On Labour Weekend 2012, we attended the return event of the Barry Sheene Trans-Tasman Challenge at Hampton Downs Motorsport Park just south of Auckland. Justin managed to go to two of the three days, and Andre and I were there on the Monday. I say “return event” because it has been an Australia vs New Zealand event held at Eastern Creek in NSW since 2002 and New Zealand has always performed well at that event, winning narrowly last year. So this year it was decided to hold an inaugural return event in New Zealand. The range of bikes was delicious to a lover of classic and post-classic bikes, and Justin is certainly one of those with his newly-restored Ducati Mike Hailwood Replica.
So this is a photographic diary of the Monday.
Firstly, Justin and Tony both participated in the Bike Parade at lunchtime. For Justin it was his first track ride on his newly-restored MHR and for Tony. his first track ride on his 748. There was a short burst of rain during the parade which kept the speed down, but all enjoyed the ride.
We also met up with other enthusiasts and the whole day was very enjoyable.
With such a good selection of bikes, walking through the pits and the “buzz” on pit straight was as enjoyable as the racing.
The racing included modern sidecars which provided excellent racing on beautifully prepared machines. It was great to see two women, Tracey Bryan and Jo Mickleson, champions in the F2 class, and other women competing.
There was a tight battle between the top runners.
A great day
Great to see these old bikes and riders are still out there.
cheers – Don
Nice to see the Laverda and the BMW. Of course, the Dukes are great too.
Hi doublewhirler
Thanks for your comments. I enjoyed your site. Quite the traveller. You look like a Kiwi based in the US? Will you be at Paeroa this weekend?
Regards
Max
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