M7RC15 Issue 2

Pit and Paddock

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2015

2015 Issue 2 Official Mini Se7en Racing Club Newsletter www.mini7.co.uk

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preview: Rounds 3&4 Snetterton

MAY 9-10, 2015

WORDS: Richard Williamson

The Norfolk venue returns to the Challenge calendar after a break last season, and on the previous visit in 2013 it was a weekend to remember for Andrew Deviny and Peter Baldwin, with hard-fought double victories in Se7en and Miglia respectively. Expect this May’s visit to be no less exciting…

MINI SE7EN & S CLASS Prospects for a cracking Mini Se7en season in 2015 were certainly set into full swing at Combe, with a splendidly healthy 25-car grid, including returning 1993 Champion Tina Cooper, and a pair of races that both went right down Quick Links

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to the wire. A wilt determination saw thrice former Champion Paul Spark take third place in the opener and the same experience to be in the right place on the last lap in the second race to pick up the full 20 points and go clear at the top of the table. Four points behind

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1

Pit & Paddock in second is 2007 Champion, Max Hunter, who returns as competitive as ever after an enforced absence in 2014, and who picked up a best of second at Combe.

On the same points but with a best of third is Jabez Dyer, and he should be one to watch among the leaders. Last year’s series runner-up, Darren Thomas looked set for a double victory to start this season’s campaign, but a mechanical glitch when leading the second race on the last lap dropped him down the order and to fourth overall in the standings.

Meanwhile, reigning Champ

April 2015 Issue 2

Andrew Deviny drove a stormer in the Combe opener to come from the very back of the grid to second, but whose ignition problems in qualifying returned at the start of the next race to leave him propping up the top-10 overall.

A host of other likely frontrunners cannot be discounted from taking top points at Snetterton, while in the milder-tuned 1275cc S-Class category an encouraging five cars have appeared already, with seasoned campaigner Ian Deviny holding the points advantage with a double class victory.

Likely winners in Norfolk? As in the Grand National, there are too many to call, but you’ll be guaranteed hectic 1.0-litre horsepower as the runners and riders all jockey for position to the line. Place yer bets…

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Mini se7en Records

Lap record: Andrew Deviny Time: 2:27.457 Ave. 72.48 mph set on 15 July 2012

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April 2015 Issue 2

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Tha MINI MIGLIA

nks to a win and third place in the opening two rounds, leading the points table early in the season is nothing unusual for Kane Astin, but the Cambridgeshire driver will be hoping to finally add to his Mini Se7en title of 2009 with the coveted Miglia crown, having gone close on several occasions.

That the experienced Dan Wheeler sits third overall heading to Snetterton is no surprise either, but what is less expected however is Mark Cowan’s current placing, just two points behind Astin, even allowing for the fact he has taken over the controls of the successful multi-titlewinning Baldwin Motorsport car. A second place and then a tigering recovery drive to fourth, including fastest lap at Combe, marks him out as a possible firsttime winner at Snett.

Reigning Champ Rupert Deeth Quick Links

carried his 2014 form into this season with an opening race win, although a time penalty in the second has dropped him behind the rapidly improving Sam Summerhayes in the standings. With Dave Drew, Aaron Smith, Colin Peacock, Rob Howard, Tony Le May, Niv Burge and Tristen Knight all capable of podium performances too, predicting the winners is no easy task. However, predicting fast, flat-out action from start-to-finish among the 1.3-litre, slick-tyred monster performance Miglias is a safe bet!

Adding to the Miglia grid, there will also be one or more of the historic-style Mini-7 Classic and Invitation Class cars along to provide an eclectic Mini mix.

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MINI MIGLIA Records Lap record: Peter Baldwin Time. 2:13.68 Ave: 79.95 mph set on 15 July 2012

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April 2015 Issue 2

Mini Se7en News

Chairman’s chat O ur first meeting has taken place at one of my favourite circuits, Castle Combe. Unfortunately I was unable to attend and I gather from various sources, that the racing was ‘eventful’ at times, but also the best racing of the day – No surprise there then!

It must have been quite hectic for both Formulae to race twice in one day, a real test for the cars and more so for the mechanics!

The next four rounds will allow drivers, cars and mechanics to ‘relax’ with one race on each day. One encouraging aspect of Castle Combe was the healthy entry list ~ Qualification 25 Mini Se7ens / S Class and 17 Mini Miglias {including Invitation Class}. This, I hope, is the way it will stay {or increase} for the Club’s 50th season of racing.

Since the first meeting, we have now obtained, thanks to Mark Cowan and his brother, a fresh new website. If any of you find anything that doesn’t seem quite right, then please let Mark know.

It must be very difficult to get every aspect of such a website ‘right’ on day one. I have joined the forum with no difficulty, yet again if you are having any problems, please inform Mark.

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DRIVER PROFILES Also please give Mark your details, plus image if you are a driver; it makes the website that little more personal.

Thanks again to Mark and his brother for all of their hard work

NEW SPONSOR We now have a new sponsor with Mini Spares. As Chairman I would like to thank all those at Mini Spares for their support and generosity. Also as a race member you are entitled to a generous discount on parts.......... so please make sure you are carrying the correct decals / door squares and remove non-current sponsorship logos. Steve Prior {Championship Scrutineer} will be checking this at the next meeting!

