Shannons British at The Bend

With the cancellation of the traditional All British Day at the Echunga Oval, the owners of The Bend Motorsport Park stepped in and organised an alternative event on the same weekend.

Shannons British at The Bend consisted of a Show ‘n ‘Shine, Track Sessions for those competition vehicles to have blast around the circuit, a Motorkhana and Track Parade for the displayed cars and bikes.

With approx 200 cars and bikes on display, a number of competition vehicles and good weather, there was a good turnout of car enthusiasts, general public and Sprite Club members.

Dean King and Clive Spreadbury entered their competing vehicles for the Track Sessions, but gremlins affected both – Dean with brake issues at the end of the straight and Clive was having issues with the Mk II not achieving full revs!

There were a number of impressive track cars including a well developed TVR, Rover SD1, various Minis and older Singers, Jags and MG’s.

While on the display side there was David and Carole Tye and their lovely Lotus Elan. There were also the Bugeye, previously owned by Doug Gordon/Robert George and the nice Mk I Midget pictured above.

The Motorkhana did not eventuate, but the Track Parade gave all a chance to drive the 7.77km of the GT circuit. The crowd were able to stand on the pit wall and cheer and wave the participants at they completed a few laps behind the Safety Car.

Overall it was a good day, with many making use of the facilities of The Bend complex, including the cafe/coffee bar in the foyer, the restaurant and bar for a nice meal and refreshing ale or two. It was also noted that at the end of the day, many were booking into the Motel to stay the night, returning to Adelaide the following morning.

While the All British Day is scheduled for 2022, the British at The Bend gave those owners of British cars a chance to display and drive their cars this year.

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