Same start. At our post pre six o’clock minus “The Roach” who had to attend a work related function later in the day. The first Springbok Series event for 2012. Fossa is not entered but makes a “Cameo appearance” Fossa has been invited to provide a lucky person with a “suicide ride”. The lucky person to select Fossa is Mari Ducasse.

Lets first define “suicide ride” for those who have not catch-ed on. We most definitely are not in the game of intentionally destroying our precious cars and cargo. The Historic Tour needs more supporters, not less. These rides are intended to give a member of the public a trip around a track to possibly create a future supporter and spectator.

Join the “Historic Tour” on Facebook.

Mari is involved in motorsport in the form of rallying. Mari’s own words,

“When I first hear that I’d been the “lucky” winner of a suicide ride, I was quite sceptic, especially when numerous cars had to be towed off the track after hitting barriers on that day. But when I saw Fossa, I knew that I would be safe and that this was a match made in motorsport-heaven.

The engine sounded amazing, it was music to any motorsprt enthusiast’s ears. I never thought that a “little old Ford” could sound that great. After taking a peek underneath the hood, I really couldn’t wait to get on the track.

Helmet on, strapped in tight, the ride of my life was about to start. It was smooth sailing right from the word go and the 3 laps sped by at the speed of light. Perfect handling, acceleration and cornering, both the car and the driver excelled on the track.

I wished the ride would never end, but unfortunately, as all good things do, it had to come to an end. You’ve never really experienced racing if you haven’t been in an Anglia, that I can assure you of!!

As a passionate rally co-driver, I was never really bothered with Historic Motor Racing. These three laps certainly changed my mind. The Fossa gave Historic’s a special place in my heart that make me want more and more of it!

The car and the team made an incredible first impression and I would love to support them in the future. Chris is certainly one of the best and kindest drivers that I have ever met. It was great having Annalie around, as there was always laughs, photos and help readily available.

The mission is accomplished, I am a converted “fan” and have memories that I can cherish forever.

A huge thank you for making this experience so special. Even if I try, I still cannot explain how much I truly enjoyed it.

If this really was a suicide ride, then at least I would have died happy!”

Our outing is slightly delaying due to two cars involved in a heavy accident just after the first corner. The time comes, and guess who is the first out on the track, Fossa! It is sweltering hot. We do not know how this will influence Fossa’s road holding. We have a very short time to find out and it is favorable. With some decent grip, to treaded tires standards, we are on our mission, to convert a rally participant!

As promised Fossa soon starts making some high revving tire noises. Mari is sitting making a video to remind her of her trip in Fossa. On our hot lap we run a reasonable 1:40.23.

Mari is given a small reminder of her trip including a “Fan Drive”. We do trust Fossa and historic racing has gain another fan. Mari, thanks for being a good sport!

Some pics thanks to Annalie, our Tea-m Manager!

“Edit” And video by Mari here

 

 

 

 

 

 

Next planned outing, Traxday, Zwartkops Raceway, 9 December 2012