17th July 2006
SCSA Stock Cars
Oli Playle was again the man to beat… but no one could. The Southend based youngster planted his Team West Tec car on pole position once again and stormed off into an immediate lead in the 20 lap sprint race. Colin White was not too far away and was in fact buoyed by his qualifying pace, so much so that he was much closer to Playle than in previous races this year. Star of the first race however was Shane Brereton who qualified sixth and proceeded to pick off the places until he got to third place. There was little he could do about Playle or White but another podium was a worthy reward for a fine drive. John Steward’s race was ruined by inconsiderate spectators and the windy conditions. The Steward Racing Ford Taurus was forced to pit as discarded litter accumulated in the front grill causing the car to begin to overheat. Once the obstruction was cleared John was back on track but a lap down and in sixth place.
The second race saw Colin White get his nose in front very briefly before Playle asserted his authority once again. Tony Hurdle, clearly building in confidence, had a great start and nosed ahead of Brereton on lap one. More litter was blowing around on the circuit and this time it was affecting all the cars. Officials threw a full course caution on lap 23 and all the cars pitted to have their grills cleared. At the restart White nipped into the lead briefly but with five laps left Playle was back in front and stayed their to the flag. Hurdle took a fine third place and was clearly delighted with his podium finish ahead of Brereton.
Playle extends his championship lead with Mike Luck still second but with White closing in whilst Brereton and Steward tie in fourth.
Richard Neil
E&OE
