Illawarra Chapter Karting Practice
18 September 2016 / Story and photos: Brendan Barr. Video: Geoff Pollard
Geoff Pollard's race track videos here (Thanks Geoff!)
Two prior go kart ‘practice’ sessions had failed to identify our team for the October inter chapter challenge, although some Illawarra reputations had been tarnished.
A third round was proposed to cement the final team that will no doubt sweep the other chapters off the track and finally deliver the much vaunted trophy to the southerners.
The early morning meeting at Figtree Maccas uncovered new members keen to try their skills against the veteran stalwarts. ‘There is no competitive streak within the chapter’ was the advice given. ‘If you want to pass, just give a wave and you are sure to be signalled through.’
The vets hoped this advice would consign them to the back of the field while they sped off into the lead.
Upon arrival at the Picton track, we were soon kitted up and ready to race.
Motors roared to life and it was clear from the start that no quarter would be asked for or given! A senior member was utterly dismayed to be passed by a flying cart that cut over a concrete bump strip (and some grass, he suspects) to snatch the front. To his utter dismay he also noted that a female was driving! ‘Must have a better power to weight ratio,’ he muttered as he tried to retake his rightful position, to no avail.
There were spins aplenty, corners were jostled for, and the occasional coming together of carts resulted in some grass cutting for any unfortunate cart on the outside. Any spins were naturally blamed on cold tyres or manic driving by someone else.
Session one finished and we all gathered around the time sheets, claims of underpowered engines, flat tyres, fading brakes and poor suspension, along with suggestions of self-preservation were just some of the reasons put forward to explain any poor lap times.
Session two proved to be no different, with similar stories to cover the unexpected.
All jokes aside, we had a marvellous time with plenty of light hearted banter at the track, and afterwards at Picton pub, where many of us gathered to enjoy a great lunch before departing for home.
The track times have been taken home for further study before the final announcement of the team. Maybe ANOTHER session will be required????
Thanks to our trusty camera woman, recruited from the family of our newly signed members, who took the fantastic photos.
