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Updated 29/04/08
From the NHRPA
With Mallory on the horizon again, please remember: No windscreens of any type (safety glass, laminated, perspex, or lexan) are permitted.
Updated 24/04/08
Z4 breaks cover
Exclusive first photos of the all-new Autocross Z4 which arrived at the workshops of Timms Autoteille in Germany at the weekend.
Volker Timm told us “We hope you like the car as much as we do - we can hardly wait to see it on the track. As you can see, there is still some “little” work to do”.
  
  
Updated 18/03/08
Testing times!
Central Hot Rods, Hednesford, March 16th
Martin Kingston reports: Several National Hot Rods took the opportunity of the Central Hot Rod meeting at Hednesford Hills on 16 March to carry out testing on their cars. Others were there just to have some fun!
Steve Thompson was present in his new Tigra to do some dry weather testing, he was running on Hoosiers although only managed one heat before becoming a casualty with the wall early in the second heat. Chris Haird was out again in the John vd Bosch 206cc to evaluate the new Emmings VW engine in the dry; he too was running on Hoosiers. Russ Wilcox was also present, his aim to further improve his ex-Ralph Sanders 206 and running on an old set of Yokohama’s found buried in the back of his garage!
Other present included young newcomer Luke Armiger. Keen to get some more laps under his belt in 206cc, he had enjoyed his first meeting at Birmingham and had been surprised at the speed of the cars. Stu Carter was obviously meaning business as he was running on Avons. Welshman Mike Oliver had come and Ronnie McKenzie made the long trip down from Scotland only to have it all end in tears after hitting the wall hard in the second heat.
Peter Blood’s Corrado was there too for son Jack to race. After his performances at Birmingham, Peter was now a lot more optimistic about the car’s potential and performance. Of the local cars, there was an interesting mix - ranging from a Mk1 Escort through 205’s, 206’s, Clio’s, a Nova and a Fiesta.
With the Nationals starting the racing at the back it was the mk 1 Escort of Geoff Dixon that took up the early running, until Ivan Grayson took over in his rapid 205. Carter had got of to a demon start and it was not long before he caught Grayson and blasted round him to take the lead and the flag.
Heat 2 and for some reason no warm up laps were run, as the second half of the pack which included the Nationals entered the first turn on cold tyres. Blood ran into the back of Martin Dean while Haird and Thompson ran into the wall. A disgruntled Thompson was out and this was last of his racing for the day. It did not take too many more laps for Armiger to become the next casualty, he just clipped the wall with his rear coming out of turn four and ended up across the track. Again the race got going, but again another National casualty, this time is was McKenzie who hit the turn wall hard on turn 3-4, doing a good job of bending his steering and the end of his racing for the day. While all this had been going on, Grayson had again made his way to the front, Carter had been chasing hard but could not quite catch him at the chequers.
The final was a less bruising affair, Grayson again was soon into the lead, however Carter was not going to get an easy ride this time as a long battle between him and Oliver developed. At the front, Grayson ran out the winner, followed by a closing Mark Edwards with Ross Harrison third. Oliver held off Carter’s attentions to finish ahead of him in fourth. Martin Kingston. See Martin’s photos in the GALLERY
Heat 1: 85. 136, 120, 170, 128, 57, 45, 115, 187, 92
Heat 2: 136. 85, 45, 120, 92, 219, 115, 57, 3, 128
Final: 136, 45, 120, 57, 85, 219, 115, 125, 800, 92, 519
Updated 15/03/08
New Aldershot development progress
  
 
Graham Brown reports: The development of the new Aldershot stadium continues apace, as these photos taken on Wednesday 12th March show. Clockwise, from top left, we see a small overview of one side of the track, promoter Deane Wood surveying the construction work, construction of the far turn, new race control, and the new pit gate. It is expected that an open Hot Rod event will be run at Aldershot later this year, to test its suitability for the National class.
Photos courtesy of GB.
Updated 14/03/08
Tipperary date change, and Hoosier Tyre service
1: The race meeting and National Hot Rod world series round scheduled for Monday 5th May at Tipperary Motor Speedway has been put back a week and will now be run on Sunday 11th May. There will be no oval racing at Tipperary on Monday May 5th.
2: The Hoosier Tyre race support and service vehicles will NOT be at Northampton on Good Friday March 21, nor at Skegness on April 6. They will be at Ipswich on Easter Monday, and at the Hednesford round on April 13, as usual.
Updated 04/01/08
National Hot Rod Winternationals
Ballymena - 01/01/08
Darren Black reports: British Champion Stewart Doak continued his rich vein of form when he scooped the win in the National Hot Rod Winternationals at Ballymena Raceway on New Year’s Day.
There was a disappointing entry of just seven cars for this one, with 4 locals being joined by Tom Casey and lady racer Sylvia Tobin from the Republic, and by Wilson Hamilton who returned to his old stomping ground on his usual festive home-visit from his Worcestershire base. With several local cars on their way to South Africa, and several more involved in Mark McKinstry’s American wedding, a big home entry was never anticipated, but it would have been nice to have seen a few more on track.
Casey soon settled into the lead of heat one from pole position, with Doak dropping in behind, and this duo soon pulled clear of the rest on what was at best a “greasy” track, although the temperature was unseasonally high. Gary Woolsey soon found a way past Hamilton to give chase to the leaders, with Jason Winning almost following him through. Hamilton soon spun it all away on turn 4, and later complained of oil getting onto his tyres from an under-bonnet leak. Doak continued to pressure Casey all the way to the flag, and they were soon joined by Woolsey too, but Tom held on for the win with Doak second from Woolsey, Winning and welcome returnee Stevie Williams.
Woolsey gathered himself up quite a lead on lap one of the reverse grid heat two from the outside front row, as the rest got held behind pole man Williams. Winning was the first to break clear, and looked quite comfortable in this one as Casey retired with offside-front suspension damage, possibly inflicted by the sleeping policemen marking the inside of the turns. Woolsey was well clear at the end, with Doak netting second after eventually demoting Winning to third. Hamilton was fourth, ahead of the only other finisher, Tobin.
A toss of the coin gave Doak what turned out to be a decisive pole position ahead of Woolsey, and that’s the order they set off into the Winternational final. As Hamilton was slow away, Casey wasted no time in relegating Winning to start the chase after the pair of Tigras at the head of the field. Doak and Woolsey were giving a fine example of top quality Hot Rod racing on a slippery track, as they circulated with never more than a hair’s breadth between them for the duration of the race. Casey did reel them in towards the end, but had to settle for third as Doak ran out the winner from Woolsey, with Winning, Hamilton and Tobin completing the result. Darren Black
Updated 01/01/08
National Hot Rod South Africa Internationals
The South African World Cup for Hot Rods featuring a whole host of English, Irish and Northern Irish racers taking on the local drivers takes place throughout January.
nationalhotrod.com, with help from Florrie Butler and Mac McCormack, will be following this race series closely, and carrying all the latest news and results from South Africa.
More details soon, in the meantime you can download the official poster by clicking the thumbnail version on the left. Download is in jpg. format.
Updated 03/12/07
Steward's second Best.
Best in Britain, Wimbledon 25/11
Graham Brown reports: Andy Steward picked up his second Best in Britain title at Wimbledon, qualifying on the front row and then driving a tidy final to fend off race-long pressure from Dicky Burtenshaw.
Graham Luscombe had pole for the opening heat and took an immediate lead at the off. Given the west countryman's pace at the recent world qualifier at the track, there seemed every chance he might be able to stay there, even when the handy looking Burtenshaw and Plough Lane expert Mick Pagden turned up in his mirrors.
Jay Austin was forced out when some impact (unseen by the writer) put his rear bodywork onto his tyres, while Carl Boardley was making strides in the right direction, passing Ronnie McKenzie down the inside of the pit bend and then Tony Goodsir along the back stretch.
