The most memorable Rally I have ever attended was the R.A.C Rally of 2010.
The Roger Albert Clark has always been one of my favourite Rallys, full of historics attracting some amazing talent, some from overseas.
I have attended the R.A.C as a Spectator and more recently a Photographer. On this particular year, myself and three friends decided to venture to the Woodyard at Dalby Forrest to see the first stages of the Four Day event.
We did not however, take note of the Severe Weather Conditions which were predicted and set out in the snow for the 50 mile journey. Journey uneventful, we arrived in the Car Park and walked the track down to the Yard which proved treacherous with snow at some points reaching over our wellies.
The Atmosphere in the Woodyard was epic, the hollowed area between the gigantic trees being floodlit, lines and lines of Spectators lining the trees as they creaked eerily with the weight of the snow.
We waited in anticipation, fighting off the biting cold which I believe was -17 degrees. The roar of of the first car echoed through the tree's as it approached the Woodyard downhill, each rev of the engine amplified through the snow. The headlights penetrated the dark as the car slid down and through the Yard, revving high, struggling for grip. As the car approached the Hairpin, a touch of brake sent it sliding uncontrollably round the apex and to a complete halt as it span its rear wheels, searching for the gravel beneath the snow.
The Mk2 Escort exited the Woodyard with a hazardous crawl, churning out some incredible exhaust notes as it bounced off the rev limiter.
Car after Car entered the Woodyard in this formidable fashion, until the snow flakes returned to fall as predicted. At first the snow came light with no real threat, but soon blizzard conditions soon developed, snow falling heavy on the already ice covered track.
The track soon became treacherous, many cars sliding into the borders on entry.
At this point we decided to bail ourselves, the 50 mile journey taking four and a half hours.
Despite this, the 2010 R.A.C Rally shall stay in my memories forever, the true stomach tingling spirit of Rally was definitely felt that night.
Chris Maw
Memory added on June 25, 2012
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