By IW Observer.co.uk
One of the first speed trials to be held on public roads, since a change in the law in 2017 made such events legal, went without a hitch on the Isle of Wight last weekend.
The Sandown Sprint, a joint venture between local marketing company Solent and the Isle of Wight Car Club delighted thousands of locals and visitors alike, as they viewed the cars in action from the sea wall at Yaverland.
There were around 30 local drivers in the field of 100 competitors and, fittingly, the event’s overall winner was Will Nichols, the owner of The Island Car Centre in Rookley, the head-line sponsor for the event. But those thinking that the result may be a fix, should remember that Will was formerly one of the country’s most successful rally drivers.
Although now ‘semi-retired’ from the sport, he clearly still hasn’t lost his touch, as he and his Ford Fiesta R5, specially adapted for rally driving, saw off all contenders to give him top spot on the podium, with less than two seconds between all three. He was joined by Damian Bradley in second place and Stephen Moore in third. Former World Rally Champion, Miki Biasion, who said he was ‘delighted’ to be competing in his Lancia Delta Intergrale ended in 12th place.
One eager spectator who thoroughly enjoyed the event, was Sandown South councillor, Ian Ward. He said: “The event was absolutely great, and everyone appeared to be really enjoying themselves. The organisation was top class and I really hope this becomes a regular event.”
A full set of event pictures can be downloaded here, https://zenfolio.page.link/qoxga, or by scanning the QR code below:
Isle of Wight Observer