Burtenshaw and Pagden eventually found a way past Luscombe in tandem around mid-distance, Graham having to give best to the fast finishing Boardley as well by the end.
Pagden piled pressure on the leader in the closing laps but couldn't quite find the opening to prevent the Outlaw man taking first blood.
Heat two was also going to provide a pole winner, this time in the shape of Stuart Carter. First though, he had to survive a caution period, thrown when some time local hero Salvo Falcone clobbered the back straight fencing. The yellows were very slow in coming out for this incident, and quite how Boardley - already fully committed to the outside line exiting turn two - avoided a massive T-bone on the stricken Colt, I'll never know.
Carter made a good job of the restart, keeping himself a just comfortable gap over Steward and Colin Gomm for the remaining distance.
Boardley's fifth spot in that second heat was enough to get him pole on aggregate. However, with arch rival Steward alongside, and the track having been dampened by a brief shower to make the conditions exactly to Andy's liking, this was no foregone conclusion. This looked like being a very interesting showdown indeed, and the unworthy thought crossed my mind that it was quite possibly one which those starting immediately behind might do well to stay out of in fact! But in the end, no such knock-down-drag-out dice ever transpired.
'Doughnut' got all the traction anybody could want at the green to snatch the lead, Boardley briefly slotting in behind. Carl probably figured that if he was ever going to get past, there was only one way, and he was soon trying it up the outside. Despite being on four wets, he couldn't find the grip he needed however, and got railroaded back to fifth as Burtenshaw, Pagden and Gomm all went through.
Boardley couldn't seem to keep up the pace after that and fell steadily back, his tyre choice telling against him as the track was nowhere near being really wet at any stage.
But Andy wasn't going to get much respite despite Carl fading from the picture, as the others were fighting tooth and nail to get at or past the leader. Pagden in particular tried very hard indeed around the outside to make some impression, but was finding Burtenshaw a tough enough nut to crack, never mind Doughnut. And Steward never put a foot wrong, and was still deservedly in front at flag fall, with the hard trying Burtenshaw second.
Gomm was third over the line, but copped a somewhat harsh two place penalty for contact on Burtenshaw, handing the place to Pagden instead. I say a bit harsh, because Dicky seemed quite capable of chucking his car into the corners sideways with or without Colin's help, in his superb efforts to catch Steward napping and dive up his inside.
Putting that aside, this was still a darn good race which proved that (a) Andy Steward is still top kiddie when track conditions are anything less than perfect, (b) Mick Pagden shouldn't be too hasty in his decision to quit the formula just when he's really finding his feet, and (c) that it's high time Dicky Burtenshaw made good on his threat of a couple of years ago to go National. Your licence application awaits sir…. Graham Brown
Results
Heat one: 100,197,41,742,55,280,198,278,421,277
Heat two: 85,198,278,280,41,427,113,421,197,100
Final: 198,100,197,427,278(-2),85,277,280,421,113,742
Key to Outlaw numbers: 100 Dicky Burtenshaw, 280 Ross Ayling, 421 Phil Young, 113 Richard Simmons.
Updated 05/11/07
MBE engine management boxes
- have to be ordered through Incarace, 0121 357 7328. To have boxes repaired, they have to be sent to MBE Systems, The Elliott Centre, Elliott Road, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, GL7 1YS. Tel. 01285 883030.
Updated 31/10/07
Tipperary date change
The World Series round (and the entire race meeting) scheduled for November 18 has been put back a week to November 25. No other fixtures are affected.
Updated 22/10/07
From the NHRPA:
There is a driver’s meeting scheduled to take place on Sunday (28th October) at Wimbledon to discuss tyres. The meeting (which is in a room at the stadium) starts at 2.30 pm. If you have a truck or bus transporter, you will be allowed to park it in the car park. If you are towing with a van and trailer or similar, you may take it through the tunnel and park on the track. All drivers are invited whether racing that night or not.
Also: The NHRPA have been advised that racing overalls are being sold at Tipperary Raceway which are not flameproof. Drivers are reminded that they must wear fire-retardant clothing (such as Nomex or Proban) at all times when racing. See rule book NHR. 61 CLOTHING, part (a). Generally speaking, so-called kart suits are not fire-retardant.
Updated 21/10/07
Two former World Champions banned
Unsporting incidents at the European Championships in Ireland involving Malcolm Blackman and Colin White have caused the sport’s governing body, the NHRPA, to take disciplinary action against the two former National Hot Rod World Champions. Malcolm Blackman has been banned from racing until November 26th 2007, and Colin White until November 11th 2007.
Updated 06/09/07
From the NHRPA
Lydden: National Hot Rod drivers (not fans) are allowed to stay at the stadium on Friday night.
Saturday: Practice from 12.50
1st heat approx 14.15
2nd heat approx 15.45
Final approx 17.20
Gearing for Lydden: The information that we have suggests that a standard road gearbox from a Sierra or a Cortina with a 1.21:1 3rd gear with a 4.1:1 diff (or similar) should do the job. A Quaife “race” gearbox should also have this ratio
Rockingham: Camping is £20 for the weekend, (this is per unit, not per person). There is a limited amount of tent space available, and plenty of room for caravans/campers/coaches. There is no need to book in advance.
Windscreens: Are not allowed at either meeting.
Updated 27/07/07
From the NHRPA, dated 26/07/07
2008 Qualifying & World Final
The following changes have been made to the format for 2008 World Qualifying in England and Ireland, with immediate effect:
Qualifying Rounds: Drivers will be allowed to drop one round this season. At the end of your last round, your lowest score from one meeting will be deducted from your points total. If you have missed a round, this will be zero. If you have raced at all of the rounds, it will be the lowest points scored at one meeting.
Points Scoring: The points scoring system stays exactly as it is now - same points for the final as the heats. 20 points for 1st, 18 points for2nd, 16 points for 3rd, 14 points for 4th, 12 points for 5th, 10 points for 6th, 9 points for 7th, 8 points for 8th, 7 points for 9th, 6 points for 10th, 5 points for 11th, 4 points for 12th, 3 points for 13th, 2 points for 14th and 1 point for 15th place.
Grids: The grids for all heats and finals will be formed using your average scores, just as if you were graded, although you will not be required to have your roof painted red, white, blue, etc. As in the past, for your first round of the new season the grid will be based on your average scores from your last 3 meetings. Unlike a grading system, however, your positions will change at each meeting. When you have raced at 3 rounds, your average will simply continue throughout the year, until the start of the next season. You will be lined up with the lowest averages at the front of the grid and the highest averages at the back. The World and National Points champions will take up the grid positions that their average dictates. This is to say that the World Champion and National Points Champion will not automatically always start at the back. There will still be gaps left within the grid approximately every 6 to 8 cars. Any new driver, without an average, will be seeded into the grid by the Official Grader (Graham Brown). His decision is final.
World Final: The World Final grid will be as follows: The top 18 drivers from England, the top 6 drivers from N. Ireland, the top 6 drivers from S. Ireland and 2 or 3 invited Continental/non-European drivers. The overall winners of the National Points in N. Ireland and S. Ireland will now automatically join Group One on the grid. All other non-English drivers will be gridded where their lap times dictate. One further slight change to the line up: If any non-UK or non-Irish driver achieves a lap time which is faster, or the equal of, any car contained within Group One, that driver will be allowed to join Group One, making 7 cars in that group.
Tyre Allocation: With immediate effect, you may only use one new slick tyre per meeting for normal qualifying rounds and four new slick tyres for events such as the World Final and National Weekend. For wet meetings, you will be permitted only four new wet tyres for each meeting or event, whether it is a one or two day event.
We wish you good luck with your racing this season.
