Astley Raceway, Leigh MCC 18th May 2008
May 19, 2008
2008 has been a poor year indeed for the Leigh members. With four meetings already cancelled this year due to poor weather putting both the track and paddock out of action, fingers were tightly crossed for their currently scheduled last remaining date of the 18th May. Whilst there are murmurs there may be some last minute dates at the end of the season to make up their quota, it's looking unlikely at the moment as the North West schedule is already at bursting point with dates already booked into the last weekend of October. So, no pressure then?
The track was perfect at the start of the day; dry, loose and very, very fast. With a light wind and sunny spells, it was bound to dry out further as the day progressed, and it ultimately became dusty by the third block.
MX1 Experts provided more than the usual amount of excitement. With Lee Payne constantly throwing down the gauntlet to Aaron Crowder, and the pair of them swapping places on the podium on a race by race basis. First race today, and the same rivalry was evident right from the gate as they fought for the hole shot. Lee gradually took the lead and managed to keep it with Aaron finishing second. The second race was far more controversial, with Lee and Aaron battling their way at the head of the pack. A coming together at the second corner dumped Aaron on his back at the edge of the track. By the time Aaron remounted, he was in last position and had to work extremely hard to make his way through the crowd. As Lee roared into the distance, fate took a hand and firmly poked a finger at Lee. His bike came to a shuddering halt and wouldn't restart. Aaron gave a "friendly" wave as he passed, but their regular joust had ended for the day.
Aaron took first in the third race, which meant Dave Wright riding a Yamaha took overall first with three thirds. Consistency is obviously the key!
Report and images by MOTO reporter Michael A. Sewell (CameraGuy)
Send this article to a friend