COMMITTEE MEETING It will be at the next meeting {Snetterton} that we will be holding our first Technical Sub-Committee at the race track. I will post those, who have volunteered to be on the Committee, with an agenda, suitable time and which day. In summary, the idea of the SubCommittee is to discuss any technical matters, either current or those that might be ‘on the horizon’, with the best intentions

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for the club. Three definite items for discussion are dry decking, centre tunnel modifications and ‘unusual’ flywheels. The views of those who are either racing or preparing engines are welcomed.

Currently, I have received three names from the Mini Se7en ‘paddock’ and one from the Miglia ‘paddock’. So a couple more from the Miglias, would give a balanced discussion.

BEST WISHES Finally I would like to wish two Members of the M7RC all the best with their current health issues....... Rob Selby and Allan Dawkins.

Hope to see you both in the not too distant future.

See you all at Snetterton.....

Nick Nick Cooke Chairman M7RC

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April 2015 Issue 2

Mini Se7en News ...behind the wheel with charlie budd

C

harlie Budd may be a new driver with Mini Se7en racing this year but he is no stranger to mini racing with several years’ Mini racing experience under his hat; from oval racing; junior rallycross where he finished the season in fourth place twice, and then in Mighty Mini racing finishing an impressive second!

Infact, his family have decades of history with the sport. His father’s 40 years in racing, competing since the ’70s, also with his brother currently taking part in the Mini Se7en championship too, Daniel Budd, there’s sure to be some family rivalry between them.

His car, number 11, is a complete rebuild over the winter.

It was bought in October 2014

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from Darren Conway, but the only thing that still remains the same is the rollcage. With an approximate build cost of around 20k for this year it’s an investment for the long term future with aspirations for a title challenge in a year or two - but he’d be more than happy with a podium or two and a top 10 final position this year while he

develops the car further with his family team and friends.

“With the great grid size and growing numbers of competitors and spectators the action can only get better for Mini Se7en racing,” says Budd. That’s why he doesn’t want to be racing anywhere else, but when it’s in your blood why would you want to...?

www.mini7.com website refresh The Mini Se7en Racing Club website www.mini7.com - has been beautifully refreshed and updated by our resident tech guru and early Miglia title challenger Mark Cowan.

I’m sure all of you will agree he has done a great job and everything looks much more pleasing to the eye with more up-to-date goodies such as Twitter updates, videos and photo galleries from our regular snapper Matt Barrington - as well as the latest news and links to social media stuff. Go visit it!

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Pit & Paddock

April 2015 Issue 2

Mini Se7en News ZANDVOORT SPECIAL INVITATION RACE OCTOBER 3-4, 2015

G

ood news, we have been invited to race at the world famous, ex home of the Dutch Grand Prix. Zandvoort is a quick and demanding circuit and it’s part of the “British Race Festival meeting”. www.britishracefestival.nl The invitation for the Mini 7 Racing Club extends to two races in a British Saloon car (Escorts, MG, Austin Healey’s, Rover, etc) All comers race.

The two 20 minute races will be on the Sunday with two 20 minute qualifying sessions on the Saturday. To compete you will need a MSA National A or higher licence. Scrutineering will be comparable with the MSA scrutineering, so if your car and race gear complies with the MSA National

BONUS

From the club’s point of view, this race represents another end of season bonus (don’t forget the 50 plate at the end of October at Snetterton) and can scratch the itch that some may love to go racing overseas at an amazing circuit with no entry fees.

If successful, we would like to build this event into our 2016 calendar as a full Championship round, thus to have some members provide direct feedback would be very helpful. Can we get a merry band together and show the Europeans our amazing club and cars?

So far, over 10 drivers have registered their interest, the majority being Sevens….to register your interest email colinmpeacock@hotmail.co.uk

A safety rules you are allowed to race in Holland.

The organisers realise that there will be travel costs for you to get to this meeting so have waived the entry fees, so to repeat - there will be NO entry fees for this event. The organisers have also made available some seaside cottages at a very good rate for those not staying in the back of your vans! (http://www.centerparcs.nl/nl-nl/nederland/ fp_ZV_vakantiepark-park-zandvoort/cottages)

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April 2015 Issue 2

DUNLOP MINI SE7EN & MINI MIGLIA CHALLENGE supported by MINI SPARES

Race Report Round 1 Castle Combe April 6, 2015

Under starters orders www.mbracephotography.co.uk

WORDS: Tom Bonnington

The

MINI SE7EN: RACE 1 re were several teething problems for a few teams for the first meeting after the winter break. Ashley Davies was struggling with his setup in qualifying after a rebuild which led to him pulling out from the race; while Ross Billison ended qualifying early with a leaking clutch hose.

The packed grid got away to a clean start and was very close for the whole race - top five neck and neck even at the end, just over a second between

them. The front group were chopping and changing places most of the race but Darren Thomas maintained the lead for most of it.

The safety car was out for three laps after Thomas and Hunter had a scuffle which bunched the whole field up.

This led to a great scramble when it went in on lap 6 and Paul Spark took 2nd at Quarry after being four-abreast going around.

qualifying lap time so started from the back of the grid, but it didn't cause too many problems for him though as after lap 1 he was up 11 places and gaining fast. He was eventually fighting for second place, on the outside of the final corner, but lost out by just 0.03 seconds.

