A sad weekend for the sport

At Hednesford yesterday, our sport of short track oval racing was hit a devastating blow. At the Pre 68 banger meeting, a driver was killed.

When I heard the sad news of the death of Dave Weare, (78) who drove Bangers with Autospeed, it sent shivers down my spine, and my thoughts went instantly to the family and friends, the spectators who witnessed it and the officials who had to deal with it.

It is something, that gratefully we seldom see, but this doesn't make it easy for any involved.

Driver and spectator safety should be, and always be paramount. We are responsible for our own actions ultimately - these accidents happen.

The investigations and whys and wherefors will no doubt take place, but one thing we should never forget is the risks that these drivers make for the sake of entertainment.

And as a final point, to the sick scum of the earth that are posting pictures of the event on the various forums and on Facebook, have some moral fibre. Or failing that some intelligence or the merest hint of a brain, and remove this. There's a family without a dad, brother and son tonight, just put yourself in there shoes.

I hope Incarace hand out life bans to these people, they don't deserve to be fans of our sport.

RIP Dave - race in peace, mate.

Dominator Standings: The Mendips Maestro....

Collated from the Dominator Chart, and seeing as the Mendip F2 season is over- here are the standings to see who was the most dominant at the Bristol. It hasn't been the best seasons there by their own admission-  numbers have been down. I hope better cooperation between St Day and Bristol can avoid unnecessary clashes. So, in the dominator stakes not a great deal of points up for grabs...

The facts and figures.....

6 Meetings - 44 Point Scorers

The boy who's doing his GCSE's in his RCE takes the title, as Jack Aldridge holds off Bradbury and Hooper, who both missed a meeting or two. Chris Mikkula's home track consistency pays off, and top 5 is completed by Justin Fisher.




921 Jack Aldridge
120
886 Chris Bradbury
116
676 Neil Hooper
102
522 Chris Mikkula
101
315 Justin Fisher
74.5
990 Paul Rice
72
14 Mike Priddle
70
189 Paul Butcher
68.5
783 James Rygor
64
76 Chris Rowe
60
954 Jamie Beere
59.5
677 Chris Roots
51.5
797 Dan Moss
51.5
254 Richard Beere
50
605 Liam Rowe
45.5
438 Mike Rice
42.5
126 Jamie Avery
40.5
835 Matt Westaway
38.5
374 Gary Stephens
37.5
53 Phillip Mann
37
24 Jon Palmer
36.5
544 James Rogers
32
606 Andrew Palmer
29
464 Matt Linfield
29
276 Murray Jones
22
935 Nathan Maidment
22
245 Paul Milsom
20.5
162 Rich Swales
19.5
916 Luke Thomas
18
823 Sam Wagner
17.5
116 Ashley Rundle
13
120 Luke Loveland
11.5
785 Liam Deeble
11
NI 271 Gary Chambers
11
744 Tom Smart
9.5
127 Matt Stoneman
9
290 Jay Tonkin
8.5
768 Tom Adcroft
8
505 Ivor Collins
7
305 Colin Gregg
6
830 Andrew Bennett
5
707 Jeremy Moss
5
550 Andy Sobey
5
658 Dean Mason
3

The Waffle is back.

Ian Bennett, known affectionally hereafter as "Beaks", has been one of the fiercest critics of the decision to award to 2012 World to Barford. Since his Batten bothering days as a member of the feared and revered "BLT" (Beaks, Lee and Terry) which used to adorn Lee Guinchard's cars in the Elite days. Nowadays he's very much part of the proper racers, mingling with the likes of the touring car folk, and well to be honest, always has a soft spot for F2 boys. He even used own the "Waffle house" page in Unloaded. He isn't happy

....and Beaks is off a long run akin the West Indian bowlers of the late 1970's. Hope you've got your helmet on Cyril - he's gunning for you...

Hey kids.

I don’t post on here much these days – one too many #7 threads... and not enough thinking before typing... but still... I feel the need to comment on the decision to run the 2012 world at Barford.

Now, as many of y’all know I’ve been around this sport for many years – seen drivers and tracks come and go... all part of the cycle we call life... however...
The decision to allow Barford to have another world final is just a joke. A joke that only raises a smile when you laugh at the sheer lunacy of it all. We all know that the place is an ‘action track’ and yes, I do agree that it’s a proper old school ‘stock car track’ but it doesn’t deserve to have world final status.

When there are so many good stadiums around, this choice is just absurd. I’m fully aware that the WF is on a rota system and it’s the turn of Barford, but there really should be some guidelines drawn up as to what is and what isn’t required by a world final venue. I agree that the ‘promotion’ as to whom is given the right to run a semi can still do this... but just at an alternate location as has been done (successfully) in the past.

Irrespective of the above, you also need to look at the World Final held at Barford before. The way it was staged, presented and run clearly shows that the folk involved clearly didn’t give two shits about putting on a show. I’m sure I’ll be attacked for saying that and cool, that’s fine – but I have no doubt whatsoever that most racing folk would agree with me.