Roy Eaton, Philip Bond, Angie Rowe, Graham Brown, Paul Gerrard & Deane Wood
Updated 16/07/07
Best of British at Nuttscorner Oval
Darren Black reports: All roads lead to Co Antrim’s Nuttscorner Oval on Sunday July 22nd when oval racing’s elite formula, the National Hot Rods, contest the 2007 Murrays of Randalstown British Open Championship. A bumper field will be on hand from right across the British Isles to compete for the prestigious title.
Heading the visitors from England will be Chris Haird and Malcolm Blackman. Haird’s confidence is currently sky high after a superb runner-up spot in the World Championship earlier this month, and he has indeed previously won the Irish Grand Prix on this side of the Irish Sea at Tipperary in 2006. Former World and European Champion Blackman is no stranger to these shores, and took third place in the last staging of the race in 2005. Matt Simpson, recent winner of the Thunder 500 title and a front runner during the World Final is also making the trip, along with veteran racer Dick Hillard, Stu Carter and Jay Austin to name a few.
The Southern Ireland entry is led by 2002 European Champion Neville Stanley and his son Orey, and they will be joined by Des Cooney and Dublin duo Les Compelli and Joey Butler.
The local drivers will no doubt be up for the challenge around the tight confines of Nuttscorner Oval, and the charge for glory will be led by Crumlin’s John Christie, who claimed third spot in the recent World Finals. Gary Woolsey has twice held the British title since the turn of the millennium, in 2002 and 2003, and will be looking for a hat-trick this time around given the impressive performance of his new Ludlow Motorsport Tigra. Another man with a new Tigra at his disposal is Portadown’s Stewart Doak, and he put it to very good use at the World Final, qualifying in the front group and running with the leaders until clashing with another driver. Stewart was the runner up in the British in 2005, and will be looking to step up the podium this time around. Current European and National Champion Keith Martin of Dungannon is sure to be there or thereabouts this weekend, and he can claim a victory in this very race as far back as 1987. Add in the likes of Wayne Woolsey, Alan Connolly, the return of Ronnie McMillan, Tommy Maxwell, Ivan McMillan and Mark Heatrick and it promises to be an action-packed afternoon of top quality oval motorsport.
As well as the headline British Open Championship and its respective qualifying heats, there will also be a full support programme of 2.0 Hot Rods, Lightning Rods and Junior Productions. First race gets underway at 2.30pm. For more info visit www.nuttscorneroval.com
Updated 30/06/07
2007 World Final Press Day 29th June
Steve Robey reports: Eighteen cars from the English series arrived today with a further three drivers making the trip over from Ireland. Drivers in attendance were: 2 Ken Marriott, 3 Richard Spavins (First reserve), 6 John Holtby (Non qualifier), 25 Keith Woods (non qualifier but has now re-panelled the 306 as a 206), 31 Dick Hillard, 41 Carl Boardley, 61 Andy Holtby, 67 Dave Brooks, 95 Gavin Murray (Non qualifier), 115 Chris Haird, 170 Steve Thompson, 271 Neil Stimson, 291 Mike Thurley, 303 Matt Simpson (New Tigra), 305 James Jamieson (had both Tigras at the track, but JJ wasn't in attendance leaving Colin White to test both cars), 427 Jay Austin (Non qualifier), 734 Ralph Sanders, 911 Malcolm Blackman, 921 Des Cooney, 967 Neville Stanley and 970 Shane Murphy. Weather stayed dry but overcast for the first hour and then had heavy downpours during the second hour. PHOTOS
Added 18/06/07
Tom Casey Tyre Challenge, Tipperary 17/06/07
H1: 970 985 967 777 142 961 87
H2: 151 961 970 985 967 142 777 87
Final: 970 961 142 777 985 967 151 87
Added 18/06/07
Mallory Park 17/06/07
Graham Brown’s Full Report
Added 07/06/07
Ballymena Raceway Thirtieth Anniversary
Northern Ireland’s Ballymena Raceway is hosting a celebration of thirty continuous years of oval racing since the track was re-opened in 1977, on Friday 20th July 2007 at the Tullyglass Hotel. The evening will begin with former drivers from both the Stock Car and Hot Rod ranks being invited onto stage for a nostalgic look back at the old days, then it is hoped that some of the modern day stars will give us a chat about how the World final went and thoughts on the weekend racing ahead. Who knows the new World champion might even be there with a bit of luck!
Invitations have been extended to a number of well-known faces on both sides of the water and the initial reaction has been very positive. Definitely attending will be local stock car stars Ivor “the driver” Greenwood, Ian McKinight and Will McGaffin, plus Hot Rod heroes such as Norman Woolsey, Robin Sloan and Keith Martin. Other well known locals who raced in the production cars/stock rods, etc, such as Stevie Morrison, Noel Robinson, Jim Stewart, William McCullough and Roy McKane are also confirmed. Amongst those who have indicated they intend to be present, travel arrangements and other commitments permitting, are Barry Lee, Duffy Collard, the Burgoyne clan, Dick Hillard, Malcolm Blackman, Carl Boardley, Jeff Simpson, Chris Haird, Pete Stevens and the Grimer brothers. Fingers crossed that these, and as many more as possible, can make it.
The chat show will be followed by a light, buffet-style meal and then music will be provided for those that wish to dance the night away, while the rest set the racing world to rights at the bar!
For any race teams or fans making the trip over from the mainland or up from the South of Ireland for the race meetings it certainly will be a great way to start your weekend. Ballymena Raceway can also provide contact details for b&b/guesthouse accommodation in the Ballymena area if required.
The nostalgic theme will continue at the actual race meeting on the Saturday, with a display of old racing cars, parade of former drivers, etc and it is hoped to get a few of them back behind the wheel once again. There is also a distinct possibility that the Saturday meeting (National Hot Rod Irish Open) will now start at a different time, perhaps as early as 3pm because of the extra activities planned.
Everyone is welcome, although tickets must be ordered in advance. Arrangements can be made to have tickets available for collection at the Long Track meeting and World Final Spedeweekend for those on the mainland.
For more information: 0772 5996705
or email bmrovalracing@yahoo.co.uk
Story with thanks to Colin Adair.
Added 03/04/07
Raceceiver news
Drivers are reminded of the following instructions from the NHRPA: "You will be issued with your RACEceiver when you purchase your 2007 NHRPA licence and be informed in advance when your racing area (England, N. Ireland or ROI) is licenced for transmission and fully operational. From this point in time, you will not be allowed on track without a RACEceiver fitted and working with charged batteries. Please do not turn up at any track and expect to race without both a current licence and RACEceiver - you won't. Provisional Licence holders will have a RACEceiver 'on loan' for each meeting until their licence is upgraded." Roy Eaton.
nationalhotrod.com has the following advice for all racers: the battery supplied is not a long-life one, and drivers should not expect to get more than one race meeting before it expires. We recommend that you purchase rechargeable batteries of the correct size and keep them charged in your race transporter. More than one/a recharging facility, will be vital for two-day meetings, or one-day meetings that run longer than expected. The responsibility for bringing and maintaining an operating Raceceiver lies solely with the driver, so better safe than sorry.
Scroll down for more on Raceceivers.
Added 17/03/07
SOUTH AFRICAN 2007 CHAMPIONSHIPS ROUND 1
Hamish Marshall reports: The first leg of the 2007 South African National Hot Rod Championship was held at the industrial Portside Town of Richards Bay on the east coast of South Africa.
A twenty-four car entry for an event spread over two days suggested plenty of upsets - starting with qualifying on Friday evening. Rudy Myburgh went out first to record a time of 13.57 seconds, some way off the lap record of 13.46. Seef Fourie Jr. then went out and decimated the lap record, recording a time of 13.23 secs. Most drivers failed to make an impression and it was left to local driver Neville Loosemore to offer any resistance setting a time of 13.30 secs and taking second on the grid. Since the qualifying determines the starting positions for the last race, only the heats relied on a draw-and-reverse system for the starting positions.