The S Class was won by Ian Deviny, 13th place overall and two places above his rival Shaun Tarlton.

MINI SE7EN ROUND 1 RESULT

Andrew Deviny didn't post a 1 2 3 4 5

Darren Thomas Andrew Deviny Paul Spark Graeme Davis Jabez Dyer

Fastest lap Andrew Deviny (S Class) Ian Deviny Quick Links

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1.25.032 1.27.017 7

Pit & Paddock

April 2015 Issue 2

DUNLOP MINI SE7EN & MINI MIGLIA CHALLENGE supported by MINI SPARES

Race Report Round 1 Castle Combe April 6, 2015

Bouncing bomb causes mayhem WORDS: Tom Bonnington

Tee

MINI MIGLIA: RACE 1 thing problems also appeared for several teams again after the winter in the Miglias and with short or no testing time before this weekend engine trouble struck for Dave Drew and gearbox issues for Briscal - spilling oil all over the track in qualifying and never making it back out, while Gary Warburton was struggling with brakes.

A good start from the line kept everyone in order with Rupert Deeth in the lead from the start and keeping it that way for the whole race - a head start to the season!

Tristen Knight hit the tyre Quick Links

wall during qualifying and snapped the steering rack and CV joint, they managed to gather the required parts but was unfortunately unable to repair it in time for either race.

Kane Astin lost a headlight in a scuffle for first at Quarry but the bouncing bomb took out the radiator of Mark Cowan and the windscreen of Aaron Smith.

Another very close race with Mark Cowan finishing just 0.05s behind Deeth.

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MINI MIGLIA ROUND 1 RESULT 1 2 3 4 5

Rupert Deeth Mark Cowan Kane Astin Sam Summerhayes Dan Wheeler

Invitation Class Clean racing on track getting sideways around the corners Fastest lap

by Steve Jones gave him first in Sam Summerhayes (Invitation) Steve Jones the Invitation Class.

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1.18.728 1.23.563 8

Pit & Paddock

April 2015 Issue 2

DUNLOP MINI SE7EN & MINI MIGLIA CHALLENGE supported by MINI SPARES

Race Report Round 2 Castle Combe April 6, 2015

he’s Still got that spark www.mbracephotography.co.uk

WORDS: Tom Bonnington

It

MINI SE7EN: RACE 2 was another clean getaway by all from the start line with Andrew Deviny at the back again but gaining 13 places by lap 2 - looking for another flyer of a race but that was all he managed and left the race soon after.

Darren Thomas was leading again with a good distance this time followed by Paul Spark and Max Hunter close together.

for 2nd. Eventually Thomas catches Spark and takes the outside line for 1st place at Quarry.

Unfortunately power loss means Thomas drops down the grid so close to the end and eventually takes 8th place and comes to a halt just over the finish line leaving Spark in 1st, Hunter 2nd and Dyer 3rd, with Dyer setting a new lap record for Castle Combe!

Fastest lap Jabez Dyer 1.24.002

(New Combe lap record) (S Class) Ian Deviny 1.25.674 MINI SE7EN ROUND 2 RESULT 1 2 3 4 5

Paul Spark Max Hunter Jabez Dyer Gareth Hunt Kieren McDonald

Ian Deviny takes A three-car collision at Quarry S Class fastest takes out Spencer Wanstall and lap and 1st place again this race brings out the Safety Car until comfortably in the debris and car is towed front of Tarltan away. Another tight pack has formed when the race resumes then Burrows in 3rd. and Spark is in front leaving Thomas and Selby fighting Quick Links

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April 2015 Issue 2

DUNLOP MINI SE7EN & MINI MIGLIA CHALLENGE supported by MINI SPARES

Race Report Round 2 Castle Combe April 6, 2015

Eager deeth drops down leaderboard WORDS: Tom Bonnington

www.mbracephotography.co.uk

Top

MINI MIGLA: RACE 2 quality racing from the front pack gave a great final race of the afternoon.

Another clean getaway for the second round, but Rupert Deeth was just too eager and made a jump start, costing him a 10-second penalty, but gave

him the lead on the first lap.

While he was unaware of the penalty until the end he carried on the race placing second but was unfortunately then adjusted to 9th overall.

The front three broke away from the rest of the pack and Wheeler takes the lead while Deeth and Astin fight for second bumper-to-bumper.

Unfortunately for Peacock, in 5th, his throttle jams and has to pull out of the race.

Finally joined by Summerhayes and Cowan the leading pack makes for an

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exciting finish, Astin taking the win followed by Daniel Wheeler and Summerhayes.