I recall at the time it was advertised as a ‘no frills stock car world final’ and a big deal was made that the price was lower than what one would expect from a world final (due to the lack of frills etc). Now as far as I’m concerned that’s bullshit. It points more at a promotion that really can’t be bothered for the paying public and also the event itself.

OK, so times are hard for everyone – I fully appreciate that. But one would imagine that folk would rather pay another £4 or so to go to ‘an event’ – not just another domestic meeting with a flash trophy. The fans appreciate a big, exciting meeting and also, which some would perhaps forget the drivers also do too. Extra costs are never fun – but for those who would find it hard to pay that little bit more can always do one meeting a year less – that’s pretty much all it’d take.

When you have folk like Paul Brown et all working tirelessly to promote the sport (of which, it is obvious that things are improving, steadily), why on earth would you run a WF here ?? Would you even want your sponsors to be taken to a place like Barford ??

I’ve heard many horror stories about how people are treated at Barford – from drivers to photographers to fans. It’s not the place here to discuss, pull apart and analyse them as it’d solve nothing. But those of you close to the sport and the drivers will be aware that it’s not the friendly place that it’s often made to be.

Right, that’s all you’re gonna get from me.

Peace and love, always.

Beaks

Rumour - Wood Widening his World??

Rumours abound that everyone's favourite marmite promoter, Deane Wood, is in the market for a new track. There are rumours that he is freeing up some money to take on an assualt for another track, and there are quite a few to potentially choose from....

SKEGNESS

It's been no secret that Skegness has been up for sale for some time. Hazel Cooke, the promoter is looking. for a way out. She is promoter designate for the cash cow that is the F1 world final, and would be a fitting way to retire. It would be a useful fit for Wood - the Spedeworth lot would have another East Anglian track to race on, and Wood would love to have the Uk Speedweekend, one of the biggest (if not the biggest) meetings of the year.

BUXTON

Now Dave Pierce has been looking to retire from promoting duties, especially now he is a major part in the FORDS benevolent fund, again he has been stepping back. A northern track with all the necessary and not under threat from the developer, it could be a very good fit.


RINGWOOD

Deano's been here before, he took over after Reg Slack's death, but pulled out soon after, leaving the track out of the ORCi fold with the Trojan organisation. However rumours abound that they are looking for a cash injection, and Barford Cyril's there too, which is too beleived with a pinch of salt.

ARENA

Constantly struggling for car numbers for the 2's, Arena is potentially a track that could benefit from a superstox influx. Deep in the heartland of Spudworth, and with Wimbo under threa, it would be a perfect fit for Wood.


Stilll all rumour and conjection, and my source is a friend of a friend, but he certainly seems to be a behemoth in the UK oval racing scene.

Super Simmo - Ruddy Muddy Marvellous!

Apologies for the delay in this report going up, a combination of driving back to Cornwall and being generally knackered from the trevails of the last couple of weeks of solid updates!
 
So I woke up at the crack of Dawn, which was a suprise to the girlfriend because she's called Sharon, and set out the plan for the big world final drive. Bacon butty in my fuel tank, diesel in the car, it was King's Lynn bound.With this World final being the most hyped ever, it was time to deliver!

The View from J-ho K Coral!

We arrived just after 12, in the field/car park, to a light shower. Ok, that was expected says I, clinging to my forelawn hope that the weather forecast might be right. On entering the track it was apparent lots of money had been spent since 2000, and it looked really good. A really professional looking stadium - exactly what the sport needs more of-  especially as many tracks are in various states of delapidation. We set up camp for the prime position, by the pit gate coming out the opening crucial bend, for that crash that was potentially going to happen between him and you know who.

With the big screen looking dominant on turns 3 and 4, and showing the various races past including the insomnia inducing semi finals. It was also good to see that a good build up was being used to its full abilities, with Steve Linfield and Matt Black doing interviews on the infield and in the pits. Indeed, it's something I'd like to see repeated if its feasiable, gives the spectator a further insight, and well, helps everyone see the celebrations. If the sport is to improve its profile, more gambles have to be made on this.

Another good idea on paper was the autograph sessions for the drivers, it was just a shame that not all the drivers took to it, there were a couple of disappointed young faces coming back. I was reminded by ex F2 driver Geoff Bunn, that in 1989 at Newton Abbot - all the competitors put their cars in the track for a meet and greet the fans session on the track, which was a nice touch. It would only take an hour to do, and with most competitiors there from the start, again something that could be tried again.

Now to the programme. £5 did seem a little steep at first glance, but with a free mini air blower thingy with your favourite driver to make some noise with it certainly worked. 56 full colour A4 colour pages (remember Unloaded is 32 and £3.50) with plenty of things that you need from a World Final Programme, welcome, insight, season review, history, driver previews, and interviews, and loads of opinion pieces from such luminaires as Rosevear, Linfield, Hughes, Bunter and Randall. There was also a piece by some bloke called Jonny Hoare, don't know who he is. It certainly ranks up there with the greats and there certainly is a challenger to the Autospeed crown now.