Rudy Myburgh had drawn pole for the first heat and dutifully took the lead from the flag with the rest of the field on line astern. Naturally after only two laps the inevitable incident occurred with Amos Cockerham suffering brake failure and colliding with the hapless Seef Fourie Jr. ahead of him. Fourie went off for repairs only to rejoin and suffer a puncture. Tonight was not his night. At this point Rudy Myburgh retired with an expired engine. Jacques Roos inherited a lead which he never relinquished, from newcomer Ian van Niekerk. Rudy Pretorius came third ahead of Neville Loosemore – his charge from a lowly starting position to fourth was a highlight of the race.
The second heat saw Andre Johnson lead from pole to win the race. Jody Viana was thrilled at coming second despite the close attention of Neville Loosemore, who finished third, and Matty Maartens who lost a place to Ian van Niekerk in the closing laps. Seef Fourie was once again sidelined this after Amos Cockerham - Sr. this time - had collided with Rudy Pretorius, the ensuing collision damaging Fourie’s suspension.
The final heat saw Seef Fourie lead off pole, pursued by Neville Loosemore. The pair lapped the entire field up to third placed Matty Maartens – who was to be excluded for a collision with Rudy Pretorius who thus inherited this position. Neville Loosemore set about his defense of the South African title in the most perfect of circumstances and enjoys a healthy lead in the Championship.
Positions after the 1st leg:
NEVILLE LOOSEMORE 87
IAN VAN NIEKERK 82
JOEDY VIANA 81
AMOS COCKERHAM SNR 79
ANDRE JOHNSON 59
SEEF FOURIE 58
RUDI PRETORIUS 58
AMOS COCKERHAM JNR 49
JACQUES ROOS 30
PHOTO CAPTIONS
SA1 – FIRST BLOOD WENT TO NEVILLE LOOSEMORE IN THE 2007 SOUTH AFRICAN NATIONAL HOTROD CHAMPIONSHIP.
G212 – SEEF FOURIE JNR TOK HIS SECOND SUCCESSIVE NATIONAL POLE AS HE BROKE YET ANOTHER LAP RECORD IN RICHARDS BAY OVER THE WEEKEND.
Added 26/02/07
North versus South postponed
"Tipperary Motor Speedway regrets that the North versus South National Hot Rod Challenge match will not now take place this Sunday 4th March as planned.
"Unfortunately it seems the date was not the best for the visiting team, and the Raceway would be happy to run the event at a future date.
"As National Hot Rod drivers often complain of not enough track time for setting up their cars, Tipperary Motor Speedway will now do the following on Sunday 4th March:
"For National Hot Rods there will be normal pre-meeting practice, plus two/three (time dependent) 25-lap practice sessions during the afternoon, followed by a 25-lap race, for fun, to round off the day. Other classes programmed to race Sunday, will race as scheduled.
"All National Hot Rods from all regions are invited to make use of this event.
"Tipperary Motor Speedway regrets any inconvenience caused by this fixture amendment".
Added 19/02/07
To all National Hot Rod drivers
BOC Industrial are proud to support the Oval Racing Council and its drivers (UK and Ireland)
Whether you are making adjustments to gain valuable seconds on the track, or repairing your car after an unfortunate accident, BOC Industrial have the supplies you need.
To demonstrate their commitment to the racing community, they would like to extend their support to all ORCi members by offering substantial discounts.*
So how can you make the most of this special offer?
Call one of their equipment specialists now on 0161 930 6014. Alternatively, visit one of their 70 trade outlets across the UK and quote ORC07 or show your NHRPA licence. You can find your nearest outlet online at www.bocindustrial.co.uk by clicking on 'where to find us'.
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Discount*
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Includes
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Industrial Gas
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price on application
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Oxygen, DA, Argoshield, Alushield and N².
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Welding Machines
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price on application
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Full range including BOC MIG, Invertor and Wire feeder.
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Gas Equipment
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30%
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Welding & Cutting Kits, Regulators & Flowmeters, Nozzles & Tips, Hoses, Torches, Shanks, Attachments & Mixers
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Filler Materials
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15%
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Electrodes, MIG Wire, TIG Wire, TIG Filter Rods, Welding & Brazing Fluxes
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Safety
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20%
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Hearing Head, Face, Eye, Hand & Foot Protection, Workplace Safety, Clothing, Respiratory
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Abrasives
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20%
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Cutting & Grinding Disks
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Power Tools
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5%
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Angle Grinders, Drills and Chop Saws
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Hand Tools
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5%
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Clamps, Hacksaws, Spanners, Ratchets & Wrenches
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Delivery and collection charges may apply.
Added 05/02/07
Wimbledon Open Hot Rod meeting February 4 results - with thanks to Marlene Clarke
Heat 1: 197 491 105 100 61 28. 15 laps, clutch start
Car 105 confirmed as Billy, not Deane, Wood. No-show: 158
Heat 2: 61 100 197 105 28 491(X-2)
491 docked two places for contact on 105
Final: 61 197 100 105
491 non-starter, 28 in fence 6 laps from end of race
Added 05/02/07
New Carter Colours
The Peter Carter Transport team have used the winter racing break to re-prepare the formerly gold Stu Carter Tigra to black livery with red, silver & white graphics.
Added 04/02/07
Sylvia brings the feminine touch to Ireland
Lady racer Sylvia Tobin is moving up from the local Hot Rod class at Tipperary to the big-league National series. She will initially campaign her ex-Stanley Focus with a new Nat-spec. motor, before taking delivery of an all-new chassis shortly. Sylvia joins fellow newcomers Eddie Foott Jr. and Orey Stanley as the first three drivers anywhere to trial the new NHRPA provisional licence scheme.
Added 29/01/07
Wimbledon Open Hot Rod meeting February 4
With thanks to Marlene Clarke, the Home page at nationalhotrod.com will be carrying LIVE news and results from this meeting, throughout Sunday evening. Keep the Home page refreshed for updates as they happen... Wimbledon Stadium, Sunday February 4, 5.30pm start. Open Hot Rods, tyres as usual for this type of meet - 2 Hoosiers, 2 Avons, in any configuration. Book in through the Spedeworth South office, 01252 336760 Mon-Fri 9am-5pm. Bookings as at 29/01: 100 Dicky Burtenshaw, 28 Ross Ayling, 105 Billy Wood, 197 Micky Pagden, 491 Colin Smith. Additional entries here when we receive them. Additional reporting with thanks to Marlene Clarke
Added 14/01/07
Hoosier sponsor RACEceiver deal
Roy Eaton, the NHRPA Chairman, has negotiated a sponsorship deal with Andy Postance and Martin Lamb of Hoosier Tires, to provide 2007 licenced National Hot Rod drivers with RACEceivers. These NASCARstyle devices provide one way contact between the Steward of the meeting and the drivers on track during a race.
RACEceivers are used successfully by 99.9% of USA oval racers. We believe that introducing these devices to our formula is a positive move towards cleaner, safer racing. A RACEceiver consists of a small battery powered clip-on device and two hearing-aid type transducers, which fit inside your ears. The headsets have sound cancelling foam pads to cut out external noise.
When fully operational, every driver will hear the Steward's instructions or comments at the same time, which we envisage will bring about a number of benefits. For example drivers can be warned or advised:
1. Where they should be on the grid, enabling grids to be formed up more quickly and efficiently, particularly for a restart following a red or yellow flag situation.