Fastest lap 1.19.02 MINI MIGLIA ROUND 2 RESULT 1 2 3 4 5

Kane Astin Dan Wheeler Sam Summerhayes Mark Cowan Dave Drew • Gallery • Archive

10

PROVISIONAL POINTS after Rds 1+2 2015 DUNLOP MINI SE7EN CHALLENGE supported by MINI SPARES Pos

No

Driver

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

Pts best 11

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25

35 46 23 2 37 5 3 9 90 1 4 49 73 91 6 11 97 47 7 21 93 60 92 18 63

Paul SPARK Max HUNTER Jabez DYER Darren THOMAS Gareth HUNT Kieren MCDONALD Graeme DAVIS Steve TRENCH Ian DEVINYY Andrew DEVINY Leon WIGHTMAN Ross BILLISON Spencer WANSTALL Shaun TARLTON Ashley DAVIES Charlie BUDD James BURROWS Kelvin EDGAR Julian PROCTOR Tina COOPER Roland PARSLOE Malcolm KEAT Kevin O’SHEA Lewis SELBY David ROBINSON

18 15 16 20 14 13 17 10 8 19 11 6 12 5 1 9 4 2 7 2 2 2 2 3 1

20 19 18 12 17 16 10 15 14 1 9 13 1 8 11 1 6 7 1 5 4 3 2 0 2

25 25 23

25 24 20

38 34 34 32 31 29 27 25 22 20 20 19 13 13 12 10 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 3

Invitation nc

Practiced Started Finished

1 2

Castle Combe Castle Combe

6 April 6 April

FL: A Deviny FL: J Dyer [rec]

* Invitation class not eligible for Challenge points

Pole: D Thomas Pole: D Thomas

Spax Improver: A Deviny (+23) Spax Improver: R Billison (+9)

Total

PROVISIONAL PONTS after Rds 1+2 2015 DUNLOP MINI SE7EN S-CLASS supported by MINI SPARES Pos

No

Driver

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

Pts

Total

best 11

1 2 3 4 5

90 91 97 93 92

Ian DEVINY Shaun TARLTON James BURROWS Roland PARSLOE Kevin O’SHEA

1 2

Castle Combe Castle Combe

10 8 6 5 4

6 April 6 April

10 8 6 5 4

20 16 12 10 8

S-Class FL: I Deviny S-Class FL: I Deviny

S-Class Pole: S Tarlton S-Class Pole: I Deviny

2015 MINI SE7EN NOVICE Pos

No

Driver

1

2

-

-

-

-

-

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

Pts -

Total

PROVISIONAL after Rds 1+2 2015 DUNLOP MINI MIGLIA CHALLENGE supported by MINI SPARES Pos

No

Driver

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

Pts

Total

Best 11

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13

11 99 50 85 1 29 31 55 49 4 21 77 48

Kane ASTIN Mark COWAN Dan WHEELER Sam SUMMERHAYES Rupert DEETH Dave DREW Phil DALE Michael GREEN Gary WARBURTON Colin PEACOCK Aaron SMITH Tristen KNIGHT Ian BRISCALL

18 19 16 17 20 13 11 12 10 15 14 0 0

20 17 19 18 13 16 15 14 12 1 1 0 0

nc

113

Invitation Phil HARVEY

[0]

[0]

184 157 118 101

Mini-7 Classic Steve JONES William WARD Ian CURLEY Jonathan LEWIS

[9] [8] [1] w

[11] [10] [0] w

nc nc nc nc

1 2

Practiced Started Finished Castle Combe Castle Combe

38 36 35 35 33 29 26 26 22 16 15 0 0

-

-

17 14 13 6 April 6 April

FL: S Summerhayes Pole: R Deeth FL: M Cowan Pole: M Cowan

Spax Improver: G Warburton (+4) Spax Improver: S Summerhayes (+5)

* Invitation + Mini-7 Classic not eligible for points

2015 MINI MIGLIA NOVICE Pos

No

Driver

1

2

1

48

Ian BRISCALL

0

0

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

Pts 0

Total

Pit & Paddock

April 2015 Issue 2

Photo Gallery

Castle Combe, April 6, 2015 All images copyright www.mbracephotography.co.uk

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April 2015 Issue 2 Race Entry Click here to book your entry online or download the forms.

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May 9-10 Round 3 & 4 Snetterton Norwich, Norfolk NR16 2JU 01953 887303

www.snetterton.co.uk

RACE DATES 2015 Rd 1/2 Rd 3/4 Rd 5/6 Rd 7/8 Rd 9/10 Rd 11/12 Rd 13/14 50 Plate

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April 6 Castle Combe May 9-10 Snetterton 300 May 30-31 Rockingham June 27-28 Brands Hatch Mini Festival (TV) July 25-26 Donington Park August 8 Oulton Park Mini Festival (TV) Sept 19-20 Silverstone Int’l & 50th Party (TV) Oct 31 - Nov 1 Snetterton 300

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Pit & Paddock

April 2015 Issue 2

DUNLOP MINI SE7EN & MINI MIGLIA CHALLENGE supported by MINI SPARES

Race Timetable Snetterton May 9-10, 2015

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Mini 7

Qualifying Race 1

Saturday May 9 11.10 - 11.30 14.50 - 15.10

Race 2

Sunday May 10 11.05 - 11.25

Mini Miglia

Qualifying Race 1

Saturday May 9 12.05 -12.25 16.05 -16.25

magazine

Sunday May 10 Race 2 12.15 -12.35

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Pit & Paddock

April 2015 Issue 1

From the Archives:

Snetterton Circuit 10, 20, 30, 40 years ago

WORDS: Richard Williamson PHOTOS: M7RC Archive

A delve into the M7RC Archive helps us to recap what happened over the decades at Snetterton Circuit around this time of year.

