Harewood is the longest hillclimb course in the UK and as a result, always attracts a full entry of competitors. This year was no exception and this always demonstrates the excellent organisational skills of the BARC Yorkshire to keep the event running like clockwork.

This year we welcomed Simon Clarke to the event for the first time  –  Simon could recall spectating in his youth but he was now sharing the paddock with dad Paul, the Baileys, George Proudfoot, Paul Bryan and Simon Baines.

The weather forecast for the day was mixed with a chance of rain at some stage so it would be important to make the most of every run.

The 1^st practice runs went without drama for everyone although there was a degree of caution as the track was still lacking grip from the previous day’s torrential rain.

The 1^st timed run would see everyone getting down to business and this brought out an early red flag as Chris Bailey had a gravelly moment at Orchard Corner. Simon Clarke was another to test the limits with a slightly grassy moment at the tricky blind Country Corner. Leader after the 1^st run was Simon B with Paul C in a close 2^nd position.

Due to a number of delays, the organisers called an early lunch break so that we hopefully enjoy a busier afternoon.

During the lunch break, a number of SpeedMoggers attended a final laying to rest of Nigel Housley’s ashes at Orchard Corner. Nigel was a long standing loyal member of SpeedMog, competing a modified 4/4. Nigel was at his happiest when competing on hillclimbs and he considered Harewood to be amongst his favourites.

After lunch it was time to get back to business with rain clouds visible in the distance. Clearly these didn’t distract Chris who, after his earlier red flag moment, put in a great recovery drive to take the lead and demote Simon B to 2^nd, despite him finding another 0.1 seconds. There were improvements from most runners despite the double drives – Michele B and Simon Clarke – getting caught by a rain shower. Paul Bryan was struggling with a misfire that wasn’t showing any signs of improving.

Timed Run 3 was another improvement from Chris now putting 1^st place out of reach for anyone else. Simon B managed to get into the 69’s with 3^rd place Paul Clarke also improving. Michele B recorded her best time of the day with a time 2 seconds quicker than her previous time. Simon Clarke had another “more” grassy moment at Country Corner with a full spin but he kept going and recorded a time.

A 4^th timed run was promised but due to an oil spillage that resulted in a lengthy delay and cement dust to be laid over the majority of the course, all but the Clarkes decided to call it a day. Despite this, Simon C recorded his fastest time of the day, another great recovery drive after a “busy” day.

Harewood never fails to deliver and this was no exception, a great day, great competition and great company.