2. About a rolling or clutch start and how many warm-up laps to expect.
3. Of a spun or stranded car or other obstacles on track.
4. That oil is on the track, and where.
5. That a yellow flag situation is coming, and reminded to slow down, and not get out of the car.
6. That a red flag situation has developed, and whether outside assistance is allowed or not.
7. Driver x, you are baulking driver y, allow him room to try and pass you.
8. Driver x, you have been observed making contact on driver y, a penalty may be imposed.
9. Driver x, you have been black flagged for . . . , pull off the track immediately.
10. Driver x, your transponder is not working.
11. Driver x, please report to race control.
etc. etc.
Needless to say, it will take a little time for both drivers and officials to get used to the new system, but we are confident that it will bring big improvements as the season progresses.
Colin Gomm tested the new system for us last year and commented, "This is the best thing that ever came into the sport. It will improve safety and help the organisers run better meetings".
You will be issued with your RACEceiver when you purchase your 2007 NHRPA licence and be informed in advance when your racing area (England, N. Ireland or ROI) is licenced for transmission and fully operational. From this point in time, you will not be allowed on track without a RACEceiver fitted and working with charged batteries. Please do not turn up at any track and expect to race without both a current licence and RACEceiver - you won't. Provisional Licence holders will have a RACEceiver 'on loan' for each meeting until their licence is upgraded.
We are sure you will support us in making this a successful venture for the progression and stature of National Hot Rod Racing. If you have any questions or queries concerning RACEceivers, please contact:
The NHRPA: Tel. 0208 571 4165 or 07860 461278, e-mail nhrpa@blueyonder.co.uk
Roy Eaton: Tel: 01728 638489, e-mail admin@spedeworthea.co.uk
Roy Eaton, NHRPA Chairman
Added 22/12/06
First sighting of Keith Martin’s all-new entirely self-built 206cc, with thanks to Simon Kennedy. You can email news and pictures of winter projects HERE
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Added 06/12
NHRPA chairman Roy Eaton’s end-of-year letter to all drivers.
05 December 2006
Dear Driver
Thank you for your hard work and support this season - on reflection it has been a good year. The rookie drivers are getting to grips with the formula, have been investing in new cars, and are starting to nip at the heels of the top men. We have also been pleased to welcome back some familiar faces from previous seasons, and these guys have been quick to pick up their old form.
 I am currently looking at the specifications for next season, and want to tackle some of the points that have been raised throughout the year. As always, I like to try and get feedback from drivers and their teams before the committee makes any decisions, and therefore I would be grateful if you could let me have your thoughts and comments on the following:
1. I think most of you are aware of the testing that has been carried out with the Ford Duratec engine this year. The engine has been supplied by Mountune, and was fitted into the Haird Motorsport Fiesta, which has been driven this season by the Royal Barry Lee. What some of you won’t know, is that the cost of all this testing has been borne by Haird Motorsport, namely David Haird, and I would like to extend our gratitidue for his contribution.
The results of the testing have been analysed and monitored by myself and affiliated parties, and we cant see any reason why the Duratec engine should not be introduced as from January 1st 2007. It would be introduced to the current 16V NHRPA specification, with 38mm maximum venturi sizes, a fixed advanced curve and an 8,000 rpm maximum rev. limit. There are a few other technical details which can be forwarded if the introduction of this engine gets the green light. MBE will supply the ignition pack, and I am waiting for a graph of the advance curve.
The only other issue is that the engine is 10kg lighter than the Vauxhall and we have a maximum inside weight limit; is this really a problem? It could help some of the older, heavier cars make the weight limits, and new cars would have some front-to-rear weight distribution to play with. We have put restrictions on new engines in the past, which has wasted time, money and effort for those who want to move the formula forward. The Duratec seems to be the engine which will be manufactured in sufficient numbers to keep us supplied for the next ten years plus. If you feel the need, please fax, email, write or phone me with your comments and thoughts, positive or negative. Please ensure that you respond to me by the 11th December 2006. Contact details are at the end of this letter.
2. We will be introducing the RACEceiver communication system from January 2007. If any of you have not seen or heard anything about this, I can tell you that this is a one way radio system, from the steward to the drivers. Each driver will have a small clip-on receiver and two ear pieces. The cost is approximately £100-120 per driver. We believe that this system will help to deal with many of the ongoing issues during races, such as drivers not giving others a racing line, contact, and baulking etc. This will also give the steward the ability to warn all drivers about obstacles on the track, advise about re-starts and yellow flag status. This will speed up the response time from drivers and many situations can be dealt with more quickly, without the need for track staff to run over and speak to drivers. I would point out that marshals will still use the flag system, and the steward's decision is final, so if anyone’s RACEceiver unit mysteriously stops working midway through a race, there will still be no excuses for non-compliance to instructions. If it is not necessary for track marshals and stewards to be on the track, lining up grids etc, this will look far more professional and make the running of meetings quicker and smoother. We are sure that the investment for the NHRPA and the drivers will be very worthwhile, and will soon become a major benefit to the sport, as it has already within the Legends formula.
If you have any concerns about the new system, please forward details to me. Information on how to obtain the units will be forwarded to you in the near future.
*
Fixtures for next season have not yet been finalised, but we will have them ready for the NEC, and they will be mailed out to all of you shortly afterwards. We have not been able to secure funding for an NHRPA show stand for the NEC this year, but James Jamieson's new car will be on the Spedeworth stand, and as always the Spedeworth EA staff will endeavour to promote the formula alongside their other classes over the weekend. I understand that Haird Motorsport, Simpson Race Exhausts and Chris Ludlow Motorsport will also have stands at the NEC, and I believe they will all have National Hot Rods on their stands, and will help us promote the formula. In addition to this of course, the Nationals will be featured in the Indoor Arena Live Action shows, and my thanks in advance to the drivers who have agreed to compete. This is a big part of the NEC Show, and a wonderful opportunity for us to really showcase the formula. You can find information about the NEC Show on their website or via the link on the Spedeworth website. If you are coming to the show please look out for the Spedeworth stand, which is no.11310. NHRPA Officials, Spedeworth staff and myself will be based there over the weekend and can take any enquiries you may have.
I do try to make myself as available as I can to all drivers who have queries or questions, or who simply want to impart information to help us continue to manage the formula. I can be reached at the Spedeworth EA office on most days when we are not racing, please dont hesitate to contact me if you want to talk.
Roy Eaton's contact details:
Telephone: 01728 638489
Fax: 01728 638942
E-mail: sally@spedeworthea.co.uk
In the meantime, I would like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas, a great New Year, and ask you please to come back to me quickly if you would like to make any comments with regard to the points detailed in this letter.
Yours sincerely
Roy Eaton
Chairman
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Added 01/12
Stimson absolutely the Best!
2006 Best in Britain, Wimbledon, Sunday 26th November
Graham Brown reports: Neil Stimson made his rare trip to Wimbledon well worth while, the Peterborough racer totally dominating the annual Best in Britain event to record an immaculate hat-trick of wins.
There was a rather larger entry than in recent years, with the nowadays usual mix of Nationals and Outlaws on hand to contest the title, and some very handy looking entries amongst the latter. Generally speaking though, it's the Nationals who are expected to come out on top even if Deane Wood (last year's winner) was technically an Outlaw!
On this occasion, last year's winning car was driven by Billy Wood, Deane being in South Africa. Other Outlaw entries included Gary Andrews in what, on this particular evening, was a less than reliable Audi TT, Gary Stow, Ross Ayling and Mike Loosemore. Dicky Burtenshaw - who this time last year was threatening to join the National circuit - was back with his rapid Colt, while Ian McGuigan had made the long (and ultimately fruitless) journey down from Scotland with his very pretty car.
A rather plain looking but obviously quite effective 206 appeared in the hands of former 2.0 Hot Rod driver Mick Pagden. I know from previous conversations with Micky that he has thought of having a National in the past, but had dismissed the idea as being too costly. Clearly, he has revised this opinion, but as to whether he ever applies for a NHR licence remains to be seen. It would be nice if he did, because Mick is one of those drivers who I've always thought would be a real asset to the Nationals. Time will tell.
