Circuit Racing : Heroes of Speed – The Final Stand!

I must admit that October is not my favorite month of the year. A lot of the motor racing that I enjoy comes to a close at about this time. As a result of winter in North America and Europe, two  of my preferred racing series, Formula One and MotoGP are winding down in October (both have a few rounds remaining).I find it interesting that in Jamaica, a country which has one distinct season – summer, the circuit racing season comes to a close in October as well (possibly adopting the Formula 1 format).I am disgruntled because I would want the season to run a bit longer, but I can hear the voices of objection echoing away as they attempt to justify why I will not see ‘new’ circuit racing action until March /  April of  2010! Despite my yet to materialize dejection, which usually sets in, in November, after the seasons have ended, racing is still on the cards, at least for now, at a very special location, Dover Raceway in St.Ann

Final Round

The nation’s Mecca of circuit racing will arise to the thunderous sounds of the invading army of 4 /6 cylinder battle prepped warriors, known as race-cars. These fuel ingesting, rubber shredding creations of minds fed by speed and addicted to air generated by turbo chargers, will express themselves in boisterous tones, bringing an alien but, fun inducing experience to the hills of St.Ann. Fans will hurry to the hills at Dover to witness the spectacle, but thankfully the race car drivers will be plying their craft on the black and gritty (the asphalt), as they attempt to etch their names on championship trophies.

This is the final round of competition for the 2009 Circuit Racing season and as such several drivers will be doing their best to ensure that their worthy but insolent opponents are kept suppressed and winless, so they can move to the hallowed grounds occupied by champions.

There will be close encounters, keen contests and the usual fire, passion and excitement that racing at Dover is known for. The fans by the Gullyside, the Towers, the pit area and all over Dover have their favourite drivers/riders and they will be vociferous in their support. The various makes have dominant representatives and so you can be assured that whatever you drive, you will be represented on track. Names which come to mind : Honda – Peter Jaggon, Dean Corrodus and Colin Barrett(defending drivers champion), Toyota – Alan Chen, Mitsubishi – David Summerbell Jr., Doug Gore and Chris Campbell(this list is too long), Subaru – Stephan Bansie, Jaleel Handal, one of the Bailey brothers and surprise, surprise, Joel Jackson of Karting fame will attempt to transfer his prowess at Palisadoes (the location of the go-kart track) to the huge battlefield, which is Dover Raceway.

Hollywood

I do not need a reason to go to Dover, there are times I wish I lived next to the track – oh what a race car driver I would be! I made no request, but I was given 14 reasons why I should be present. There are 14 action packed races scheduled for Heroes Day, October 19th. (cars and sport-bikes). Hollywood cannot produce the suspense and drama that will unfold – the real Hollywood, not Doug Gore, even though he did a very good job at serving up more than enough drama at the previous meet!

You didn’t ask, but I will give you a reason why you should be there. Captain Mark Carey has completed his project. Conceptualized and executed by a Jamaican and ‘manufactured’ here in Jamaica (business idea, anyone?). Who wouldn’t want to see if his rendition of Mitsubishi’s best will ‘Evolve’ into the champion/giant slaying machine he dreamt about. Will the King be dethroned? We will see, we will see.

Cecil Munroe Jr. Gleaner On-line Writer