NEWS

Scottish Borders set to host the 2016/17 VSCC Trials Season Finale this weekend

Friday 07 April 2017

VSCC Triallists are bound for the familiar surroundings of Lanarkshire for the annual Scottish Trial tomorrow, Saturday 8 April, the finale to the Club’s extended 2016/17 Trials Season.
Based again on the McCosh Estate at Culter Allers and the stunning landscape in and around the town of Biggar, the Scottish Trial is an undoubted jewel in the crown of the Club’s calendar of events, with its challenging sections and breath-taking scenery.
 
Long-time Clerk of the Course, Jock Mackinnon and team return once more to deliver their winning formula, combining challenge and entertainment whilst maintaining the welcoming relaxed atmosphere the event is famed for. Jock is again joined by Club marshalling stalwart, Martin Jelley, who continues as Chief Marshal and will no doubt bring a team of supporters with him from the North-West.
 
The Trial is also a favourite for Spectators, particularly amongst those more local who otherwise have to travel some distance to witness a VSCC event. They again will be most welcome to come and watch the action. Morning Hills will be open 9.15am-12.30pm with Afternoon Hills 2.00pm-4.30pm. Download a copy of the Spectator Information for full details, including locations of those Hills open to Spectators and a complete Entry List (CLICK HERE).

With only one round remaining in the extended 2016/17 Championships, the day marks the final chance to accrue those all-important points towards the standings. Running from last year’s Exmoor Fringe Trial to this weekend’s Scottish, the 10 best scores from the 11 events will count with the traditional bonus of 25 points to all those who entered the Scottish in 2016, and a further 15 points bonus for those who take part in this year’s upcoming event. With results in some classes yet to be determined, the scores of the final round are sure to prove vital so we look forward to a great day of Vintage competition.

As is tradition it has been the Modified & Special Short Wheelbase Class that has led for much of the way with 3-time Championship winner, Don Skelton having already sewn up the Hagerty Trials Trophy and cannot be caught in his Austin 7. Don’t expect the Yorkshireman to take his foot off the gas, however, as he will be determined to finish with a victory, and will no doubt face a stern challenge from regular front-runners David Golightly, winner last time out in Herefordshire, and Matt Johnston in his Austin 7 plus several others in the  highly competitive class.

Conversely, the destination of the Frosts Trophy for the Long Wheelbase Modified & Special Cars is still to be decided with a straight fight between current Class leader Jonathan Miller in his Chrysler and the Vauxhall 30-98 of reigning champion, Paul Jeavons. Having already scored at ten rounds, Jonathan will be forced to drop his lowest score after tomorrow’s Trial, whilst Paul has only competed at nine events so far so a good score could grant him the win – it could come down to weather conditions in Scotland.  

There is a similar story amongst the Standard Classes as Dennis Bingham has already confirmed his place atop the Long Wheelbase standings in his Ford Model A. Amongst the Short Wheelbase cars it will be another head-to-head battle for the title, with David Rushton in his MG M Type and Charles Gillett’s Bugatti Brescia having shared the majority of the victories throughout the campaign.

CLICK HERE to download the latest 2016/17 Trials Championships standings (up to and including the 2017 Herefordshire Trial).

The Club would like to wish all those taking part, Competitors, Organisers and Marshals another safe and enjoyable weekend of Vintage motoring.
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