Nice touches in the pits meaning that each world finalist had a pit bay marked and in order, so that they came out in order and there was no sorting required. Time to go racing.

The international time trials proved one thing - the need for an international semi final. There were probably 5 dutch drivers probably more than capable of filling a spot on the grid, including some title contenders. Still the Dutch were flying, the Irish slowly getting to grips and the Isle of Man making up the numbers.

The consolation semi was fast and furious. Goldin got away as predicted, but the battle behind, with Lee Dimmick (59) showing a good pair of heels. In the closing laps it became a battle between the shale "specialists", with Mark Simpson (871), Steve Wycherley (662), Rob Mitchell (905), Brian Shadbolt (70) and Carl Issit (103) making up the lucky half dozen. After a support heat aced by Anthony Winters (260), and another brutal Saloon race. I don't think I've seen a dull one this season.

Then a period of track prep took place, and then whislt we like omens on this site, the saloon world final was shown on the big screen. Hmmm, that could happen again you know...

Then as the immortal words was said, it was also time to "Specatators, put up your brollies!", as the heavens opened with the mother of all rain showers. For me, 2 first time experiences, a wet shale race and a wet world final. Skeg 92 was the last world final run in wet conditions. So what would become of Moodie and Speak? Would Palmer go for it?

This video from Stevie1C1 from youtube shows the entire race.


 

So congratulations to Skegness stalwart and all round thoroughly nice chap, Mark Simpson (871) who showed whilst others lose their heads, only the coolest of the cool rise to the top. It was a race of attrition, a last man standing competition, more familar to bangers than Stock Cars, as out of the 38 that started - only 6 finished, and only 3 of those were on the same lap. We saw plenty of lead changes, plenty of bumper action, and yet, the weather spoilt it
Wet shale made it near on impossible to distinguish cars, (apart from the luminous Allen Cooper (702))and with the PA so quiet it was guess work for the majority of the fans to make out who was in the lead. There was a "dubious" yellow flag with about 6/7 to go, Moodie gone in the distance, Cooper catching, Cooper moving Moodie on to the mud, then Cooper drowning in the same mud, allowing Simpson to take it through. Of the 6 finishers, 4 came from the consolation, so proof that once again- you have to be in it to win it.

So to Simmo, everyone's favourite camp site owner, now Champion of the World, massive congratulations. I stood with a fair amount of Skeggy regulars and drivers, and the utmost respect was given.

Covered in shale, but covered in glory! Simmo's smile is golden

Again another driver who woke up that morning thinking, "it's not my year", has woken up on Sunday morning having taken the big crown. It's becoming a bit like the lifetime achievement award at the Brits, so next year the Gold Roof is going to Status Quo.

And now an appeal to Brisca F2.
Wherever the next world final is going to be, it has to be as good as this one, in build up, in presentation and in memory. Think very carefully where you take the title next year, maybe its time to scrap the rota system and give it to the tracks that will make a show of it.

Congrats once again to Mark Simpson  (871) - the 2011 Brisca F2 Champion of the World

KLWF11 - Full Report to follow

OK blogger folks, I'm chuffing knackered - I'm off back to cornwall so the whole J-ho world report will be up later.

Congrats to Simmo.

KLWF11 - The Big Day is Here! How do you choose yours....

So its here. Christmas Day and Birthdays rolled into one. It's the mother fudging World Final baby!

Excited much? If I was female, I would need some Tena Lady by the end of the day!

By the end of today, Lady Luck will shine on the chosen one. But, what omens are there from fate itself, what signs show that its going in a particular direction. Let's have a look.....

BIRTHDAYS

Dave Luscombe (642) started this off at Skegness in 1987. An earlier world final (22nd August) meant Dave strolled away with his cake and the gold roof too. He shares his birthday with multi snooker world champion Steve Davis... so theres an omen too.

Barford celebrated its recent resurfacing with 1:1 scale cake

Bill Batten (167) celebrated his 104th Birthday at Barford in 2004. Taking your first title win in 22 years and on your birthday too, something was smiling on Bill that day.

Then in 2009, Buxton Raceway made a big play of making sure that Micky Brennan celebrated his 21st birthday in style. On the parade lap his peers were presented with the usual momento, Micky got a cake, and all his family were there. If the big man upstairs was watching, which he was as the field opened for the cheery northerner. That cake was the least of his worries.

NUMBERPLATES

This method of picking a winner has kind of become defunct now, with the advocacy of the ridicolous new numberplates. En route to the world final, wherever it would be - we would read the number plate so for instance if we saw for example E658HUL come towards us, ding, Dean Mason, its yours! However this game didn't often produce a winner unless it was GFD218Y that we spotted. It did work for Chris Burgyone at Cowdenbeath, as we followed the car from near Bristol to Thelwall Viaduct!

