27/08/2018
“Marquee Marathon”
The SEKQld Marquee Round presented our longest race of the season. 12 hours, 18 stops, 3 drivers. The Marquee round at Ipswich Kart Club was not only a test of physical shape, but a major mechanical challenge. The karts were both dialled in relatively well in practice, and qualifying saw both do short stints, to secure 6th (73) and 8th (7) on the grid.
Race start produced an exciting first 10 laps, with 73 right in the battle pack, spending some time inside the top 3. As things settled down the 73 settled into 6th, with the 7 close behind. Pit changes ran smoothly for both teams, and the strategies were playing themselves out well. Whilst awaiting the predicted rain, all 3 drivers in number 7 were super consistent and the kart came on stronger as the race went on. However sitting in a clear 5th place, they had a seat mount snap, which ensued the other to work its way loose. A swift stop was undertaken to rectify the situation, but crucial time was lost, setting them back to 8th.
After some early biff and barge that saw the 73 pushed off the fastest part of the track, the team settled in and drove the kart consistently and efficiently. Effort in preparation could clearly be seen with no mechanicals until the second last lap, where a rear bar let go. A quick stop to fix the issue allowed the line to be crossed in a very respectable 5th place. 7 showed their true pace to drive back up to 7th place, hunting down 6th but running out of time.
Finishing close to 10pm, both karts performed admirably, and everybody worked well as a team to finish this marathon. This race really was a war of attrition, and takes a toll on the body for the few days following. Onwards and upwards bring on our next round, where we will try to capitalise on the reliability we have found, and match it with pace!
As always thanks must got to our sponsors, who without we would not be here:
- Colonial Patios & Carports
- Norris Motor Group
- HobbsDrive