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Tuesday 2nd March - Another day at
the Races
Day two of the races is traditionally
quieter but we break the bank with not just a repeat of the first
day but with more people and more BSAs.
Though I’m run off my feet
again I break to watch the BSA parade lap, even it only has bits of
our clutch taking part. I’m disappointed that I can’t take part but
I’ve had too much fun to care.
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Can I follow you...? |
As people get ready for the parade a
“pssstt…. Myles!” gets my attention. It’s UK BSAOC member Brian
Pollitt who pulls me aside and says “I’ve done this before, for all
the work you’ve done no-one deserves it more than you do – have my
ride.” I could have kissed him but I didn’t have time. I borrow his
leathers, track pass and an A65 US Spitfire. The bike belongs to
Harris Turner who advises me that it's made of metal and plastic,
all stuff that can be fixed if I dump it on the track.
Other bikes are heading to the start
line so I've got get ready in a hurry. As I dress, Brian explains
the track layout and gives me some pointers, with a special mention
for the chicane which you can't see until it appears in front of
you. In my excitement I forget all of this and decide to
follow someone else experienced for the first lap.
On the starting grid I
see Dick Klamfoth (and our clutch) in front but this is as close as
I ever get to him - he roars away from me soon as we start. For my
first lap I familiarise myself with the track and stay at the bottom
of the banked corners but by the second lap I decide to gas it and
go up the banking – I may never get the chance again!
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... and crossing the finish line! |
It turns out
to be easier if you don’t think about it and just go fast. At the end of
the second lap I’ve overtaken one Goldie on the bank and another in
the chicane.
By the 3rd lap I’m getting 105mph round the bank but
the rear begins to wallow as I chase a Benelli four (how did he get
here?) through the chicane. Then I remember that this is a) not a
race and b) not my bike and decide to cool it a little.
The remainder is pure joy as I
finish wearing a grin that could split my helmet but instead earns
me a smile from the man with the chequered flag. I did the banking
at Daytona!
What Happened Next
-
Jerry Wood's and Beyond.
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