SWEET METHOD

This is a new method for 2011. Fruitella have brought a new range of real fruit based sweets. One of the packs have numbers, and it answered the burning question, as a 2, a 1 and an 8 came out. Long before a 7 did. In fact it was at the very back of the pack, perhaps an omen. Or perhaps there weren't many 7's in the pack. Odds of a 7 coming out first is 1 and 10, so the odds are stacked in Moodie's favour, considering that odds of a 2 a 1 and an 8 is 1 in 30.
I'll try it again before the meeting and see!

SWEEPSTAKE

I remember Honest Rob Farrell, running a sweep at Swindon, where all the non qualifying Westcountry folk gathered to watch the World. I remember drawing John Mickel (4) and our mechanic drew Dave Luscombe (642). It added a bit of extra spice to the watching, especially as he set to win £30 for a £1 stake.

OMENS

Not that little brat called Damien. 

Missus got a phonecall from someone called Jack at 9:21.....

The peak number of hits on the website on Thursday was 324....

I woke up this morning for a pee at 4:01

Clutching at straws but....whoever you pick as your choice, and however you do it, fate and destiny will gather to conspire for it, or against it. I bet Brennan and Fortune didn't think they would be waking the following day as World Champion, they were in the right place in the right time and got the break.

If you think all this method is a bit random - the race is. Those who expect to win, should expect to be disappointed. It takes skill to get in, but a fair amount of luck to win.

So enough of the build up - it's time for those engines to be started, gentlemen.

Good luck.

KLWF11 - 1 day to go - The Pundits Predict

Gather round folks, for a super stocker saturday, brought to you from the Norfolk Arena. Think of me as a kinda metaphorical Jeff Stelling, in amongst a sea of Kamaras, Mersons and Le Tissiers. It's time for the pundits, to predict the outcome of the big one.

First up, we have former Brisca F2 driver and current Brisca F1 "dabbler", Timmy Farrell (467). Tim was no stranger to the F2 world, having finished second twice, and finished 3rd the last time it was on shale. However, the fence he's sat on, might need a coat of Cuprinol!

 "It's wide open mate, no clear favourite. Looks good on paper so much so that I'm draggin the one up to Lynn next week. First 5 rows in with a chance, just not sure who. I'm not sure what Moodie will do on Speak - if anything. Can't see Burgy bein easy to knock off. Andrew Palmer looks dangerous, so too Bradderz"

Next from north of the Border, reknowned moderator on the uber busy Ftooz website, is Stevie Kirk, aka "The Kirker"

"I think Moodie will try and get Speaky, whether he succeeds or fails I think it will cost Moodie his chance. I don't think Speaky has the speed on a wet shale track to challenge at the start, by the time the track comes to him it will be too late. I don't think Burgoyne is experienced enough on shale to win. So on that note, I think it will be Palmer's night - 606 for gold"

The current voice of Formula 2 Racing with Incarace, and now TV (he commentates on Premier Sports MASCAR and F1, and the Dave reruns of "Gears and Tears") Dave Goddard gives us his thoughts on the title, albeit he might need that fence stain after you've finished with it Tim

"*remains on fence* -Will Moodie do Speak? They won't get beyond the first turn. Schut will do Palmer. Burgoyne will drop back and Thackra will win it"

Commentator of the Swindon World Final in 1998, and bloke who is now back in love with the sport, after a long lay off . The original "seat of the pants" announcer, Rob Hughes, is getting excited.

"I hope that my writing can't keep up with my imagaination or expectation. Either all out chaos and a suprise winner or 218 will out fox 7 or vice versa"

So that leaves me. Splinter removal surgery has been booked in for Sunday, as I too believe its more wide open than Katie Price's crotch at a swanky footballers do. If the Speak/Moodie feud is settled, it won't be the end of it. One will be still out for revenge for the other, so I expect the winner to come from Thackra, Burgyone, Bradbury, Andy Palmer and as two leftfield choices, Danny Van Wamelen and Barry Goldin.

So, we've had our choices - just 25 laps to see if any of us are right.

Let's hope its a cracker, eh!

Anyways must go, we got fences to paint!

KLWF11 - 2 days to go... Fortune favours the Gold.

With John Fortune (964) kind of annnouncing that last season was to be his last before retiring to concentrate on his son Marc's coming of age, many people thought that he was just going to fizzle out, in the manner fitting of the wily veteran of the Racewall.

Until this happened.



John Fortune (964) became Champion of the World, in one of the greatest races that has ever been. He kept his head whilst everyone around him were losing theirs. He became a member of an elite bunch of 30 people who have tasted golden success.

People have been rather harsh on John for not showing the gold roof off. Fact is, his racing career has been prolonged by winning the gold, and fair play to that. He has spent the majority of this season being the most responsible thing being a Dad, watching his son go from white to red.

Like he has mentioned in the pre race build up - he's just enjoying the experience, and will let it all happen and enjoy his last moment as world champion.

I think personally, it is a perfect way to end a long career, few can say that they have held it.

Well done John, have a fruitful retirement, unless that is, you win it again!

KLWF11 - 3 Days to Go - The Speak-erness years

 

The 1990's.

