now known as Classic Trials, we are all involved in RELIABILITY Trials. To me this means, among other things, that the cars should be comfortable enough to drive for more than the small mileage that the average one-day event uses.

There are arguments for using trailers to get to and from events. Convenience and safety being two that spring to mind. The idea of using a trailer because the vehicle is next-to-impossible to drive on the road strikes me as a very poor argument indeed. I drive the car I do because I am comfortable driving it. I don't fit in a Dellow and I have problems with Trolls, so I don't drive them. I sold my very competitive Class 8 special because it was too uncomfortable to drive for any distance. The next owner did the same!

Dud regularly makes fools of most of his fellow competitors in Class 8 and even greater fools of those of us (yes, I use a trailer!) in the other classes.

His car is driven to and from all meetings and his stamina is such that, although his passenger may fall asleep on the way home, Dud does not! More power to him.

This argument is important because it is linked to what Mike has to say about the difficulties of trying to run an event for cars of such widely differing abilities. The supply of suitable vehicles for classes 3,4,5 and 6 is fast running out (the newest Escort Mk2 is now over 20 years old!). Competitive vehicles in Class 1 tend to be odd to say the least. Class 2 competitors are increasingly concerned about the severity of sections and do not contest the one-day trials in great numbers. Against that, some kitcars are now modified almost beyond recognition and a lot of the things in Class 8 were not designed to be used on the road at all and, increasingly, organisers are laying out courses to stop them. The fact is that most of the successful cars tend to arrive on a trailer. Is this because they have been developed to the point that they cannot be driven comfortably (or, indeed, safely) for any distance on the road?

At the moment, organisers do a pretty good job at squaring this particular circle, but if things develop too much further some competitors will be demanding that we take the events off the public highway altogether as their vehicles are too uncomfortable to drive on the roads!

The time is fast approaching when we will have to decide which way our sport is going.

Mike Furse.

Sunday 11 February 2001

Trailers, Debates, Community Membership and Stuff

As you will see, the issue of trailers has prompted some keen debate. This of course is what the community is all about. Members have strong feelings and are airing them in a forceful but civilised way. We may or may not agree with the views but we respect each poster is entitled to their opinion. Either way the community provides a valuable sounding board and quite a few influential MCC/ACTC committee members look in on the posts. So we are influential and I certainly believe member’s views posted here had some influence on The Lands End staying at Easter.

However, this brings me back to an old chestnut, that of real names. The participants in the trailer debate are either using their real names or we (regular competitors) know who they are. This means that if they go too far they know they will have to look the other person in the eye in the queue for breakfast at Tintinhull or wherever.

If you look at the community rules, you will see it is mandatory for members to either use their real names, use a nickname so that regular triallers know who you are and/or have an e-mail address that we can contact you on.

This can be done in your member profile so those only members can see it.

I see we have new members who do not comply with these conditions. If you are in this category please do not post to the community until you go to your member profile and use your full real name, or a nickname so that we (or at least I) know who you are and use a bona fide e-mail address. Otherwise, I will have to block your posts.

Michael

Community Manager

Sunday 4 February 2001

Ford Escort for sale

Not that anyone would want a Ford Escort Mk 11 but I have two cars requiring new homes.
 
1/ Car is a four door Mk 11. It has no engine,gearbox or interior heater or MOT. This lovely
vehicle does have new front ewings and a sound body. It requires the missing items a large bag of enthusiasm. It is for FREE to any one that wants it.
 
2/ The second car is a two door Mk 11, automatic (large gearbox tunnel). The body has had no welding and the front turrets are like new etc. It has done 43 000 miles from new and wishes to start a new life as a competion car. Vehicle currently MOT and can be driven away.

Friday 2 February 2001

Routecard.org

A NEW TRIALS SITE AT LAST!
Hi!
 
Just to let you all know, I just been to this new trialing website.  The site looks pretty good, even have a live video section! 
 
Also the site contains up to date trialing results and motor sports news.  Its about time we had another trialing website with new fresh ideas.
 
I been told that the site is design to support MCC/ACTC and other local events.  Routecard are even doing free advertising...
 
www.routecard.org is the address.
 
