SEC National Event - Calne 2000

Despite the early morning downpour we awoke at 7:30am to glorious sunshine. Unfortunately, Jason How had left the bonnet off his beast of a V4 overnight and there were rumours floating around that he'd flooded the engine. After a swim in the site's heated pool, with young Matthew Foxley in tow showing us how it's done, it was out with the camping stove for a bacon butty. More cars arrived throughout the day with a good cross section of models being represented.

The day was spent looking at the various cars, chatting to the owners and being harassed by John A-B into buying raffle tickets (well done John). Meanwhile John Winter and Adrian Lee were content in playing 'How many sausages will fit on a disposable barbecue' - answers on a post card please. Adrian also seemed to be doing a very good impression of the hit movie 'Dances with Wasps' or whatever it was called. True to form, I managed to purchase some bits for my 99, much to the dismay of Debbie who would like her dining room floor back.

The meal on Saturday night, like the previous year's offering, was excellent. Well done Bridget and team. Dave Thorne was presented with a Mike Palmer sketch in honour of his service as editor and Tony Percy was presented with the Enthusiast of the Year award - well done Tony. After eating far too much it was back our small huddle of tents, overshadowed by the summit of the enormo-tent (I swear it was snowing up there at one point), to be joined by Roland Potter, the Ashley-Barkers and the Foxleys for coffee and chat. Some time later we managed to retire to the comfort (?!) of our own tent.

The weather on Sunday was perfect once again and the morning was spent relaxing. John W and Adrian managed to get a ride in Chris's 99 Turbo and the inane grins on their faces when they returned said it all. Chris then gave me the opportunity to drive the car, which was an offer I couldn't resist. That car, with its fan-cooled intercooler and water injection, is the fastest thing I've ever driven. When Chris casually asked if it was much quicker than my standard 99 Turbo I think the best response I could manage amounted to fits of uncontrollable laughter. The correct answer is 'Yes' Chris and thank you for the experience! What the 99 Turbo that arrived later in the day, fitted with a 16v 900 turbo engine was like doesn't bear thinking about (anyone selling a 16v turbo engine please let me know!!).

As Sunday wore one the site gradually emptied. We packed up around 3pm and to all those disbelievers, yes, everything did fit into the back of the V4! We made our way home back up through the Cotswolds, paying a visit to Avebury and its impressive stone circle on the way.

The National was a resounding success and even managed to better last year's excellent event. I am now counting the days to the next one. Congratulations and thanks are due to Wally and Bridget Glander and everyone else involved in the organisation of a fantastic weekend.

Report: Julian Cartwright

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