Girl Power. Loud Bermuda Shorts. Pop Tarts and Gladiators. All warnings from history that the 90's should never be repeated again.

But there was another horror to stalk our world finals for the entire decade. A racing behemoth that ruled over the sports biggest title.

It was a young lad from Tyldsley, who set upon his way to become the greatest.

Robert Speak.

1990 saw him play second fiddle to stop Alistair King who led from start to finish in the first pinto powered winner, very much a learning curve for his first ever world title tilt.

Bristol  in 1991 saw Silver turn into gold. Speakie took Bryn Thomas (900), Dave Luscombe (642) and Peter Gilbert (542) to task. A mere 19 years of age, this was the start of the era. Bryn came close, but was adjudged to have jumped by Gilbert who remonstrated. It had started, and Bryn decided to then form a tage team with his mates called the "Legion of Doom", with Speak one of the prize scalps as a result of it.

1992, Skegness was soggy, and mired in controversy. On paper it looked an absolute classic. Batten versus Speak. Then it pissed down. Then something erupted in the pits. It was Bill, who was moaning about some new rule directives, and left his car on the trailer in protest, on the grounds of being undriveable. Speak took this as an opportunity to show us what exactly he could do. Taking the outside line to pass in the wet on a busy track, and spending the last couple of laps holding his aerofoil side plate, proved that day he was different gravy. Some say it was one of the greatest drives.

Speak chose the dreaded number 1 for the following year. And that became his curse. Leading by country mile at his Bristol Semi Final, he clipped a park car which spun him round, which meant he finished 4th. Mounting "Thomas 2" the new version of his Forsthye built shale car, a car with the looks and handling prowess of a shopping trolley, proved to be his downfall, as he then got up to 3rd, and then failed to finish. Ian King (804) finally gained the gold, and it was back to 218 and Silver for Speak.

1994, and the tight and tricky Smeatharpe track, with local favourite Gilbert alongside, and with Colin Higman injured (as a result of an altrication with Gilbert at an earlier Newton Abbot). All eyes were on the start of the race. A sport of right hand down sent the 542 machine through the wires not once but twice, however with 5 to go, a last minute international entrant Les Palmer (IoM24). Palmer seemed insensed to take out, coming off the middle to sideswipe him. An immediate black flag was shown to the exiled Plymouthian. Once the celebratory donuts had been completed, Speak the enacted revenge on vacant Palmer car. Now whether it was right for either party, a lot of drivers dreamt of doing it, but these pair put these dreams into reality.

The dominance truly became the focus, as as Ringwood '95, in another Batten/Speak showdown, he showed us just how dominant he was. He left both Bill and Dutchman Toon Schut for dead at the Hampshire oval in one of the dullest World Finals in some time.

The World Final returned to Northampton for the first time in 15 years and the focus of attention was the returning Mike James (717) who started on pole alongside Speak. Speak got the jump on the Singing Cornishman til about halfway when he clipped a parked car, sending the hard charging Speak into a 360. Mick Sworder (152) was the Northampton specialist and the fastest man on the circuit, was catching James, but in his haste drove into the parked car of Daz Kitson, sending his wheel out. No damage for Speak and no chance to get back on terms for Jamesy. With Speak's car slowing, it became tantalisingly close for the Hewas Water steam enthusiast to hit Speak.

Scotland was again the venue, and the main challenger to the Speak Throne came from Tim Farrell (667) complete with t shirts and signwriting that it was time to crown a "champion". A champion we did! Sadly it wasn't the Plymouthian, who took a fine second, but the Manc Lion continued with the gold.

The radical Elite that startled the community was the car of choice for the 1998 running at Swindon. Not Speak's finest moment, as Dave Luscombe (642) took the running to him, and with a fair few yellow flags, including one that did for Luscombe, who missed a gear and was pounced upon by Mick Sworder. Then with 5 to go, the promotion, which was joint between GDC (Gerry Dommett (although he had passed away earlier in the year) and RDC (who were the current incumbents of the Swindon track) made the decision to water the track. This played into Bert Finnikin's (559) hands who came to the last bend almost nudged the back of the 218 car. Apoplectic with rage and convinced that the promotion had almost diddled him out of title, Speak refused to take part in the post race presentation, making a mockery of the sport's big day.

Buxton in 1999 was Speak with little interest the actual race was very very dull, he'd already started his F1 career. It was very much just another race, but it was the last time we saw the 218 machine win the gold roof.

At the time, I was getting bored of Speak's dominance. I look back now, and look at his recent form and that he entirely deserved his status in the Top 100 greatest racing drivers poll in the motoring press, beating the likes of Villeneuve, Coulthard and Nelson Piquet. When he went to ASCAR and various other motorsport, not only did he mingle with the stars of the UK racing scene, he won plaudits and friends in higher places, including current BTCC star Jason Plato, and the infamous "Stig" Ben Collins.

