Allards... Campbell... Cobb... Seagrave... It's Thruxton time. Iconic corner names for an iconic circuit, and what better place for the final round of the 2017 NG Road Racing season than Thruxton.
It will be a big day for so many riders, and what a track to host this round, the fastest on the UK mainland, and as we all know racing is about going fast, whether it be on a 125…a Superbike or a Sidecar. It seems a long time ago now that the 2017 campaign kicked off at Brands Hatch back in March. There have been thirteen championship rounds at six different circuits so far, and now we are poised to crown all the new champions, and nominate all the special award winners for the season.....but before that they all have to tackle the challenge of Thruxton.
Racers are always racers though, and if a coveted championship is out of reach then race wins and trophies are always cherished, especially with this being the final meeting of the year. As every racer will tell you..."...it's the last result of the season that keeps you going through the winter"
Some championships have been decided prior to this meeting, with Josh Day already having the Open and Powerbike secured and Max Symonds has regained the 600 title he last held in 2014. Ant Hodson is another to regain a title as he was crowned the 250 GP ACU National champ after a season long battle with Daniel Jackson and Phil Atkinson. Young two-stroke prospect James Hind lifted the 125GP series after seeing off some much more experienced 125 campaigners.
There are still several classes up-for-grabs with just a few points separating the title rivals. Probably the most hotly contented will be the Sound of Thunder where Allister Haynes, Dave Irons and Dave Mackay have swapped the lead around all year. Haynes has just a 3 point advantage so the only way to guarantee the title is by taking the win ! Brothers Ben and Tom Harrison are set for a championship showdown in the F400..... Jon Wright and Liam Turberfield are fighting out to top glory in the 700 Pre injection while Ciaran Bligh is looking for his first championship win in the 1300 Streetstock as he tries to fend of current champ Paul Jeffery.
Thruxton is very popular with the riders so expect full grids and close racing, because that is the hallmark of motorcycle racing at this high speed Hampshire circuit.
The Thruxton Circuit
Thruxton is without doubt quick, and I mean quick. Speed and power, and lots of it are vital. But a fast bike is not enough, the 2.356mile Thruxton circuit takes skill to ride fast, and bravery to master. With Superbikes able to lap at near 110mph and topping out over 170mph the 40 strong grid is not a place for the feint-hearted. Expect the big bikes to push the pace, but do not be surprised if some of the 250 GP’s and 600’s start mixing it, as slipstreaming can keep the lighter bikes in touch.
NG's fastest round Thruxton
BSB Supersport rider Luke Jones set the fastest NG Road Racing lap here two years ago on his BSB spec Accumen Industrial Services 675 Triumph Daytona. He took the Supersport triple round in 1min 17.86 seconds.... That’s an astonishing average speed of 109.11mph… Believe me when I say… “…That will take some beating!”
If anyone can 2017 man-on-form Josh Day can. He has set new figures at Brands, Cadwell, Oulton, Castle Combe, Anglesey and Pembrey so far this season......only Donington eluded him.
Adding extra interest to the weekend
NG Road Racing is again running and promoting the British National series for 125cc and 250cc GP machinery. This is the only place in the UK that you will see these ex-GP machines racing for a full British Championship title backed by the ACU (The sports governing body in the UK). We also have the Ducati Desmo Due and the ever growing band of Formula Prostocks runners...... There is something for everyone.
There's no holding back now. It’s win or bust for 2017 title contenders
This is the final round of a hectic 2017 season. So far thirteen championship rounds at six different circuits have seen riders battle to put themselves in a position to challenge for championship glory today. As ever there is the full compliment of classes on track as well as the 125/250 GP ACU National runners, plus the Sidecars for this 2017 season finale meeting.
Thruxton is the fastest UK mainland circuit, and is no place for the fainthearted as laps well in excess of 100mph are a must for anyone looking for race glory (the lap record is 109mph). That allied to the circuits reputation for being notoriously challenging. A well set up machine is a must.
With this being the last round of 2017 everyone is out for wins, whether that be for a championship or simply some end of season glory…..there is no point in holding back anything in reserve now !!!!!
Be there on the vast spectator bankings to witness the season finale.
Admission Prices.
Adults £13 Take advantage of advance online ticket savings - just £10, Children (U15) Free when accompanied by an adult, Paddock Access Free, Grandstand Tickets £5
Note : For full conditions of admission and ticket information go to
www.thruxtoncircuit.co.uk
Directions to the Circuit
Thruxton is situated in Hampshire, approx. 5 miles from Andover, and just off the A303. Look out for the brown chequered flag signs from all directions. Sat Nav : SP11 8PN
For all the info...
For full information regarding this event, including the meeting preview and post race reports check out the NG Facebook page which can be found by searching in the usual way... then just click like… or log on to
www.ngroadracing.org. For information specific to this round and the circuit take a look at
www.thruxtoncircuit.co.uk