Aintree Report Sat 5th Sept 2009.
The big question today centered around the weather; was it going to rain, and when? As always, Liverpool Motor Club put on a superb event that always runs like clockwork. We were entered in Class 3B as usual (1400-2000 Modified Production) with the usual 205's (one sponsored by LAD), a Lancia Delta, an XR2, and a very nice looking MG ZR that looked like an ex-factory car and arrived in a big transporter.
The day started dry, but the circuit was wet in places. I fitted the new Mich tyres for P1 and promptly spun at the first corner. A mixture of brand new tyres that were still glossy and the mixed conditions perhaps. Kept the Mich's on for P2 but it was now raining so took it fairly easy 59.73. Very slippy and not the time to be trying to scrub in new tyres. This had me a close second behind the MG who had race wets fitted.
Decided that the weather was probably going to be changeable throughout the day so fitted my trusty Toyo R888s quickly before the timed runs commenced.
T1 was still quite wet, 55.94 (MG 56.83, 205 fitted with slicks 58.23)
T2 a bit drier but still damp, 53.49 (MG 63, 205 54.33)
Lunch. Track was getting dry now but dark clouds were all around so tough call whether to stick the Mich's on or stay with the 888s. Decide on the latter as the track was well slippy and not really a day to get the best out of slicks IMO.
T3, dry but slippy track, 52.44 (MG 55.72, 205 54.13). Tried a couple new lines that seemed to work out well - not far off my best time at Aintree on slicks on a hot sunny day.
T4, as above, 52.41 (MG 54.92, 205 53.86)
So 1st in class at Aintree - RESULT - well chuffed as have never had this before at Aintree, several seconds, but never top spot at this circuit. 52.41, 205 second 53.86 and MG third 54.92.
A very difficult day to go sprinting - very changeable conditions and you dont get time much circuit time to work out where the grip level is.
Pics to follow
Ave it
Rob