Autocross racing in the Cayman Islands is about to see a new format.
For the 2012 season, races will be in a head-to-head format. Drivers will compete against each other on the track in the Time Attack series put on by the Cayman Motorsports Association.
Newly elected association president Karyll Iton states the change is about exciting drivers and spectators.
“We have a new structure where two cars will be on the track at once,” Iton said. “Whoever has the biggest edge wins. Based on the practice runs, people are excited about it. It will have a great impact on the sport.”
Time Attack returns to the local sports scene this Sunday, 26 February, from 1.30pm. Qualifiers will take place first before the head-to-head battles rage on into the afternoon. Sunday’s race, as with all of the autocross meets, will take place at the Progressive Loop in George Town. Racers pay a $25 registration fee and there is no charge for spectators. Winners are eligible for cash prizes and the sponsors are Automotive Art and Tony’s Toys.
Heading into the race, focus will be on last year’s top drivers. Bobby Hulse primarily used his Toyota Altezza to win the unlimited division and place second in the unlimited battle group, followed by Keith ‘Speedy’ Tibbetts III (who claimed the unlimited battle segment) in his Valvoline Subaru Impreza. Ian Tibbetts, in his Chevy Corvette, was third while George Manderson was third in the unlimited battle.
Jay Reid claimed the all-wheel drive class ahead of Richard Crawshaw and Paul Travers. Jimel McLean was named the most improved driver of the year as he used a number of Honda Civics to win the two-wheel drive class and street battle group. Tom Kirkconnell in his Mazda RX-7 and Ian Charlery in his Mitsubishi Evolution VIII were runners-up in both segments.
After Sunday’s meet, the next two races are 1 and 29 April. From there 20 May sees a “Test and Tune” Day with 27 May witnessing another Time Attack event.
Time Attack launches its season after the motorsports association elected a new executive board. Iton took over as president, replacing Kim Kirkconnell and Matthew Seales replaced Bobby Hulse as vice president. Ajoni Ambersley is the new treasurer while Nikko Miller tackles secretary duties.
Prior to Sunday’s race, a technical inspection takes place on Friday, 24 February, at Tony’s Toys at 6.30-8pm. For more information, e-mail [email protected]
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