10 Years Ago

Miglia winner Peter Baldwin Photo: M7RC (Pitlane)

T

he Norfolk position and adds the tyres at venue on a in the fastest Mark Sims had an ‘off’ day Coram, sunny 19 June race lap for good Photo: M7RC Archive (Pitlane) Paul McGarry spins and on is the third-of-10 measure around Photo: M7RC Archive (Pitlane) the 1.952-mile countrounds in the 2005 back to two laps completed, Dunlop Challenge circuit.

Peter Baldwin is out in front season. A healthy 24 Mini Se7ens Closest challenger Andrew from Bill Sollis, Kelly Rogers, appear and in an entertaining Deviny eventually drops out as Andy Hack, Max Hunter (having 20-minute, 13-lapper, Champion- does his exhaust, leaving Max hopped across from his Se7en to-be Paul Thompson pulls out an Hunter to head home Geoff and then set fastest lap) and unusually large 8.8s advantage, Letts, Dave Banwell, Mickey Bray Colin Peacock, with other familiar having also taken his first pole and Paul Spark. The only novice, names including Ralph Saunders, James Coulson, comes home Mark Sims and Phil Harvey also in 11th of 15 finishers. Also in the field are the Astin brothers, the 17-car entry.

Damon and Kane, Graeme Paul Thompson won the Se7en race.

Davis, Malcolm Keat, Niv Photo: M7RC Archive (Pitlane) Burge and Ian Deviny.

Unfortunately the Miglia race late on in the day is red-flagged early after Lewis Bill Sollis ahead of Kelly Rogers Selby’s car gets nerfed into Photo: M7RC Archive (Pitlane)

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April 2015 Issue 1

From the Archives:

Snetterton Circuit 10, 20, 30, 40 years ago quickest lap. Dave Percival takes the Novice class, while names still around the Mini paddocks today include Rob Selby, Phil Manser, Mark Sims and Paul Thompson.

The first of the Miglia encounters is declared at 3 laps after the red flag is thrown, which has pole and fastest lap man Stewart Drake holding a clear lead from Bill Sollis. The latter is lucky to be classified as his gearstick had just come off in his hand, while Ian Curley, Chris Lewis, Ian Gunn and Peter Baldwin are all next in line.

The order changes around for the second race which runs its full 8 laps. Champion-elect Lewis (securing his fourth of five Miglia titles) gets the nod in this one by 1.04s from Sollis (fastest lap), sending the title chase to the final round at Silverstone a month later. The following season’s Champion, Drake, keeps up his

20 Years Ago

Se7ens midfield battle.

Photo: M7RC Archive / Ferret Fotographics (M Harvey)

T

here are two visits to Norfolk for the M7RC, the first meeting hosted by the BARC over the 9-10 September weekend; double-headers counting towards rounds 14+15 of the 16-round Unipart-DCM Challenge In the first of the Mini Se7en races, which saw a 30-car entry, Mike Jackson starts from pole position and after a ding-dong battle among half-a-dozen challengers regains the lead when it mattered, crossing the line after 8 laps, ahead of Dave Braggins. The latter however picks up a time penalty which drops him to fourth behind Tim Sims who sets the fastest lap, and Steve Bell moves up to third. Shaun King and Matt Hayman complete the top six, while younger brother

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James Hayman is first Novice home and goes on to take the Novice title.

With the second race grid based on the results of the first race, Jackson again leads away from pole and emerges with a double helping of maximum points (still 10 for a win back then) to secure a second National title.

Bell gets within 2.54s by the chequered flag, closely followed

by Braggins, T Sims, M Hayman and Mickey Miglias at the chicane. Ph Bray, with King oto: M7RC Archive / Ferret Fotogrpahics (M in seventh Harvey) setting the

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April 2015 Issue 1

From the Archives:

Snetterton Circuit 10, 20, 30, 40 years ago

Myk Cable’s Mini Spares-backed car Photo: M7RC Archive / Ferret Fotogrpahics (M Harvey) impressive form to take third, with Baldwin, Gunn and Mick Best next up. Also in the 22-car entry are former Champ Myk Cable in his usual Mini Spares-backed car, and the year’s top Miglia

RC Archive Dave Braggins. Photo: M7 Harvey) / Ferret Fotographics (M

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novice, David Lawrence, despite not finishing either race.

The M7RC returns on 19 November for the penultimate round of the 6-round UnipartDCM Winter Challenge, an event hosted by the BRSCC (East Anglia), and 19 cars start the combined 10-lapper. Peter Baldwin leads the 2x2 grid away but after continual placeswapping, Wayne Grayer (nowadays helping run Ashley Davies in Mini Se7ens) out-drags the ‘Mini master’ to the line by a scant 0.01s to warm the chilled

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onlookers. Baldwin would pip Grayer to the Winter title by a single point.

Bob Humphreys is third Miglia home while best of the Se7ens is Steve Bell in seventh overall from Matt Hayman, with the same winning margin of 0.01s!

Robert Cullum is third Se7en from class polesitter and class Winter Champion, Dave Braggins. Grayer and Bell set fastest Miglia and Se7en laps respectively too. Of minor note further back, a certain Richard Williamson finishes 17th, albeit last-but-one…

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19

Pit & Paddock

April 2015 Issue 1

From the Archives:

Snetterton Circuit 10, 20, 30, 40 years ago

T

wo events take place at Snetterton on the then 1.917-mile layout, with Russell Corner a very fast kink before it becomes a chicane in later years. Both BARC-run event programmes have the Minis gracing the front covers too!

