Image by, and thanks to, Revved Photography

The 32nd Phillip Island Classic ran over the weekend of March 6 and 7, 2021. The meeting was a fantastic effort by HTCAV and VHRR!

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, this year’s event was limited to the Saturday and Sunday with a practice day held on Friday the 5th. Sadly, no international entrants were able to attend and spectator numbers were limited to 1000 per day.

The weather god smiled upon us and provided perfect sunshine for the race days, with a slightly cooler Friday. Despite the good weather, the track was a little slow, although that did little to impede our entertainment.

HGNA’s Danny Berry, David Wheatley, Francis Meier, Jerry Lenstra, Graham Loughnan and myself all entered. Jerry had engine issues early in Friday practice and withdrew. Danny was quickest of the Minis, with Sunday retirements from both Wheatley and Francis. Liz was at the Island and posted some videos on the club’s social media.

It was great to see Wayne Rogerson assisting David Twigg with eligibility issues. In Victoria, tyres are stamped at the beginning of racing with one new set (labels affixed) and one worn set allowed to each competitor. Engine seals were also inspected.

42 competitors went out to qualify. The results had NSW competitors Jamie Tilley in the Mustang and Jason Humble ahead of Peter McNiven in a Mazda.

Race one on Saturday afternoon saw Michael Miceli (Mustang) ahead of Humble (Mazda). Robert Burnes finished third in his Charger.

Race two on Sunday morning finished under safety car for three of the four laps. The podium was occupied by Burnes, then Humble and Darcy Russell third in a Mustang Mk1.

Miceli claimed victory in the final race ahead ahead of McNiven, with Andrew Lane pushing his Mustang Fastback to third.

34 cars finished the weekend. I was lucky enough to get a 3rd in class, win the HTCAV raffle and not break any bones this year.

Up next is the HSRCA’s Autumn Festival at Wakefield Park over the weekend of the 20th and 21st of March, 2021. Stay tuned!

See you at the track soon,

David Roberts