From the Cliffe Face

Tristan has sent a copy of his press release to Startline. It not only gives a flavour of the race but it's also an excellent example of the soprt of release that the local papers (and some of the national mags) like. If you have a release, why not send it to us?

It doesn't mention that the Cliffe team of Omicron were responsible for one of the most important features of the paddock - the Mono Tea Pavilion. After the old awning got damaged at Mallory, Omicron kindly stepped in.

Release begins:

Oulton Park, Cheshire - 11 September 2010

Mulbarton racer Tristan Cliffe returned to the top step of the podium with victory at Cheshire's Oulton Park circuit, on only his second visit to the venue. Cliffe started the race from 2nd on the grid after a damp qualifying session was effectively ended early after a few cars ended up in the gravel traps, speeds reduced near these stranded cars with waved yellow flags. Title rival and championship leader Jeremy Timms was on pole position with Ray Rowan slotting his car in 3rd place.

With heavy showers throughout the day, no-one was entirely sure whether to choose dry weather slicks or wet weather tyres, with some gambling with wets, but most drivers chose slicks. When the race started it was Cliffe who got the perfect start as his side of the track had dried much quicker and Timms battled with traction off the line. Timms soon closed the gap and the two front runners dominated the race, trading fastest laps and quickly established a 25 second lead over the squabble for 3rd place

Drama happened on the penultimate lap of the race when Cliffe made a small mistake causing him to spin. Timms took avoiding action and also spun with both cars ending up on the grass with stalled engines. Cliffe managed to restart his car and rejoined the track before loosing the lead, but sadly Timms couldn't get his car started and had to retire.Cliffe then cruised round to take his 2nd victory of the year, with triple champion Mark Harrison in2nd place and Malcolm Scott promoted to third after Ray Rowan was given a 10 second penalty for jumping the start.

After the podium ceremony, Cliffe said "It was hard work keeping Jeremy behind me in tricky conditions, and I nearly threw it all away with a small mistake. Fortunately our car starts easily when hot, so I could continue. This has really helped my championship chances, but he still has the upper hand."

The next race is at Croft circuit in Yorkshire on the 25th and 26th September.

Ends.

Tristan passes Jeremy at the start

Racing was close

Pix by Norwich Photo