The first meet, on a dry but overcast 1 September, and round 12-of-15 of the National Challenges, produces a typical door handle-to-door handle, panel-rubbing, 12-lap 850cc Mini Se7en race. The result is a 0.1s win for Chris Tyrrell from Russell Grady, the pair of them swapping the lead throughout. Gary Hall gets closest to the leading duo, with James Hulme, Mike Jackson and Ralph Budd (father of 2015 Se7en debutant Charlie) completing the top half-dozen.

Thirteen of the 17 starters finish and Tyrrell not only sets pole position but the fastest lap too.

In the 1000cc Miglias, reigning Champion Mike Fry starts from pole and finally breaks the tow

30 Years Ago

to Gerald Dale on the last lap when they encounter backmarkers, taking his sixth national win of the season on his way to Chris Tyrrell leads Russell Grady retaining his Photo: M+A Jackson Collection title in the Mini Sparesmove up into top spot, including backed car. Dale sets the fastest fastest lap, from Comber and a lap, while Bev Comber leads the closing Graham Chivers. rest, with Peter Calver, top Novice Jones again finishes near to the Mark Jones and David Brookes frontrunners, in fourth, ahead next up of nine finishers from 13 of Calver and Brookes, while starters.

‘Ballymena Kid’ Sean Tierney’s Onto the Challenge finale on challenge in one of the notorious 20 October, and in a combined 69 Club team cars ended when 8-lapper for both classes, this he spins and is collected by time polesitter Fry is destined not Dave Hancock. to finish when a rocker breaks, Meanwhile, further back allowing Dale to Grady cements his first Mini

Se7en title with class victory by a comfortable 5.0s, including a new fastest lap of 1:26.5 (79.78mph average), ahead of a manically squabbling pack comprising Peter Colin Rodger in the wars Kavanagh, Tyrrell, tion Photo: M+A Jackson Collec Jackson, Dave ‘Goody’ Goodridge and Danny Boulton, all of them unlapped by the Miglias, with leading novice Bill Sollis eighth of 10 finishers from Miglia lead battle; Mike Fry heads Gerald Dale Bev Comber avoids the spinning Sean Tierney 12 starters.

Photo: M+A Jackson Collection Photo: M+A Jackson Collection

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Pit & Paddock

April 2015 Issue 1

From the Archives:

Snetterton Circuit 10, 20, 30, 40 years ago

N

o less than six Snetterton dates are 40 Years on the M7RC calendar, Ago three for the National Challenges, three for the south eastern-based TEAC Mini-7 series, and all of them 10-lappers.

The West Essex Car Club (WECC) hosts the fourth-of-19 National rounds on 27 April, a wet morning practice drying for the afternoon races. The 850cc Mini Se7ens get the ball rolling on the 1.917-mile circuit (twice altered in 1974 from the previous 2.71-mile layout), and Ex Miglia running as Special Saloon from a field of 22 cars, Graham Photo: E Groves Collection / Ferret Fotographics (F Scatley) Wenham scores his fourth victory on the trot to establish what A-Series tuner, Steve Harris, and Champion-to-be Alan Curnow would become a title-winning Keith Padmore, who nowadays taking the final podium position points lead. Wenham is 3.4s has the occasional run out in from Kevin Johnston, Padmore to the good over 1972 Champ historic Mini circles. and Derek May. Pole winner Reg Armstrong, with pole man It’s the turn of the Romford John Hazell is one of three DNFs John West, Graham ‘Gramps’ Enthusiasts’ Car Club (RECC) on from a 14-car grid.

Woskett, Chris Maries and Jim 18 May to host rounds 6 of the The London Car Club combine Mancey topping the leaderboard.

National Challenges. Wenham with RECC to run the eighth Wenham also sets a new lap takes win number five from rounds of the Nationals on record of 1:29.4 (77.19mph). pole position, just 0.6s ahead of 8 June, both races titled the In the Miglias, reigning Champ future F3 racer Terry Pudwell, ‘Ripspeed Trophy’. Wenham’s Russell Dell’s Ripspeed-backed from Bob Addison, Mancey, Mini Se7en title charge is in car cleans up with pole position, reigning Champ Chris Tyrrell and full swing by now, with pole race victory and a new fastest Andy Devine. Seventh placed position and a relatively large lap of 1:24.8 (81.38mph). Mike Alan Corbishley lowers the class 1.8s winning margin. Mancey, Curnow stands in for brother lap record again with a 1:28.2 Devine, Tyrrell, Addison and Tim Alan in a Longman-tuned car to (78.24mph).

Guest are the leading chasers. collect 9 points for second, with Dell again triumphs in the Dick Williams sets the quickest Mike Pilgrim, Martin Harrison, Miglia section, holding off Harris race lap although only 13 of the Phil Spurling (Oselli) and John by just 0.2s at flagfall, the latter 25 starters finish.

Bradburn (Aldon) ahead of four also lowering the class lap record The 17-car Miglia grid is other finishers from a grid of to 1:23.2 (82.95mph), with boosted by four over-subscribed 14. Also in the entry is another

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Pit & Paddock

April 2015 Issue 1

From the Archives:

Snetterton Circuit 10, 20, 30, 40 years ago

Mini Se7ens, early 70s style Photo: A Seekings Collection Mini Se7ens, and Dell completes a hat-trick of Snetterton wins, from Harris, M Curnow, Bradburn, Spurling and Pilgrim, while Harris and Curnow share fastest lap honours, and four Migs retire.

