North Devon MC’s Tarqa Trial was an ACTC Championship qualifier for motorcycles only but attracted a disappointing entry of 34. This comprised four outfits, sixteen solos and thirteen cars.
The route was sensitive to the needs of the different categories. There was a total of 22 sections and included six solo only sections. There were also two unique to the three and four wheel brigade, including Riverton, well known to Lands End competitors.
Adrian Wade was best solo, dropping 12 marks, two better than John Lukett. David White also only dropped 12 but competing in Class X wasn’t eligible for best overall.
There were four outfits taking part. Steve Urell claimed premier outfit but both Geoff Westcott and Richard Maddern retired.
On four wheels Paul Merton was a familiar winner in his special followed by Ray Ferguson in Class Seven.
Chris Barham Reports:-
Over all a really good day. Wet start but sunny finish. Fantastic days sport with so many varied sections. From slippery field hill climbs, Classic sections and rocky lanes. Road miles minimal with plenty of green lanes mixed in.
From a bikers side the easiest section near the end caught so many points it was funny as. and that was the atmosphere through out the day, plenty of laughs and good will.
Many competitors will know the work that goes into a trial, weeks of route planning, official paper work with ACU, MSA, highways department ,private land owners and residents on route. Hedge cutting and section clearing. All of which is appreciated on the day but why are we not getting the numbers? The future of The Tarka is in jeopardy! Which is a real shame.
Ride with Martin Keswick and Josh Cook
Results and more stuff to come
- The Tarka Trial on the Classic Trials FB Group
- More of Chris Barham’s Photos
- Full Provisional Results
Comments, Corrections, Criticism & Concerns are all welcome:-
Classical Gas 