 
Regards
 
David
 

Exmoor Trial Results

John Barthram kindly e-mailed me a copy of the Exmoor Trial results which I have posted in "Files". To read them :-
 
1. Open the "Files" Menu which you should be able to see on the left hand side of the screen.
2. "Exmoor Results" is an Excel file which you should be able to see - if you can't then opon the Michael Leete folder first.
3. You will need to download the file which will take about a minute. You can save it for future reference if you like.
4. btw - organisers can easily post their regs - final instructions - results etc here themeselves. You don't need to send them to me first.
 
Michael
 
ps - I think Dudley would have won if he had a decent bouncer!

Thursday 1 February 2001

Burlington Arrow - What it it?

Hi

Does anybody know what the Burlington Arrow is? Maybe have a picture?

Why was it excluded at Tintinhull?

As an aside we receive Provisional Result but not Final Results. Is there a reason? Probably time I assume! But it would be nice to know.

 

Mark

Monday 29 January 2001

My Exmoor Trial

I had my first experience of trialling in an open car when I passengered Dudley Sterry on The Exmoor. The drive through the breaking dawn from The New Forest up to Barnstaple was of course an experience in itself. This I will write about later! All the class eight’s were running together at the head of the field and we were third car on the road. This meant that apart from a handful of class eight’s and the occasional late biker we saw very few other competitors all day.

Jenny Wren was the first section and we had a long wait, first at a holding control, then at the foot of the section itself, as the bikes were having major problems in the slippery conditions. We heard that Adrian Marfell, who is the current man to beat, didn’t get of the re-start, but when our time came we did. Although all the sections apart from Beggars were new to me none of them held any surprises for Dudley. He knew the class 8 restart was going to be on some slippery slate. His advance strategy was to trickle off, that’s exactly what he did and it worked!

Sepscott 1 and 2 and Snapper 1 and 2 were in a wood and neither posed any problems for Dudley’s J2 although Snapper 1 was a bit hairy where the track was washed away. The worst bit was after the section ends and I should think the lower classes would have had problems getting out the top.

Riverton was reserved for Solo’s and Class 8. This was because the track was badly eroded. The J2 didn’t have any problems although if we had stopped it would have tipped on it’s side we were at such an angle.

We lost our clean sheet on High Bray. It looked easy from the start line but then I couldn’t see what was around the corner! We got of the re-start OK and Dudley tried to drive up the left-hand part of the track, avoiding the "Grand Canyon" on the right. Unfortunately we didn’t quite have enough momentum and the rear slid into the canyon and that was that, well after a spirited attempt to "burn-out" it was!

We were back into another wood at for Pheasants Hill and Lower Mouland, both of which we cleaned easily although we got a flat front tyre and had to change the tube, which is nice and easy if you don’t have to break the bead! Beggars was a no problem at all. It looked completely different to The Lands End when the restart area is rough and rocky, whether with doctoring or because it gets cut up by the earlier numbers, or both!

We got a route amendment at Beggars, substituting Lyncombe Bridge with Scoresdown (anybody know why?). This was nice and easy which is more than could be said for the last hill at Floyds Bank, a grassy weave amongst or through the goarse bushes. The J2 didn’t want to steer properly and Dudley couldn’t get it straight enough to attack the last bank so we dropped another couple of marks. I would think this would have been a nightmare for the lower classes.

John Lees came over for a quick chat at the finish then there just remained the matter of the drive back to The New Forest to pick up my Volvo to go back to Bedfordshire. I got home at 9.30 pm having left at 2.45 am. 600 miles in all, two thirds of it in an open car with no hood and no windscreen! A long day but what a fantastic adventure. More of which over the next few days over on The Classical gas Web Site. I would love to hear more about the trial because running at the front we hardly saw anyone else.

How was your Exmoor Trial?

Michael

Falcon's March Hare Classic - 11th March

Murrays March Hare Classic Trial - 11th March
 
Starting and Finishing just off the A1(M) near Stevenage in Hertfordshire
 
Approximately 15 sections (at least 4 on "real roads") over approximately 80 road miles.
 
Clubsport Permit Event - No Competition Licence necessary - You just have to be a member of the MCC or Falcon.
 