The separate Thames Estuary Automobile Club (TEAC)-run Mini-7 series comprises 9 rounds, three of which are at Snetterton.

The first on 13 April is won

by Alan Corbishley from Bob

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Addison and Terry Pudwell, after pole-sitter and new fastest lap setter (1:29.6), Chris Tyrrell goes off when battling for the lead.

Five months later on 14 September (round 6) Wenham scores one of five series wins that see him take a second title, with pole-sitter Addison and Andy Devine completing the podium.

The real story of this event however, is the flooded track, and coned-off sections of tarmac.

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It’s remarkable that nine of the 14 starters make it to the finish!

Wenham is a country mile ahead at the end of the 19 October race (the penultimate round), and Martin Moorhead and Addison are his nearest rivals from an entry of twodozen, some 12+ seconds down the road. Pudwell sets the quickest qualifying time but is a non-starter due to a gearbox glitch.

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Pit & Paddock

April 2015 Issue 2

Know your rival Mini 7 Racing Club drivers

Mini Se7en 1 Andrew Deviny 3 Graeme Davis 4 Leon Wightman 5 Kieren McDonald 6 Ashley Davies 7 Julian Proctor 9 Steve Trench 11 Charlie Budd 18 Lewis Selby 21 Tina Cooper 23 Jabez Dyer 35 Paul Spark 37 Gareth Hunt 44 Adam Smith 46 Max Hunter 47 Kelvin Edgar 60 Malcolm Keat 63 Dave Robinson 73 Spencer Wanstall

Driver SOCOMEC Driver Big Mac Racing SMG Motorsport Roonspeed SJT Racing/Floss-a-lot Pristine Condition Selby Motorsport Driver Driver A+ Racing Driver A L Motorsport Hunters Garage Kelsport Driver Kat7Racing.co.uk Driver

Mini Se7en s class 90 Ian Deviny 91 Shaun Tarlton

92 Kevin O Shea 93 Roland Parsloe 97 James Burrows

Driver Shaun Tarlton Racing Driver Driver Altered Image

Mini Miglia 1 Rupert Deeth

4 Colin Peacock 11 Kane Astin 21 Aaron Smith 29 David Drew 31 Phil Dale 48 Ian Bristoll 49 Gary Warburton 50 Daniel Wheeler 55 Michael Green 77 Tristen Knight

85 Sam Summerhayes

99 Mark Cowan

Team Deeth Racing Mondo Sport Driver AAA Racing Driver Driver Driver Driver Driver Driver Wenden Garage Racing Lodway Service Station Baldwin Motorsport

Invitation 111 Jonathan Lewis 157 William Ward 113 Phil Harvey 184 Steve Jones

Driver Driver Motley Mini 1300 Dale Racing

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Pit & Paddock

JOIN THE CLUB

M

April 2015 Issue 2

ISSUE

01 June 2013

The Official

I s s ue 0 1 / 1 2

Newsletter of

The Official Monthly

The Mini Se7en Racing Club

ini 7 is not just a racing series, it’s a club. It’s where like-minded people, just like you can socialise and get to know each other, chat cars and Minis and find people who just get it.

You don’t need to be a racer to join the club, and if racing is something you’re just getting involved in, then this is a great way to learn from and chat to the pros.

Contacts Mike Jackson

0121 707 5881 i7.co.uk mike.jackson@min

Jeff Carter

07969 157921 o.uk jeff.carter@mini7.c

Jamie Snelling 07814 726270

Matt Barrington 07756 712333

Supporters The Mini 7 Racing Supporters Club enables fans of Mini racing to belong to the Mini 7 Racing Club without the need to join as a racing

Newsletter of the Mini

7 Racing Club

E NT RI E S O P EN The entry form for the Motors TV event at Castle Combe on Monday 7 May is now available and it is requested that all racing members intending to participate get their entries in as soon as possible.

O 20 13 F LY ING S T AR T T

Mini s as usual for the It’s been busines as this year’s Se7en Racing Club got off to a roaring championships and 1 at Donington start. With Round under at Rockingham Round 2 & 3 has well and truly season the belts our t with it all the begun, and brough action we exys hard fought sidewa

to selong way to go that he’s got a of ionship, and cure the champ the never discount course you can Peter 6-time winner experience of

The Mini 7 Racing Club has bought the grid and we need to know the numbers as

Baldwin.

a few brought with it 2013 has also way that changes in the

Chairman’s Chat

been an all Kane In the Miglias it’s from three victories Astin affair so far; in him very much three outings leave from performances control. But good Tristen Knight show and Aaron Smith

ni- Sponsor commuNew M7RC off and teams, startingThe Next Events cate with fans Read look newsletter. with this new Club Bulletin else we’re doing on to find out what Europe’s longest to make sure that ls to series appeaNews make single running everybody.

