The Committee had been a little concerned about this day for some time. Not only was the weather very unpredictable in June but the numbers were down on what the Club required to cover costs. The track and ambulance is $3,000 up front and depending on the number of participants you either win or lose. The previous day had been very overcast and our day was looking much the same. On arrival the track seemed damp but not soaked.

The lads running the show were very helpful addressing everybody initially to ensure people played by the rules. These guys have no doubt had to put up with many a fool in their time during ride days. One of the guys helping run the day called ‘Optus’ (as he is required to always say yes) was explaining how on some days ride participants just wanted to smoke rear tires or do monos down the main straight. This may look good, however is considered a little dangerous to other riders. Optus and the other members from the Superbike school allowed scrutinearing to be as fuss free as possible. The only bike that was in some need of attention was, surprise, surprise Danny’s VFR750. A set a front brake pads were put in and old faithful went out and performed.

In term of bikes we had an impressive range from a virtually brand new Augusta 750 to a cruiser with saddlebags. The guy with the Augusta had a back up Ducati 748 just in case and brought both bikes along just to see which one would tickle his fancy. Most bikes were the ever reliable and always affordable Japanese across the frame fours.

As the day began nobody was in a terrible rush to get out there a set a new lap record as the dark, wet surface still looked menacing. In dribs and drabs people entered the track just feeling their way around. Very wise. A the rear of the track dirt could be seen after the back straight and caused some concern until you had been though it several times. A gap of about a metre was available that meant if your lines were right you had nothing to be concerned about. It was only if you ran wide the dirt became an issue. It’s your confidence that gets knocked around more than the dirt being a problem on the track.

Given the conditions and that many people were inexperienced at Sandown most riders were still managing to get past the 200 km/h mark down the main straight so the opportunity to ride fast was available all day. Some riders however did push perhaps that little bit too far with three incidents for the day. Two minor, as in the damage was cosmetic and one major, as in a write off. These are always the risks associated with ride days. Special mention should go to Paul Talents who made himself available to repair a non members bike if the need arose. It was a good time to demonstrate what can be achieved, as many of Paul’s previous customers were there ie Ben, Tim etc.

Thanks to Julie we all ate well with freshly cooked meat and onions. Her contribution was very much appreciated and it is people such as this that keep a Club going. Likewise to Dave who has the contacts to much such opportunities possible. As a result of the ride day the Club may pick up some addition riders. Jack Youdan also provide the Club with additional funds by paying $75 even though he probably would not ride. The participants of the day were majority members but only just. As a result the support required for the day was not there and in the end the Club lost money. It is a shame that a Club with 70 members can only motivate about 16 to participate in such activities.

Regards,

Wayne Grant (Kawasaki ZX9)