There was a fair smattering of Nationals, with the usual suspects you'd expect to be up for a blast at Plough Lane, and absences from the ones who we know aren't! They were joined by twice former winner Barry Lee, a last minute entry who reckoned it was 18 years since he last raced at Wimbledon! Without checking, that sounds a fair estimate - it's certainly been a while. Leapy was, as expected, driving the experimental Team Haird Fiesta with the Duratec motor and it would be fair to say, he never looked all that happy in it all night. Mind you, as Colin White remarked recently, its surprising how quickly you get 'race rusty' if you haven't been driving short ovals for a time, and he certainly hadn't been out of it as long as Barry.
Andrew Burgess was another who one might not normally expect to find at this event, while Richard Spavins' appearance really didn't come as much of a surprise. Colin Smith and Neil Stimson haven't exactly been regular racers just lately, so both of these were welcome arrivals. Quite whether the competition would agree about Stimson being welcome by the end of the evening, would be another matter!
As expected, it was to be an 'all-in' three race format, with a drawn and then reversed grid for the heats, best aggregate scorers to the front for the final.
Stuart Carter stepped off pole to lead the opening heat on what was a very greasy track after plenty of rain earlier in the day. He was soon under pressure from Colin Gomm, who took it up with two laps gone. Colin didn't have long to enjoy being out front however, as the fast moving Stimson (started row three) swiftly caught up and went ahead exiting the pit bend.
Shortly before that, Chris Haird took a spin on the pit bend exit and got soundly clouted by....team mate Barry Lee. Needless to say, the incident wasted both of them quite a bit of time.
With a dry line forming, Stimson was soon romping away, eventually taking the flag over a quarter of a lap ahead of Gomm and Colin Smith.
Heat two needed a restart after Billy Wood and Reuben Taylor got together leaving the pit bend on lap one, sparking off an accident which saw cars going in all directions and Dick Hillard unfortunately hard into the fence. McGuigan's car was also dragged off after the shunt minus the left front wheel. Wood's Colt had also taken a bit of a pummelling which the quick application of racer's tape to keep the door in place, hadn't totally fixed. The car was trailing smoke afterwards which looked as though it might just have been caused by a bent axle - certainly he didn't re-appear for the final.
The restart had Andy Burgess, Mike Loosemore and Dicky Burtenshaw scrapping for the lead. But Stimson was coming through from the back of the field as though jet propelled. The red Fiesta was soon challenging the leaders, where Smith had now replaced Loosemore in the dice.
Burgess eventually got bundled out of it and Smith ran wide, allowing Burtenshaw through to the front but now up against Stimson. The Outlaw man certainly gave a good account of himself, but seemingly nothing was going to stop Stimson hitting the front, Neil diving past on the inside of the far turn to make it two out of two.
With Stimson now destined to be on pole, the final looked to be simply a case of who was going to be second. Sure enough, Neil was soon off and running. But what could have been quite an anti-climax, was actually anything but. Once 'Smiffy' had dealt with Gomm to achieve second, he was in hot pursuit all the way. He wasn't making much impression until, with five laps to run, he suddenly started closing the gap. Perhaps Neil had set up to run the track when it was greasy - which it really wasn't anymore nearing the finish. Then again, perhaps Smith had set up to run in the dry and was coming good late in the race, or maybe it was a bit of each. Whatever the case, there was no doubt who was going fastest once the starter had appeared on the rostrum.
When a clump of backmarkers got under the leader's feet two laps from home there was definitely all to play for, but Stimson calmly kept things well under control to the finish.
While that was going on, there was also a terrific battle developing for third, with Gomm staying at the head of it all the way. Burtenshaw was again highly impressive in fourth, with Stuart Carter and Haird eventually having to settle for the more minor places, though not for the want of effort on either's part. Graham Brown
Results as seen trackside by Marlene Clarke:
Heat 1: 271 278 491 3 85 197 31 105 198 100
Heat 2: 271 100 491 115 780 277 85 197 49 278
Final: Grid:
271 278 85 3 277 49 28 35
491 100 197 115 780 210 351
Result: 271 491 278 100 85 115 3 277 780 28
Added 16/11
Best in Britain 2006
Spedeworth South are holding the annual Best in Britain at Wimbledon on Sunday the 26th of November, 5pm start. Bookings are being taken for National and Outlaw Hot Rods. Usual “Open Meeting” tyre rules apply: 2 x Avon A10 and 2 x Hoosier H12 - in any configuration. Entries not through the NHRPA; call the Spedeworth South booking office - 01252 322920 - open Monday to Friday 9 - 5. All welcome.
nationalhotrod.com will be covering this meeting with Live Updates of news and results throughout the evening on the home page, with thanks to Marlene Clarke.
Entry: as at 17/11/06
7 Ian McGowan, 17 Shane Newman, 28 Ross Ayling, 31 Dick Hillard, 36 Neil Muddle, 44 Gary Andrews, 100 Dicky Burtenshaw, 105 Billy Wood, 126 Gary Stow, 198 Andy Steward, 210 Hughie Weaver, 219 Russell Wilcox, 271 Neil Stimson, 285 Trevor Ward, 491 Colin Smith, 780 Mike Loosmore.
Added 19/11: 277 Andrew Burgess, 49 Reuben Taylor
Added 20/11: 197 Micky Pagden, 719 Lee Rogers, 85 Stu Carter
Added 22/11: 115 Chris Haird, 351 Barry Lee
Added 24/11: 3 Richard Spavins
Added 26/11: 278 Colin Gomm
Added 03/11
Following the resurgence in National Hot Rod racing in Northern Ireland, the already well-supported scene further south in the Republic of Ireland is about to gain three more runners. Recently advertised and sold on this website, Malcolm Clein’s SHP 206 has been acquired by Brendan “Tubs” O’Connell from Cork. Lightning Rod racer Declan Burke will be picking up the ex-Tom Casey Focus soon, and another new racer to the series will be Turlough Kenny who has recently licenced with the NHRPA. All three drivers are expected to make their big league debut at the next couple of race meetings at Tipperary Motor Speedway.
Added 03/11
 nationalhotrod.com Forum member STHILL captured the moment that this website logged its 1,000,000th hit on Monday 30th October. Many thanks from the webmaster to all who’ve contributed to its success - here’s to the next million...
Added 23/10
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Ken Salter
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 One of the star names of the West Country hot rod scene from the 1970s and ‘80s, Ken Salter, has died.
He was one of the pioneers of National Hot Rod racing, representing the South West region in the inaugural National Grand Prix series in 1978, as well as numerous national and international championship events.
His number 774 Ford Escort became a familiar sight around the UK’s raceways and was invariably among the best presented cars on the short ovals.
Regarded as one of the true gentlemen of oval racing, he will be sadly missed by his family and many friends in his home town of Cullompton, Devon, and much further afield.
After early sporting success on the soccer field – he was a schoolboy international and played professionally with Exeter City – Ken’s racing career began in the late 1960s with bangers, initially in the South West, and later in the South East with PRI and Spedeworth.
Returning to the West Country, he continued to race bangers (with considerable success) before switching to Autospeed’s lightweight saloon stock car class, Auto Rods in 1977.
The following year saw his move to hot rods with a Mk 1 Escort, and although a novice in the class, he entered the new Grand Prix series, a nationwide competition which marked the beginning of National Hot Rod racing.
He placed fifth in the Autospeed points chart and represented the South West at the National Championship at Hednesford and the NHRPA ‘picnic’ at Ringwood.
The following year, he campaigned a Murtune-engined Mk 2 Escort, achieving fifth place in the Newton Abbot GP round, 12th in the World Championship and runner-up spot in the Autospeed table.