The moral of the story many have tried to surpass and pass Speak, but few, if any, have succeeded. Bradbury and Moodie are already aware of his prowess and have fallen foul to the 218 bumper.

Speak isn't even 40 yet. There could be potentially another 20 titles. I hope not, but one or two more wouldn't hurt!

For the generation who aren't aware of him, it would be good to see him win a world title. I started going to stock car in the Batten retirement period, and had never seen him with a gold roof. I was told he was good, but thought I had missed my chance.

Washed up banger driver, no. Bully boy - maybe. The best stock car driver to grace our formula. Definately.

KLWF11 - 4 Days to go... The Irish Sea-ds with an extra leg thrown in for good measure

So who's coming over to play from the Irish Sea...Traditionally the majority of international entries before the Dutch invasion came from those far away shores of the Isle of Man and Northern Ireland!

Having taken 2 gold roofs over the water in 1972 and by proxy in 2008, Northern Ireland's racers have gotten better over here with more than the occasional title winner.

Christopher KINCAID (NI312)

The Teen Sensation and former Ben Fund trophy winner is happy to race over here. Taken a real like to the tight Taunton oval, winning both those titles during the weekends there. Finds it easy to adapt to new tracks

Probably the strongest of the Irish contingent, however might struggle

Denver GRATTAN (NI317) 

One half of the Grattan racing team that adorns many a UK speedweekend with brother Gary, a consistent attender of the World Finals, with not a lot to show for it, other than damage and a smile.

Lacking the experience of shale of some of his fellow starters

Gary GRATTAN (NI917)

The other half of the Grattan racing team, he too is a regular over on the mainland, races a tidy car, and is one of the top names in the Irish scene.

A mid grid start will see him in the thick of the action

Ryan McCRORY (NI944)

Ryan has been a regular traveller to the mainland tracks, being seen at Taunton's weekend and impressing at the Skegness Speedweekend. Like many of his compatriots, his shale racing would have been limited to a brief dalliance with the Nutts Corner Shaleway.

Lack of experience should hinder progress



Manxmen have done well in the world series in years gone by and some almost have had an impact on the end result, just ask Rob Speak, when he met a sideswiping Les Palmer (IoM24) at Taunton on that fateful day in 1994!

Billy O'NEILL (IoM43)

This years only Manx entry (well unless you count Jon Palmer (24) of course) is Billy. He'll be hoping to do the best that he can.

Staying out of trouble and completing the distance will be his goal

KLWF11 - 5 days to go.... Passed by a Dutchie!

As we have had a look at the British competitors, our attention now is at the foriegn entrys, coming in at row 3, 6, 9, 12 and 18. 11 entries this year, so let's focus on mainland Europe. With the assistance of Dutch driver Ronald Claes (H277) (and wife Ursula too), we look at the Netherlands challengers

Danny van WAMELEN (H3) has been no stranger to racing over here this season. And he hasn't made the numbers up. Impressive displays on shale at King's Lynn and Mildenhall have probably brought his skills to our attention.

Could be a potential winner if he starts on row 3.

Toon SCHUT (H30)
During the 90's, Toon was one of the brightest stars in the Sport, including a 3rd place at Ringwood in 1995 and 4th at Crewe in 1993. He also won the British at King's Lynn in 1994, and the European in 2002.
One of the lowlands top drivers ever, he will be in the shake up if he's in the third row

39 Marten van der WAL

Concentrates solely on the dirt in his native Holland, he has been consistent taking a meeting final runner up spot at the most recent Blauwuis.
Might spring a few surprises, but might be too far back

45 Edwin PLOEG

Edwin seems to be one of the few shale only drivers on the continuent, keeping most of his racing to the dirt/shale of Emmen and Blauwuis, taking a win at the latter in April
Although consistent, he might fall back

47 Patrick TERSTEEG
Has been over to Arena this year for a spot of racing UK style. Has been consistent on the shale and dirt the majority of the season.
All dependent on where he starts, could be a surprise

Wim PEETERS (H124)
Son of the 2005 World Champion Willie (H24), he's proven his worth on both tarmac and shale this season. At Coventry, he was in the running for the final amongst some stars. More than capable.
Might be a bit soon for him to follow his dad, but certainly capable of it.

KLWF11 - 6 days to go - Preview outside

So lets have a look at the runners and riders, and have a bit of fun with it. Today we look at the runners that start on the outside row...

Pictures come courtesy of Martyn Robinson and George Melville

218 Rob SPEAK

The man they all fear. 8 times winner of this title, the form book says when Speaky starts on the front row, he wins the world. However, the biggest threat comes from the pretender to his throne behind. Having shown his displeasure at Moodie's tactics at the Hednesford meeting final, the feud comes into the final. His recent shale form shows that he is back to his best.

If he survives the first corner, he will be hard to beat

7 Gordon MOODIE

Whilst his tactics in the semis were applauded and derided in equal measure, he starts the world final as kingmaker. Although he would have probably have preferred to be on the inside, he could still have an impact. Desperately wants to get the gold back, and don't forget - he won the last shale final.

