Live from the Black Lion Llangurig
Here we go again...another early start after a hearty breakfast takes our Clerk of the Course and Steve F to the Great Malvern Showground last used in 2007. This 'Selectif' will be used in the same way as previously and run twice at 30 second intervals. Rated as one of the best tests in 2007 the network of roads work their way between the numerous agricultural buildings before heading off in to the meadow section over good surfaced gravel tracks - After a merge control, returning to the built up arena with a few big 'Yumps' to test the best of drivers as the route turns over grass and on to the finish line. This being a spectator venue, it is expected that many will make the lunchtime start to view this fantastic 'Selectif'.
On leaving Malvern, a chance meeting with the manager of a near by Stately Home seems to have led to a brand new venue never used on previous Lombards. A four mile test over mixed surface may well be included on this years event - watch this space.
Heading back towards the Principality, Kenny visits another new venue - a short dash of around three quarters of a mile but well worth a visit. Mainly a slippy concrete surface will greet competitors as they meander their way through wood yards and numerous lay-by's - this venue also makes way for a 'Soapbox Derby' in the summer months. That sounds fun!
Across the border and on to the Radnor Forest last used in 2005. However, due to tree felling some of the narrower tracks within the wood have been totally destroyed by cutting machines, forcing Kenny to re-route his original design! 'Balderdash' said Kenny, on realising the predicament - or words to that effect! ' We'll have to design an easier route now!' Knowing him, it'll be just as tough, but bl**dy good fun as always!
Now a journey to a forestry named after a curiously coloured Big Cat - Red Lion Hill! Although, only a small route through, it is quite demanding but unlikely to be used this year. A few miles further along is Abbey Cwm Hir and even more unused woodlands. Here our intrepid driver Steve F, managed to get the recce car stuck after trying to avoid a deep pothole and getting the wheels stuck in the soft verge. After some skillful manoeuvring, the car was reunited with the tarmacadam once again.
Some say he is a demon among drivers...but others know his handicap! Think about it!
So on to the overnight halt and the Black Lion Hotel at Llangurig...we actually ate at the Blue Bell Inn next door - cos they were showing the European Cup match on the big screen - Chelsea v Uventus. Cum on yer BLUES!
While at the Blue Bell Inn a supporter wearing a Man Utd shirt walks in to the bar looking for trouble as usual. "That hurt" he said! He is met by a bouncer who tells him he must wear a necktie to gain admission. So the Man U fan goes out to his car and he looks around for a necktie and discovers that he just doesn't have one. He sees a set of jumper leads in the boot. In desperation he ties these around his neck, manages to fashion a fairly acceptable looking knot and lets the ends dangle free. He walks back to the pub and the bouncer carefully looks him over for a few minutes and then says, "Well, OK, I guess you can come in -
just don't start anything."
On that note...gud nite!
The Chief Blogger:)
