Summerbell’s machine – TA-1-invades Mobay!

A few years ago, there was a powerful Dover racing team known as Team Mobay Racing. The name would drive fear into the hearts of many competitors, some who possibly would not be man enough to admit it today.

The team had the 1.6 mile, adventure laden track at Dover Raceway, on what, some people would refer to as ‘lock-down’! If you were not in their good graces you were not allowed to share in the spoils of victory.

I can recall ego-crushing occasions, when even ‘King’ David Summerbell Jr was reduced to an also-ran, plagued with ailments stemming from underperforming machines. At one stage, the ‘King’, known for his humility, even sought advice from his arch-rival ‘Hollywood’ when he was trying to creep his way back to the throne.

The ‘King’s’ frustration only ended when acting on his friend’s approval (Stephen Gunter), he purchased the ‘shock and awe’ machine known affectionately as TA-1. The Caribbean has not been the same since. The ‘King’ sped swiftly through the region and collected all the silverware that was on offer.

Team Mobay Racing’s top brass was not amused. The team’s head honcho – Doug ‘Hollywood’ Gore went soul searching. The star in him could not settle for a dimmed spotlight. He searched far, he searched wide and after consulting with a Junior from the ‘Hatman’s’ gene pool, he introduced a hammer to a matchbox! A DTM Audi TT-R was given a new home in upscale St James.

Our lives, like the Caribbean, have not been the same since! This must be what the older generation refer to as the glory days! The rivalry which ensued between the two giants of Jamaican motorsports has prompted intense, tension-laden, but insanely exciting moments at the track.

‘Hollywood’ is ready for the 2013 season. His appearance at Jamwest, at the Circuit Attack event confirmed that his machine is ready.

‘Hollywood’ at Jamwest.

Machine being prepped for record breaking laps.

‘Hollywood’ preparing to ‘sequentially’ destroy the lap record!

TA-1, based on reports, has undergone a complete rebuild. I spoke to Stephen Gunter recently and if what he said is accurate, there should be no more hidden gremlins in TA-1′s armor for 2013 – hopefully! He also told me that the first public showing of TA-1 was scheduled for a TOTAL service station (gas station) in Montego Bay.

It didn’t occur to me at the time, but isnt Mobay the home of Doug ‘Hollywood’ Gore and by extension the home of the 2013 DTM Audi TT-R? Why would TOTAL want the first public appearance of the machine to be on ‘Hollywood’s’ verandah? Whatever the thought process, one thing is certain – TA-1 invaded Mobay yesterday (Friday)! Do not listen to the politically correct statements of denial – the message is clear – (say the next 4-5 words in a loud voice) ‘Hollywood’ – TA-1 is ready!

PS – Stephen, let me know when I can take a few pics of the ‘new’ machine! The Audi is leading in the pics department!

Cecil Munroe Gleaner On-Line Writer