In 1980 – just his third season in hot rods – he lifted the South West points title for the first time, and placed well in the two South West rounds of the newly-named NHRPA Championship series.
He remained among the top hot rodders in the region through the 1980s, winning the South of England title in 1981 and further points championships. He also enjoyed success in Super Rods.
Despite his illness in recent years, Ken was still a regular race-goer, and in his final months enjoyed chatting about the old days with his long-time friend and travelling partner, Ralph Sanders, who is still a familiar face on the National Hot Rod scene.
Ken was 72 and had been suffering from Parkinson’s Disease for several years and later contracted cancer. He died at a care home in Taunton on October 13.
A minute’s silence was held at Smeatharpe’s race meeting on Sunday (22nd October), the day before his funeral at Exeter crematorium.
With thanks to Andrew Weltch & Graham Brown.
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Added 01/08
Rockingham oval festival
The Corby circuit will hold a press/test day on Monday 7th August. Drivers racing at the National Championship weekend are invited to attend and try the track, further details from Incarace on 0121 357 7328
Added 31/07
Hunn banned for 10 meetings
1994 World Champion Ricky Hunn - the man dubbed “National Hot Rod racing’s elder statesman” by Sky TV’s Barry Lee - has sensationally been handed a ten race meeting ban. The sport’s governing body issued this sanction after events in heat 2 at Ringwood (22/07) following an on-track altercation involving Hunn and current World Champion Carl Boardley. Latest Penalty Points for all nations
Added 31/07
Tipperary Raceway fixtures
These will be added to the Race Dates page shortly.
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Aug
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Sun. 27, 1.30pm
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World Series (Ireland) 1
www.nationalhotrod.com
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Fiestas Championship ‘06
Plus all supporting classes
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Sept
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Sun. 3, 1.30pm
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World Series (Ireland) 2
www.nationalhotrod.com
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1600 Hot Rod Championship
Plus all supporting classes
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Sat. 8
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Pro Drift Series Qualifier
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Sun. 9
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Pro Drift Series Irl
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Sun. 17, 1.30pm
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World Series (Ireland) 3
www.nationalhotrod.com
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Plus all supporting classes
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Oct
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Sun. 1, 1.30pm
Tipperary
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World Series (Ireland) 4
www.nationalhotrod.com
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Plus all supporting classes
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Sat/Sun, 14/15, 7.15pm/1.30pm
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2006 National Hot Rod
European Championship
www.nationalhotrod.com
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O.R.C.I. Championship for Stock Rods
Tipperary Championship for Lightning Rods
Plus supporting classes t.b.c.
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Mon. 30, 1.30pm
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World Series (Ireland) 5
www.nationalhotrod.com
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Tom Henebry Memorial for 1300 Hot Rods
Tipperary Lightning Rod Championship ‘06
Plus supporting classes
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Added 28/07/06
News from the NHRPA
* There will no longer be prize money for the 2nd placed driver in the English points at the end of the season. This is due to the privilege being extended to the winners of the Northern and Southern Irish points, who will each be awarded £500.
* There will be 5 qualifiers in the 2007 World Final from both Northern and Southern Ireland.
* The tyre allocation for the National Weekend is the same as the World Final - 8 slick tyres, either used or new, which must be marked. There is no limitation on wets.
* National Weekend Reminder: no drivers are allowed to stay on the Common outside Hednesford stadium overnight. They are allowed to stay inside the stadium on Friday and Saturday night.
Added 28/07/06/
Rule Clarification/Amendments to 2006/07 Specifications: From 1st July 2006:
NHR 15 - Roll Cage - It is permitted to use 40mm (1.6") x 2mm tube on all parts of the roll cage with the exception of the main roll bar.
NHR 45 - Exhaust Systems c) (amendment) - Minimum length of 76mm (3") will be deleted. All other specifications remain unchanged
Added 21/07/06
Dates for the rest of 2006 in Northern Ireland.
WQ 1 21st July Ballymena
WQ 2 28th July Ballymena
WQ 3 29th July Nutts Corner
WQ 4 18th August Ballymena
WQ 5 27th August Nutts Corner
WQ 6 1st September Ballymena
WQ 7 16th September Nutts Corner
WQ 8 22nd September Ballymena
WQ 9 21st October Nutts Corner
WQ 10 1st January Ballymena
These will be added to the Race Dates page shortly. With thanks to Simon Kennedy.
Republic of Ireland dates to be added when made available.
Added 07/07/06
Exclusive Carl Boardley interview Here
Added 05/07/06
Marlene Clarke brings nationalhotrod.com the latest TV schedules on SKY TV for our one-hour programme "Hot Rod Heaven", details are as follows:
Hednesford 1 May
04/07/2006 23.00 SS3
05/07/2006 12.00 SS3
05/07/2006 16.00 SS3
07/07/2006 CHECK: should be SS2
Ipswich 29 May
11/07/2006 19.00 SS3
11/07/2006 23.00 SS3
12/07/2006 13.00 SS3
Birmingham 10 June
18/07/2006 18.00 SS Xtra
18/07/2006 21.00 SS2
19/07/2006 13.00 SS3
20/07/2006 11.00 SS2
20/07/2006 16.00 SS3
23/07/2006 11.00 SS Xtra
2006 World Final
25/07/2006 18.00 SS Xtra
25/07/2006 23.00 SS2
26/07/2006 08.00 SS3
26/07/2006 14.00 SS2
As always please check with your tv guides in case of changes to the broadcast times.
Added 30/06/06
Mad Jock reports: For the eighteenth time since March, the Scottish Rods appeared on track for the final time before the mid-season MORE
Received from the NHRPA on 27/06, and for the first time, downloadable as a PDF document, the National Hot Rod rules and regs. MORE
Garry Staines reports: One of the main talking points in the National Hot Rod forum this year has been the dislike of the MORE
The third National Hot Rod programmes on Sky Sports Schedule
* Nigel Steward’s part 2 of the anatomy of the 75 Corsa. MORE
Added 28/05/06
Marlene Clarke brings nationalhotrod.com the full TV schedules on SKY TV for the first four of our one-hour programmes. The programme will be called "Hot Rod Heaven", details are as follows
Prog 1
Ringwood (14 April) sponsor Ricky Hunn
June 13 Sky Sports 3 7pm, 11pm
June 14 SS3 3am, 10am, 11pm
June 15 SS3 12am
Prog 2
Ipswich (17 April) sponsor Roy Eaton
June 20 SS3 7pm, 10pm
June 21 SS3 7am
June 21 Sky Sports Extra 3pm
June 23 Sky Sports 2 1pm
Prog 3
Ipswich (29 April) sponsor David Haird
June 27 SS3 1pm, 7pm
June 27 SS extra 10pm
June 28 SS3 7.30am
June 28 SS extra 4.40pm
June 29 SS2 12pm
Prog 4
Hednesford (1 May) sponsor Jeff Simpson
July 4 SS3 7pm
This is the latest information I have, hope to have more confirmed shortly. As always please check with your tv guides in case of changes to the broadcast times. Round 16 (May 29) is sponsored by Andy Steward
Added 28/05/06
25/05: To all National Hot Rod Drivers Competing in the Northern Irish World Series.
Due to the perceived problems which occurred at Round 10 (Nutts Corner on 22nd April 2006), the NHRPA has reached the following decision:
Regardless of the outcome of the final round at Nutts Corner on Saturday 27th May 2006, the top six drivers in the Northern Irish points chart after this round, will be deemed to have qualified for the 2006 World Final race at Ipswich Speedweekend.
After lengthy deliberations the NHRPA has decided that this is the only way to bring a just conclusion to the situation which resulted from some confusion regarding statements made prior to the commencement of Round 10, whilst at the same time being completely fair to drivers who may have been disadvantaged both at the time and since.
