As the 2024 season continues, the Mini Rally Challenge descended on Anglesey, for the SMC Stages at Trac Mon. The first tarmac round of the season was dry but windy, and for most crew fairly plain sailing, with only 3 DNFs out 16 starters.
George Clarke and Stephen Moses took the top step in the R53 class, followed by Guy Butler and Oliver Wagott in second and Toney Webb and David Robinson taking home third. The R50s were led to the finish by Wesley Gilford and Andrew Millington who started their lead on stage 1 and held on to it to the end. Owen Cule and Matt Walk took home the second place, Mark Christopher and Kevin Watkins rounding off the podiums and taking home third after a strong consistent day.
Heart break for Jack Birch and Mike Jode, as they were set for a strong second place in the R50 class despite breaking a rear shocker on the first stage and having to replace it with a standard part, helpfully loaned by a fellow competitor. Their hard work was unfortunately undone, when their clutch gave way on the final stage resulting in a DNF.
Jacob and Russel spent the first few stages battling with George Clarke and John Clayton, until they first encountered brake problems, followed by the engine overheating and eventually a blown head gasket in stage 4. George and Stephen’s lead was extended over stages 4 and 5, after John Clayton tested the off-road capability of his R53 in tarmac spec, resulting in a stage max and Guy Butler put his car into a spin on stage 5.
Our 3rd DNF was Tom Hynd and Dave Mathews, out in their newly build 53, amongst other teething problems, they lost there clutch on the second stage, but managed to nurse it home.
Gareth Humpreys and Adam Burkill started steady until they had an argument with a tractor tyre on stage 2, tipping the car onto 2 wheels and bending a steering arm. After limping back to service, their crew managed to get them back on track to put in a solid set of stages to the finish. Despite suffering fuelling issues they came home in 6th place bringing some points and poised for the Manx.
Flo Butler completed her first stage rally as a senior with veteran Co Driver Paul stringer sat next to her. Flo also suffered fuelling issues, but she increased her pace and confidence over the day putting in some smooth and solid stages and getting the finish.
Finally, Martin Williams and Martin Allwood finished a close 4th, only 16 seconds behind 3rd, a great finish for their newly built mini and their first time out. They had a few issues including the car cutting out before the stage start on one of the morning runs.
Big thank you to the organisers – Stockport 061 Motor Club and marshals for once again organising and running a brilliant event and for inviting the Mini Rally Challenge to be a part of it.
Also to all of the crews and supporters of the Mini Rally Challenge for all of your hard work and involvement.
Next up, round 3.... The Isle of Man!
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