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19th & 20th June, Tipperary,
report from Andy Collins
The trip to Ireland proved to be
a huge success with all 12 drivers enjoying themselves immensely.
The Tipperary circuit was a lot faster than most imagined
- a super track nonetheless with a new surface and banked
corners, resembling Hednesford in many ways. It took it's
toll on engines however, Mark Hodge's engine letting go in
practice Saturday, Neil Clarke's baffle plate somehow managed
to wrap itself around the cam, and Steve Terry, had to overcome
a sheared drive shaft in practice on Saturday. This was repaired
in time to enjoy a full Saturday evening, but Sunday he found
foreign bodies bouncing on number 1 cylinder which put paid
to any further racing for him. Chris Phillips; who enjoys
the quick circuits was flying around all weekend, he managed
a deserved victory on Saturday, but it was newly crowned European
Champion and in form Alan Buckland who was the double winner
on Saturday, and overall points scorer, winning the Irish
Cup into the bargain.
Sunday was all about yellow grade
and Vice Chairman Barry Goldsby. He steered his new Stealth
to a hat trick in emphatic style. Holding off challenges from
Allan, Rob, Chris and Andrew in the final, crossing the line
with 8 or so drivers around him was a superb feat. Barry was
overjoyed, and was also rumoured to be seen wearing a superman
outfit late on Sunday evening!!!!! Other drivers worth mentioning
(and my tip to win a big one soon ) is Dave Smith. His car
looks the business, went well all weekend and worthy of his
star grade status. He also loaned his car to Mark for the
last race who came a creditable 3rd. Ez Walker still managed
a smile when his season is going no better. Ez is dogged with
mechanical problems at the moment and must have been hugely
disappointed with the racing, but the Guinness must have taken
some of the pain away at least.
  
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