This is a special dispensation and does not mean that Northern Ireland will have six qualifiers in 2007
Roy Eaton
Chairman NHRPA
c.c. Philip Bond, Paul Gerrard, Aubrey Arbuthnot, Davy McCall, Graham Brown & Angie Rowe.
Added 07/05/06
To all drivers - a reminder from Philip Bond re-Hednesford Raceway
It is strictly forbidden to stay overnight on the Common at Hednesford before a meeting. Please bear this in mind for the National Weekend in August and any other meetings at Hednesford
Added 24/04/06
NHRPA statement clarifies 2006 World Series.
No changes, but review for 2007.
At Nutts Corner on Saturday 22nd April, a suggestion was circulated that both Northern and Southern Ireland could each send their top seven World Series drivers to compete for their allocated five places in the lap times at Ipswich in July. NHRPA chairman Roy Eaton has confirmed that this will not happen, and the rules for qualification - top five drivers only from each nation - are unchanged. Roy told nationalhotrod.com “At this stage, it is an idea, as is perhaps guaranteeing the winners of the two Irish series’ a group one slot in the lap times. But these are just ideas at present; the NHRPA has no plans to move the goalposts at this crucial stage. These ideas though, will be discussed as a part of the NHRPA’s review of World Qualifying in all nations, for 2007”.
Added 28/04/06
2006 race meetings to be televised by SKY TV
Story - Marlene Clarke: SKY TV details are as follows, programme title to be confirmed. It will be a stand-alone National Hot Rod racing programme, the first - featuring Ringwood on Good Friday - will go out on the 13th of June. All broadcasts are on Sky Sports 3:
June 13th: 7pm and 11pm
June 14th: 3am, 10am and 1pm
June 15th: 12am
This weekend's May holiday meetings at Ipswich and Hednesford will be filmed for Sky and have been sponsored by David Haird (29th April - Ipswich) and Jeff Simpson (1st May - Hednesford).
Added 20/04/06
2006 race meetings to be televised by SKY TV
Story - Marlene Clarke: Here are the first details of which meetings are presently scheduled to be televised on SKY Sports, and the sponsors who have underwritten/backed each programme:
14 April: Ricky Hunn
17 April: Spedeworth EA Ltd
29 April: David Haird
1 May: Jeff Simpson
29 May: Andy Steward
10 June: Philip Bond
1/2 July: Spedeworth EA Ltd
Later meetings to be confirmed.
Added 01/03/06
How to build a National Hot Rod.
Nigel Steward takes nationalhotrod.com exclusively through the build process of his National Hot Rod in words and pictures. Part One
Added 08/02/06
Practice sessions at Ipswich & good value World Final campsite details
Practice sessions at Foxhall on Sat. 18/02 & Sat. 04/03, 6-10pm - contact Spedeworth EA 01728 638489.
Details of good value camping at the WF Spede-weekend: Ady (the Fud) Ford (Banger #156) tells us
“Hi, thought you Hot Rod boys would like to be made aware of new camping and parking facillities available for the World Final weekend at Ipswich. The Orwell Crossing Lorry Park is offering tent pitches at £5 a night and trucks, caravans coaches etc at £12 a night. It has a 24-hr restaurant, wc, showers, security and cctv. Call on 01473 659140. (Please note I don’t work for the lorry park but my workshop is on the same site; the park is no more then 10 mins from the stadium.) Good luck, Ady”.
Added 06/02/06
2006 London Open Championship for Hot Rods - by John Perry
Only seven cars raced for the London Open championship at Wimbledon on 5th Feb. Representing the Nationals were Colin Gomm and Andy Steward in their usual mounts, and lining up for the Outlaws were Deane Wood in the 105 Colt, Colin Crocker in his usual Fiesta, Trevor Ward in the 285 Clio, Andy Fraser in his amazing V8 Imp and Dicky Burtenshaw in what looked very much like the ex-Darren Akehurst/Richard Poulter Colt.
It was, however, very much a case of quality over quantity; both the 15 lap heats featuring a fierce three-way dice for the lead between Steward, Wood and Gomm, in all cases conducted at an awesome pace, the newly configured track in perfect condition. Both heats went the way of Doughnut, as did the 15 lap Final, which featured both Wood and Gomm taking it in turns to try and dislodge Doughnut from his lead, Gomm very nearly making it stick on the outside before dropping back to third. Gomm did make it back past Wood in the end as the three crossed the line virtually as one in the order 198, 278, 105, and 121 - Crocker being the only other finisher.
Added 19/01/06
Wimbledon Open Hot Rod meeting - February 5 2006
So far only the following drivers are booked in for this event: 100 Dicky Burtenshaw, 278 Colin Gomm, 198 Andy Steward, 105 Deane Wood. Other entries should contact Spedeworth South
Added 19/01/06
Dick Hillard reports from the SA v UK Test Series
“The UK team clinched the series 2-0 on Saturday (14/01) at Pietersberg. It was an awesome night’s racing on possibly the best track I’ve ever raced on in South Africa. There was not as much damage this time, and Keith Martin and myself were always in the first two places. Going into the final - after four heats - the UK was leading by just 1 point; we then clinched the series by finishing in the first four places. The final test is this Saturday, again at Pietersberg. This time we intend putting on a real show of UK Hot Rod racing with the quickest cars starting at the back.”
SOUTH AFRICAN UK TOUR NATIONAL HOT RODS
Results from the 2nd Test SA v UK at Polokwane held on the 14/1/06
Points
Heat 1a
1st UK 994 Keith Martin 4
2nd UK 31 Dick Hillard 3
3rd SA 23 Matty Maartens 2
4th SA 2 Sefie Fourne 1
Heat 1b
1st SA 5 Shane De Beer 6
2nd SA 151 Frank Boontjes 5
3rd UK 491 Colin Smith 4
4th UK 3 Dave Hitchen 3
5th UK 8 Adaan Englebrecht 2
6th SA 12 Frans Nagel 1
Heat 2a
1st UK 31 Dick Hillard 4
2nd UK 994 Keith Martin 3
3rd SA 23 Matty Martens 2
4th SA 2 Sefie Fourie 1
Heat 2b
1st UK 491 Colin Smith 6
2nd SA 151 Frank Boontjes 5
3rd SA 5 Shane De Beer 4
4th UK 3 Dave Hitchen 3 - 3 points Penalty
5th SA 12 Frans Nagel 2
6th UK 8 Adann Engelbrecht 1
FINAL
1st UK 994 Keith Martin 10
2nd UK 31 Dick Hillard 9
3rd UK 491 Colin Smith 8
4th UK 3 Dave Hitchen 7 - 3 points Penalty
5th SA 5 Shane De Beer 6
6th SA 12 Frans Nagel 5
7th UK 8 Adaan Englebrecht 4
8th SA 2 Sefie Fourie 3 - 3 points Penalty
9th SA 23 Matt Maartens 2
TOTAL POINTS UK 65, SA 42
Added 16/01/06
nationalhotrod.com Driver Awards
The winners of the nationalhotrod.com Driver Awards were announced at Autosport International at the NEC over the weekend, and the five major titles were shared by just three drivers. Top accolade, Driver of the Year, was scooped by World and European Champion Keith Martin, who also was awarded Driver of International Merit. Dick Hillard was voted Best Presented Car and Team, as well as Driver of Special Merit, and newcomer Matt Simpson was named Rookie of the Year. The awards were voted for by readers of this website.
nationalhotrod.com Driver Awards for 2005
(no. & name)(votes cast)
(top eight’s only)
Rookie of the Year
1. 303 Matt Simpson (147)
2. 901 Ian Thompson Jr. (121)
3. 2 Ken Marriott (72)
4. 75 Nigel Steward (51 ineligible)< |
