Spa-Francorchamps Circuit - 9^th May 2004:

What a circuit! 4 miles of twisting, turning, climbing & dropping excitement in the Ardennes forest. A real roller coaster of a track. Guaranteed to demand the best from both driver & car. Additionally, appalling weather during practice.

A 73 car grid screaming into Eau Rouge is a sight to behold. Outstanding qualification from Steve Davis/Sam Clarke saw their XJS on the 6th Row & that’s against opposition with up to 3 times the power! They went on to finish 14th. Eike Wellhausen’s Lister went from 29th to 2nd & but for a yellow flag period, when Richard Masters’ XJS went off (depriving wife Nikky of a drive), may have won. This yellow flag session also confused the timekeepers as both Rod Longton/Gary Davis & Brian Arculus were placed far lower than they actually finished. Brian Arculus drove a controlled aggressive race, disposing MGs & Healeys right left & centre. Robin North pulled in after 8 laps leaving daughter Zoe to uphold family honours.

Strong performances from William Lynch, Cliff Ryan/Ray Ingman, who had a good battle, & rookie (to Spa) David Upton upheld JEC/XJS honours. The Ashmores, Dennis & Adam are so enthusiastic & just love Spa. They finished well up the field, in front of more powerful opposition. Andrew Riley’s very noisy XJS (I know because it was parked outside my camper) unfortunately stopped on lap 4. A shame for this very enthusiastic couple.

Whether you are a spectator or a driver, this is a circuit well worth a visit.

Report by Terry Dye (JEC)