We had forty-three drivers test their skill at the Pitt Meadows Driving Centre. Because of the uncertain weather, I persuaded Don Williams to attend, and we had gorgeous sunshine all day. The stars of the show were dedicated club members who volunteered their day to making the event run. Jim Waugh handled registration; Lew Berry, Rosalie Sinden, Sue Williams, and Gillian Heyes handled timing; Stewart Heyes was our starter and Don Williams coordinated vehicle entry to the facility; and naturally Dan Ward was there to record the event on video. Of course our other members who competed also pitched in to make the event a success, and these included Nigel Wheway (who also assisted myself and Stewart Heyes set up the course on the previous evening), Paul McAlduff , Terry McAlduff, Krista McAlduff, Ken Butcher, Geoffrey Chang, Blair Degenstein, Marj Bowen and David Mitten.
With our new timing equipment we were able to space out the start and finish box safely away from the timing people, and since we could start one car before the car on course finished, the turn around on runs was improved immensely. Thus each driver was able to make seven runs, and most drivers improved their times steadily with the fastest run typically being the last run of the day.
Fastest time of the day was set by Corvette driver Jim Sandwith from Victoria in his propane powered C4 with super sticky slicks. But Paul McAlduff was close behind with his C5 Z06. Paul was also kind enough to have his company Tireland provide some prizes for the participants and volunteers.
There was a great selection of cars, but the GM brand was in the majority. In addition to Corvettes (including C2, C4, C5, C6), there were two CTS-V Cadillac’s (former member Jack Baryluk driving one), six Fieros, and a Camaro. We also had representation from Porsche, BMW, and a variety of Japanese cars.
Everyone left at the end of the day with a smile on their face, and I have already received a number of emails from participants thanking the Corvette Club and our volunteers for making the day possible. For all of you Corvette owners that missed this event, I invite you to try the Autocross next year and experience the joy and performance of which your Corvette is capable.
by Vic
