We plan to take Fossa on the race track for the first time on Sunday, 15 July in preparation of her and my first race on the 21st of July at THE MIDAS HISTORIC TOUR 2012 on the Zwartkops race track.

Still have a few things to do prior to “D” day. Have recently stripped and cleaned her gearbox. The actual plan was to fit a 2821e gearbox as that box has a syncro ring on the first gear, but shock, the extension housing is longer than the standard box and will require a shorter propshaft. We will eventually do the change, it is however too short a period prior to our planned testing and race.

Butterflies, yes. Trust it will transfer into energy, reflexes and all that is needed on the track!

I have faith in the most of Fossa, at this stage the true status of her engine is not really known. It does sound extremely healthy. Time will tell!

My first visit to a race track as an actual apprentice race car!

The last of my stickers was added at about 01H00 in the morning. I heard their alarm go of at 04H00, heard the shower water open and their faces appeared at about 04H30. My big younger sister Cortina was reversed and positioned in the street with a enormous trailer behind her.

Then it was my turn. I was driven out trying to be as quiet as possible and aligned behind the trailer. Hell, that thing was so big I was wondering what was going to park next to me! Then forward and up guided by my young master. That was scary moments!!! At last a relief, I opened my eyes and I was up, hooray!

Loaded

They then proceeded to tie me down, I could not move.

Fossa tie down

After a scary drive to the Kyalami race track we arrived quite early in the morning.

Arrival at the Kyalami race track

They promptly removed the straps and proceeded removing me from the trailer, yet another scary few minutes. When safely on the ground the days provisions was moved from the Cortina as I was going to be the transport of the day!

Thomas Falkiner was the first to pay me a visit as he arrived and parked a few meters away. Boy, did I attract attention the whole day. Other known visitors included Kevin Taylor, Gary Stacey, Ryan Ludick …… They are all impressed with my good looks if I have to say so myself.

A view from the top

I was summoned to the pits for a “provisional” “Historic Technical Passport” inspection. A few “minor” issues outstanding, but ready in preparations done to date. I felt so proud! This left a smile on my owners faces! It seems their work and planning has paid off!

Back to their photography spot of the day. By the way some of their photo’s can be viewed here and here.

Then the dreaded time arrived of reloading and one of my biggest fears came true! My front wheels was already on the trailer and then the right rear ramp somehow un-hooked from the trailer. Ouch! I fell with my body on the trailer and my left rear shock absorber broke in half.

Luckily there are plenty helping hands around and they promptly lifted me onto the trailer.

The final dismount for the day went without incident as my owners made a plan to tie down the ramps. I am now standing in my privileged parking spot at home, waiting for the next action!

Drool ………

Looking cool

Hello!

A lot of progress. Maiden voyage, no major problems, some noises to investigate. Biggest “music” is the booster on the exhaust system. Still to fit some trims, door handles and panels, fix dim / bright function ……… but seriously getting there.

The big question, will she be a spectator at Kyalami on Saturday, 19 May?