Noosa Hillclimb Winter 2022
I have a theory that unrequited competition sets up anxiety. That is, we all compete, but it is only when there is a clear, irrefutable placing that our anxieties can abate.
Well, there is no anxiety at the Summer 2022 Noosa Hill Climb. You drive the 14 scary corners, flat out, on the absolute limit with scarce regard for care or caution and Natsoft tells you where you placed. Done, complete, finished – and no anxiety.
Actually, not quite. With the usual array of unknowns in this game we play, sometimes it’s just “did I complete the run” and that’s a win. Or did I beat last year’s result on a wet track, eke out every last of your new horsepowers and use every bit of the grip with the new “soft” tyres?
This year all the scenarios played out in full.
The event itself provided a degree of anxiety with cars throwing mud onto the corners, snakes biting onlookers and the usual timing / grid / prang issues. No serious injuries if any, and a bit of generally repairable car damage.
Shane cleaned us all up with a brilliant display of new engine, new tyres, new attitude and a spray of talent. Jon hounded his “Personal Best” with a car identical to last year, but suffered with the dirty track. I proved last years’ time was a bit of a fluke. Jason brought the wrong car. Pat still carrying an injury gave it heaps. Sam flogged the Exige to catch Jason (not far off!) and David just had a big old go at it.
| Driver | Vehicle | Best Time | Position |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shane Murphy | Lotus 7 | 1.04.95 | 45 |
| Dick Reynolds | Caterham 7 | 1.05.04 | 47 |
| Jason McGary | Lotus Exige | 1.06.19 | 53 |
| Pat Richards | Lotus Elise | 1.06.56 | 57 |
| Sam Murphy | Lotus Exige | 1.07.12 | 66 |
| Jon Young | Caterham 7 | 1.07.92 | 79 |
| David Yule | Lotus Elise | 1.10.85 | 97 |
Along with the above crew, the usual gaggle of competitors were there to hound us: Robin Manning, Mini, Ryan Campbell, Westfield and Randall Spice, Westfield and Matthew Ingram, Lotus Elise.
And thank you all the competitors for another great Hillclimb.
The usual pit chat and pre-event drinks were carried out with the inevitable disregard for sensitivity or tact.
Not much alcohol consumed as the breathalyser was put to much use.
Special thanks go to Peter Quinn for supplying a very convenient WC, and Jason for organising a great pit area.
Also, a special mention to Jen Murphy and Robyn Richards for their moral and dietary support during the event.