Whilst he is more than capable of winning this, his ongoing feud with Speak might be his downfall this time.

886 Chris BRADBURY

At the start of the season, Bradderz was unstoppable. Many predicted he would be starting the final as favourite. However a lack of interest and competitiveness has seen him take more of a back seat. On shale he is really competitive, as proved by the World of Shale points.

Should chaos reign in front, it will be his for the taking.

100 George MCMILLAN Jnr

Having recently confessed that this might be one of his favourite tracks, the plucky Scot takes to the unfamilar shale with a "see what happens" attitude.

Should those in front fall, he will have a shout!

732 Daz KITSON

Winner of the world title last time it was at Lynn, the former double world champion has found himself back in contention for the title. A winner of the world title on both surfaces, only Speak has managed that feat

Like Speak, reputation might see him get near the front.

921 Jack ALDRIDGE

This years hot shot graduate from minis has set the Brisca world alight. Simply loves to race, his tarmac form better than his shale, but certainly learning quickly on the loose stuff. He certainly has the skills to be a World Champion.

Might be a bit too soon for Jack, his time will come.

854 Robbie DAWSON

One of the most consistent competitors north of the border, his shale form is not much home to write home about. His laps leading the 2009 world final stood him in good stead.

I expect him to struggle, but he might surprise

968 Mickey BRENNAN

The 2009 Champion wrote the book on how to be World Champion, he returns to shale on which he made his name. Races constantly with a smile on his face. Not been a classic season, but been truly dominant at Buxton and Barford.

A bit far back this time to make an impact but will finish in the top 5.

702 Allen COOPER

Another driver who knows the fast way around the shale, last year proved that he could do well on the tarmac by starting on the front row. Along with Andrew Palmer (606) he would have preferred to been further up.

He will be in the shake up come the end, podium realistically, outside chance for the win.

315 Justin FISHER

Like his travelling partner Hooper, Justin has had a reasonable season of sorts, winning more away from home, certainly racking up the travel miles (as well as the air miles). A lack of a westcountry shale track will be his disadvantage.

 An unfamiliar surface, but has got the ability to get to the front.

KLWF11 - 7 days to go - Preview - inside

So lets have a look at the runners and riders, and have a bit of fun with it. Today we look at the runners that start on the inside row...

Pictures come courtesy of Martyn Robinson.

Chris BURGOYNE (647)
Chris has won this title before and this marks his best chance to win since he took gold at Cowdenbeath in 2002. Shale form is limited to the odd knockabout once in a while - looked good at the last Kings Lynn. In with a shout if others fall out - but a very dogged and determined driver - could he double up his gold?

James THACKRA (324)

Former British and European champion, James has been always there and there abouts. Not afraid of shale, just chooses not too nowadays.

Has led a world final, only to be done the very next corner!

The darkest of dark horses, could he sneak a win here?

Andrew PALMER (606)

The man on shale this season, and for many seasons previous. This is his first real chance to grab gold. Has mixed with all the main title contenders and beat them all.

If he comes through the first corner carnage, he is a real contender

823 Sam WAGNER

Mr Consistent in Briscaland, anytime, anyplace, anywhere, he's always

in the shake up in the results. Good on shale, good on tar, hence his position.

Could be in with a shout, few would begrudge!

154 Steve GREEN Jnr

Bit of an unknown quantity, as mostly a big track tarmac specialist. Shale form is unknown.

If it was Skeg again, no problem, however will probably go backwards

700 Adam RUBERY
Another driver who would have preferred a tarmac world final. A real Hednesford specialist, this knowledge saw him progress. Shale form is unknown, but has worn gold before - albeit in Rebels.
Unlikely to make much progress, might be a casualty

 676 Neil HOOPER

 The south west's current number one, in what is currently a bit of a doldrum period for the pasty chompers on the national scene. He started on pole for the last shale world at Mildenhall, however didn't set the shale alight.

If there is chaos ahead, he will be benefitting from it.

24 Jon PALMER
Bad Boy Jon P spent the majority of the season banned for an altrication at the European last year, but came back testing the new stunning Motorworld car. It left him 2 qualifying rounds to get in, and that he did, just! A solid drive in the semi saw him get in.

Might be in the shake up or in a pile up.

169 Richard STOTT

Richard has had a whirlwind start to his F2 career, being dominant on the large tracks. Got into the semi final and then won the meeting final which means that this semi starts on the inside. Don't think he's been on shale yet - but if his past form is anything to go by, it probably wouldn't faze him. 

There for the ride, see how he goes.

721 Graham KELLY

Brisca's most northerly driver now restricts the majority of his driving to the far north of Scotland, specialising on his home track on Crimond. One time darling of the Scottish fans, he prefers to just drive for fun without pressure. Has played on the shale in the past.

Has seen it all, experience will play a part, should finish

KLWF11- 8 Days to Go - Chit chat with GeoMac!

