First of all a big thanks for the warm welcome yesterday!
I needed a break when I stopped, but after doing this every week for 5 years, I must admit it felt very weird not having a weekly race to prepare for. Quickly found something else to waste the saved time on though
Was surprised to find I didn't miss the racing all that much, but did miss you guys, the forum and the amusing race reports. Could still sneak past for a peek and read them, but not quite the same when you're not part of it yourself.
Anyway, the Targa race was one I had looked forward to at the beginning of the season, so wanted to at least do this. A bit rusty since I hadn't touched GTL since stopping, so needed a fair bit of practice. Surprisingly I could still remember many bits of the track after my intensive training last year - despite my memory being more akin to Swiss cheese these days.. Tried all the cars. Quickly dropped the Ferrari: it was nice enough early in the lap, but horribly uneven front/rear tyre wear made it more and more difficult to handle as the lap wore on. The Aston I found the hardest to drive here, without being the quickest, so didn't fancy that one either. Was between the Healey & Merc then. Liked both, but really love driving the Merc, was a little bit quicker in it and prefer the sound, providing you pick the right car. Dom, I believe you had one of the quiet ones. Try mine or Kurt's, if you care about the engine noise - it will be a revelation!
Very sorry that so many had problems - not least Roger & Clive, who didn't even get a chance to drive. Eased past Tony after the start and set about chasing Geoffers. He quickly let me past, and I just had time to think "Ah, that's very kind of you Geoff", when it hit me like a bolt of lightning: "He's surmised there's a better chance I'll wreck my car if I'm let loose, instead of following a more cautious driver!!" A most devious scheme that almost succeeded, as I did have a few close calls, and blunted a front wing on a wall late in the race. Joking aside, it was very kind of you Geoffers, but I would have been perfectly happy having to try for a real pass somewhere
Grats to Dom & Fulvio for filling the podium and commiserations to all who met with misfortune & problems. Dom: you're way too kind - I'm certainly no Targa expert; just too stupid not to try pushing it, and occasionally I get away with it
After the warm reception, it would almost be rude not to give it another go, so I'll try to tune in again next week