Apologies to Al, for getting him involved in my hedge trimming. My screen went blank as I clipped the greenery and no amount of pounding the escape button would release me from the game.
I had promised myself that I would play safe in this race and drive for a finish, just to test that my Pc was back under control.
but.......... well you know how it is when the adrenaline kicks in and the competitive bug bites???
I found myself jumping up to 3rd off the grid tucked up behind Al's big Brab. I soon had Raoni snapping at my heels and knew that I could go faster if only I could squeeze past Al. But there are very few opportunities around Nurby and Al was taking all the right lines.
Tris was getting away in front and one or two quick glances at Prib showed that Hristo and one or two other fast boys were coming up behind.
To be honest I was keen to get myself some clear tarmac and settle into my own rhythm, because Al's braking and acceleration points were totally different to mine and although I tried to anticipate his moves I was having to run wide to avoid his gearbox far too often.
I thought that I had blown my chance of a pass on the straight when I made a small error and dropped back. I knew that I could close the gap again even if it was into lap 2 somewhere and simply nailed the go pedal for the straight. I was frankly amazed as the slipstream reeled in Al's car at a tremendous rate and I honestly did think 2 or 3 times about going for the pass. But the speed differential was so great that I was almost forced to make the move
. I thought I had made a perfect pass, but looking in one's mirrors when you should be concentrating on avoiding the grass verge reaps its own rewards and........
What could have been a good race was cut rather short. I confess that I have lacked any proper concentration for many races lately and have paid the price with too many stupid mistakes. With that and my computer probs I have probably screwed up this seasons chances but heck it is still fun.
Grats to Al. I am relieved that you were able to continue, and to the other finishers.