It will be smooth enough to take part in your "pride and joy" and still be able to drive it home, but competitive enough so the battle between the class eights should be decided on the hills.
 
The regs are now out and I will mail them to people who have already contacted me over the next few days.
 
Otherwise e-mail me your name and Snail Mail and I will post you a set.
 
Michael
 
 
 

Tuesday 23 January 2001

Clee Hill Trial

What a shame that the Clee Hill had to be cancelled. We competitors were unhappy not to have our days sport. But what about the organisors, think of the hours of hard work put in by the organising team not to mention the money spent. So thanks to all the organisors for all the effort, I hope that it was not wasted and some can be used when the trial finally runs. Any chance that the event will run later this year?
Stuart Harrold

Monday 22 January 2001

John Lees Photographs

John,
Thanks for putting up the Exeter photo of Stuart Harrold and his Troll.
I would like to ask your permission to use the photo in an article that I've written on the Trial for inclusion in the newsletters of the Southsea Motor Club and the Ross Motor Club.
Eiher reply through the Community, or direct to my e-mail chris_n_p@hotmail.com
Thanks
Chris

Sunday 21 January 2001

Photographer and Reporter wanted for Falcons Edleshorough PCT on 28th January

Hi,
 
I will be doing the Exmoor Trial on Sunday 28th so I will miss The Edlesborough Trial. Can I make a plea for volunteer(s) to take some digital pics and/or gather some info for my report.
 
I have a camera you can borrow if necessary.
 
Michael

Wednesday 17 January 2001

Tuesday 16 January 2001

2cv for sale

2cv for sale

As shown on the front of the web community site I am selling the trusty friend.

It has competed well, climbing hills such as Blue Hills, Crackington, and Sugg Lane!

It comes with a Galvanised chassi, visa 650cc engine more spares than able to number including a low ratio gearbox. Professional sump plate with strengthened bumper, reclining seats and weights.

Good cheap first trials car.

Offers around 짙1000.00

Monday 15 January 2001

Trials Books on the Web

If there is anyone who is looking for out of print books on trialling (or any other subject for that matter) I found (courtesy of a reccomendation in the Telegraph) a very good site a couple of weeks ago.
 
It's called www.abebooks.com and it allows you to search by subject, author or key words.
 
I was looking for a copy of 'More Wheelspin' by CAN May and the search by author turned up 27 entries, including three for the one I wanted.   The site is used by booksellers both here and abroad and their prices are not too steep.   I got a good condition 1948 edition of the book in hardback for £15 plus P+P and it turned up next day after my phone call.
 
I was fairly amused when a pile of a paperback reprint of the same books were at the ACTC awards bash on the Sunday morning after the Exeter.  I think I prefer my original.
Happy book hunting
 
Chris
 

Saturday 13 January 2001

MAPS, old and new.

 For your information, it is now possible to download sections of the Ordnance Survey 1:50000 Landranger series of maps from http://www.ordnancesurvey.gov.uk.
 
Another site you may be interested in is http://www.old-maps.co.uk . This site has the complete set of GB maps from the late 19th century, at a scale 0f 1:10560. It is a very interesting site if you are researching old hills, or maybe your house history. The site has just been up-graded and although the latest site is dead easy to navigate by just typing in a post code, the old site ( available by clicking on "old site" at the top of the page) has a far higher resolution and is easier to right click/save as.
 
Other sites that I know of are http://www.multimap.com  for general map information and  http://www.getmapping.com  which has/is taking aerial photographs of the whole of Great Britain.
 
 

Thursday 4 January 2001

Non Starter for No's 85 and 257

Happy New Year to all,
 
Bad news unfortunately, our entry no:257 Singer, and Tim Short/Ian Blackburn no:85 Singer for the Exeter Trial 2001 are already looking like non starters.  Ian had to go into hospital a couple of weeks ago and was unable to finish his and our car preparations for the Exeter.  I understand he is mending slowly so we will have to leave it to the Lands End before we get the chance to trial the cars on an M.C.C. event, maybe we might even have a Singer team by then.
 
I will try and get some pics of the Classic Gasser's on Simms probably so say cheese as you go past
 
Kevin Barnes