The third one I remember was over the other side of Hookwood, along the path I had trodden the very first time I came up here the previous September. It involved a curved climb along a rocky path with some logs here and there. I did get through to the finish but it wasn't pretty and another 5, a number with which I was becoming increasingly familiar! Unfortunately, but perhaps not unsurprisingly, I am unable to complete anything close to 4 laps. After one lap I take a break for water and a snack and the second lap is almost more ugly than the first. By the time that is finished, everyone is just about packing up and calling it a day. I do just have time to park up and wander back around the sections to thank the observers; hopefully I gave them few laughs if nothing else. I top up my tank and ride the few miles home.
Grass Track News
Q By Andy Wood
New Club Formed With the clear intention of getting more new riders to take up the sport "The Classic Grasstrack Racing Club" was formed at the end of last year. Events are to be organised with the principle to provide club level racing, aimed at having fun without having to spend a fortune. There are plans to run pre '80 solo classes in 250/350/500 cc also uprights but total loss only. A pre '60 open class will also be added to cater for the much older machines. The popular GT140s are to be included to encourage not only the older riders but most importantly all youth classes as well. There will be no class for sidecars at this stage. The club are planning to run two meetings at Ugley, near Stansted, Essex during the summer and added to this they are trying to secure other venues to run a further two meetings this year. Membership at £15 is open to individuals riders or non riders to be involved with the running of the club. Your ideas you may have or comments will be welcome contact either
Epilogue That evening my wife points out a huge red bruise on my left pelvis, which I'm actually quite grateful for – at least there is some visible evidence of the pain I'm feeling! She even takes a (discrete) picture of it, although for what reason I can't quite imagine. The worst bit though comes two weeks later. I go out to the garage to get ready for another session up at Hookwood for personal practice and maybe a revisit of some of those sections. But the bike won't start; it's the first time I've tried since returning from the trial. After an hour of kicking, prodding and swearing, I eventually take the plug out and there is no spark at all. It appears that, for some reason or other unknown, the electrics have died!
Dave Brown 01449675184 or 07879642374 or Chris Norris 07817791563. Maidstone Aces Motorcycle Club Unfortunately the club will no longer be able to promote Grasstrack race meetings in 2021 or continue as a club after 2021. Maidstone Aces will now be under the control of the SE Grasstrack Combine, who will endeavour to find people to take over the club. Please contact Rick Colvin on 07774 269856. For anyone who would be interested in taking the club on and promoting Grasstrack Racing. Thank you to everyone who have supported Maidstone Aces in the past. Hopefully our sport will be able to move on in 2021. Vintage AGM The VMCC Grasstrack and Speedway Section will be holding their AGM via Zoom on February 28th at 2.00 pm. As this is a new venture for us, we intend to have a practice meeting on Sunday 21st February at 2.00pm. If you are interested in joining us on any of these dates, then please contact me at nwaddoups51@hotmail.co.uk.
Notice to all clubs, please send us details of your future events this year. Would you like to contribute? Please send to the editor, contact details on page 3. 21
