Oppsssss

Well it wasn't the result we wanted.....

 

The event started ok, with a bit of a rusty run on stage one on this stage we ended up 3rd? in class and 24th overall. However during this stage, there was a very rough section of sea-wall, we were told by the organisers that the roads were a lot smoother than the past. However the reality by the time we got there was bit different. The car got a bit out of 'phase' on the bumps, and ended up landing the whole weight of the car on the drivers side front wheel. The force of this, pushed the front strut up and ripped its mounting frame away from the main chassis rail.

 

We didn't get chance to check the car over before the second stage so went into the second stage with a bent car.....

 

I could feel something wasn't quite right, but thinking it was a top mount gone, i pushed on hard, but with a small amount in reserve. On this stage we took the class win by 8 seconds from our nearest class rival, on this stage we were 18th overall. At this point we were lying second in class by just two seconds

 

However at the end of the stage i checked over the car and noticed the damage. It was at this stage it was obvious retirement was the only option. We limped the car back to service and the cars only second retirement on an event in four years of rallying.

 

We then marshalled / spectated on the rest of the event, and then luckily limped the car home slowly. Lucky as we are still one of the few SE crews not trailering to events.

 

The initial signs are that the car may be repairable, a post-mortem or diagnosis of the damage will be done this week to review the damage and work out whether to repair the car or re-shell it. Lots of time / work and money being spent lie ahead..... any willing sponsors out there !