Race Reports Championship Table This Issue

You can online at

 

you

2 3 4

6

The 2012 season got off to a great start with two action packed races in the spring sunshine at Oulton Park in Cheshire. A large crowd was treated to two typically Mini 10 lap encounters with ac-

7

download the entry form from the website and pay Mike Jackson at Donington Park next weekend. You can pay right up to the event on the 7 May but we request that you don’t leave it to the last minute.

enter 

It is going to be a great event and its going to be on TV.

can

C RAC K I NG S TA RT

INSIDE THIS ISSU E

As of Round 3 it’s , lead of the Se7ens Paul Spark in the Donny and placed having won at Rockingham races. strongly in both ent from the threestatem It’s a strong who will be looking time champion, in on the board to put early points consecutive title. pursuit of his fourth

soon as possible.

We also need to make sure the TV commentators have an accurate entry list ahead of the event so driver profiles can be prepared. Remember this is LIVE TV!

Or

pect.

A pr i l 2 0 1 2

TO

tion all the way from start to finish.

In the Mini Se7ens, reigning champion Paul Spark crossed the line to take the first chequered flag of the year.

In the Miglia en-

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FOR

201 2

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counter 2010 Champion Paul Thompson took pole position and then led from start to finish to claim his first victory since Spa last year.

FULL RACE REPORTS ON PAGES 8 AND 9

8 11

Contacts ham Reports Doning ton & Rocking Mike Jackson Modern isers 0121 707 5881 Meet the Mini Se7en mike.jackson s @mini7.co.uk Photo Gallerie

s and Archive Jeff Carter Upcomi ng Events

07969 157921 jeff.carter@mini7.co.uk

member.

For an annual fee of just £20 for UK members and £25 for International Members, Mini 7 Racing Supporters Club members will enjoy a range of benefits and exclusive offers.

Racers To race with the Mini 7 Racing Club you must be a Racing Member. At £195 per season this represents great value for money.

In addition to being able to race with the Club, Racing Members also receive the same benefits as Supporters Club members - access to the members forum, club discounts, voting at the AGM and much more.

Member Benefits • • • • • •

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Exclusive M7R Supporters Club car sticker Exclusive Supporters Club competitions Access to Members-only forum Discount on M7RC sponsors’ products Invitation to M7RC social events Able to purchase tickets for M7RC awards

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Pit & Paddock

April 2015 Issue 2

Roll of Honour The Champions YEAR Mini Se7en Mini Miglia

2014 Andrew Deviny Rupert Deeth 2013 Andrew Deviny Peter Baldwin 2012 Paul Spark Peter Baldwin 2011 Paul Spark Endaf Owens 2010 Paul Spark Paul Thompson 2009 Kane Astin Andy Hack 2008 Paul Thompson Andy Hack 2007 Max Hunter Andy Hack 2006 Andrew Deviny Bill Sollis 2005 Paul Thompson Peter Baldwin 2004 James Hall Peter Baldwin 2003 Tim Sims Peter Baldwin 2002 Tim Sims Chris Lewis 2001 Tim Sims Peter Baldwin 2000 Dave Braggins Peter Baldwin 1999 Dave Braggins Ian Curley 1998 Matt Hayman Ian Curley 1997 Steve Bell Bill Sollis 1996 Phil Manser Stewart Drake 1995 Mike Jackson Chris Lewis 1994 Ian Curley Chris Lewis 1993 Tina Cooper Ian Gunn 1992 Mike Jackson Myk Cable 1991 Bill Sollis Myk Cable 1990 Bill Sollis Owen Hall 1989 Steve Cooper Myk Cable 1988 Malcolm Joyce Russell Grady 1987 Chris Tyrell Russell Grady 1986 Chris Tyrell Russell Grady 1985 Russell Grady Mike Fry

1984 1983 1982 1981 1980 1979 1978 1977 1976 1975 1974 1973 1972 1971 1970 1969 1968 1967 1966

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YEAR Mini Se7en Mini Miglia

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Chris Gould Mike Fry Chris Gould Chris Lewis Gerald Dale Chris Lewis Gary Hall Chris Hampshire Jonathan Lewis Roland Nix Patrick Watts Phil Spurling Steve Hall Phil Spurling Martin Goodall Paul Gaymer Graham Wenham Mike Curnow Graham Wenham Alan Curnow Chris Tyrell Russell Dell Mick Moss Phil Spurling Reg Armstrong Mick Osborne Graham Wenham Len Brammer Len Brammer Mick Osborne Paul Gaymer Mick Osborne Bob Fox Bob Fox

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Pit & Paddock

April 2015 Issue 2

Club Contacts CHAIRMAN Nick Cooke E: nick.cooke@mini7.co.uk COMMERCIAL MANAGER Colin Peacock E: colin.peacock@mini7.co.uk TREASURER Jeffrey Parish E: jeffrey.parish@mini7.co.uk CHAMPIONSHIP CO-ORDINATOR Richard Williamson E: richard.williamson@mini7.co.uk COMPETITION MANAGER Mike Jackson E: mike.jackson@mini7.co.uk Membership Secretary Jacquie Martin E: membership@mini7.co.uk

M7RC NEWSLETTER EDITORIAL TEAM Editor Craig McBeth editor@love-mini.co.uk Photos Matthew Barrington www.mbracephotography.co.uk Words Richard Williamson richard.williamson@mini7.co.uk Reporter Thomas Bonnington SPONSORS

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PRESS OFFICER Craig McBeth E: editor@love-mini.co.uk

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