As we enter the major countdown with 8 days to go, Ryan Walker talks to one of the great Scottish hopes - George McMillan Jnr (100)

George in the Middle- courtesy of George Melville http://www.big-geo.com/

NAME - George McMillan

HOMETOWN- Glasgow
AGE- 25
F2 DEBUT- Cowdenbeath World Qualifier, 3rd May 2003.
NUMBER- 100
PREVIOUS FORMULAE RACED- Ministox
CURRENT F2- Polleysport.
HIGHEST GRADE ACHEIVED- Superstar
ACHEIVEMENTS TO DATE- Eh... Not much, Won the Chapman Trophy last year, that's about all the trophy races I've won. Finished 2nd in plenty of Scottish championships and track championships!
NICKNAMES- none really.
FAVOURITE TRACK- Cowdenbeath is my favourite track to drive, but like everyone else, I hate the way it's being run these days, so Skegness, and more recently, Hednesford and Kings Lynn!
TRACKS RACED- Cowdenbeath, Knockhill, Crimond, Barford, Belle Vue, Buxton, Birmingham, Hednesford, Northampton, Skegness, Kings Lynn, Bristol, Taunton, Nutts Corner, Ballymena.

RW: Thanks for taking the time to do the interview for the Stoxblog. So how did it all begin for you?GM: I've been going racing forever! Suppose it would have started at Newtongrange for me, going with my dad who was racing at the time. My family has been involved for a lot longer than tho. My grandad had a successful career in the 60's and early 70's. My dad started racing in 1972 when he was 16. I always wanted to race for as long as I can remember, so ma dad built me a ministock and I started when I was 12.

RW: You come from a racing dynasty, was there ever a point, nah I'm not gonna follow my dad?
GM: Never. I always wanted to race, and I always wanted to race F2's.

RW: What made you follow your dad?
GM: Just being so involved in my dad racing when I was so young. Watching him be so successful aswell. He won a lot when I was growing up, the British championship being a highlight when I was just 7. I just couldn't wait to do it myself.

RW: So how was your first meeting and where did you make your debut and any memories of how it went?GM: My first stock car meeting was 2nd of May 1998 in the mini. I was slow! lol. First F2 meeting was the WCQR meeting at Cowdy in 2003. I had only bald tyres and it rained just before the meeting! I just took it easy and tried to get a feel for it. I wasn't as slow as my first mini race! lol. It was a speedweekend at Cowdy and we raced both days. We lost Raymond Gunn (ed. Saloon driver 228) on the Sunday. Not the kind of memory you want to have from your first meeting, but sadly it's the one thing I remember about it more than anything else.

RW: You start a way back on an unfamiliar surface, what's your race plan going to be?
GM: Well we're not that far back, on row 5. There's 28 cars starting behind me! We are out of our comfort zone a bit on the shale, but we raced Kings Lynn last Saturday (Aug 27th) and although I didn't get great results as I was just taking it easy and trying to get the feel of it, we found out on our way home that I had been fastest in my heat and in the grand national, and I had set the 2nd fastest time if the meeting, so I feel alot better about our chances now. Biggest problem will be the first lap. We'll be very lucky if we get through in one piece, but if I do, I know I have a decent chance. But again, traffic will be the biggest issue.

RW: How do you deal with racing with Gordon Moodie each week?
GM: You just do what you can. Everyone knows how fast he is, so the times you do beat him, you know it's an achievement. It just doesn't happen all that often! He's not always dominant round Cowdy though. Burgoyne gives him a run for his money most weeks. Then there's Kirkaldy, Dawson, Middler, Sime, they're all hard to beat when they're having a good night! And that's just some of the locals, we have some fast visitors now and then too.

RW: To the casual racing fan in Scotland seems to be taking a bit of a dive in terms of numbers. Why is this and what would you suggest to improve it?
GM: As I said above, nobody is happy with the lack of any organisation or common sense from the men in charge at GMP meetings these days. It's very hard to stay interested when the guys in charge make the wrong decision 90% of the time in my opinion. That together with the cost of racing these days, and the high risk of damage at Cowdenbeath is just too much for the average working man. Then again, they could just throw some shale over the track and we'd get 50 cars every week!

RW: You have won titles, is there anything else in the sport that you have to do?
GM: Well I haven't won any titles yet! I would love to win the Scottish. My grandad won the Scottish in 1967 at Cowdenbeath. It was Superstox then but there was no Brisca in Scotland so that was the only Scottish title then. My Dad won the F2 Scottish at Newtongrange in 82, and I would love to be a 3rd generation champion. Same goes for the Cowdenbeath track points too. They both won that a couple of times each so that would be great aswell. I've finished 2nd in both those titles for the last 2 years running so I'm hoping for 3rd time lucky.

RW: Do you have any thank yous?
GM: Yes, first to my dad and grandad as they spend so much time preparing the car every week. And my sponsors- Polleysport, NB Autos, Causewayside Garage, Sibbald Ltd, and everyone else who's helped over the years.

Showing the way around one of his new favourite tracks

George McMillan was talking to the Stoxblog's Ryan Walker