Craig Finnikin Win (Coventry July 2012)

What was supposed to be another downpour over England,  the sun settled down for another rare appearance allowing some enjoyment of outdoor sport.

This time,  a quick trip to Brandon and the home of Brisca Stock Car Racing,  a place frequented regularly as a kid and getting its second outing of the year.

Times have changed somewhat since the 80's; more H&S, and the grass has gone from the middle: a place where I thought maybe a new pitch for Coventry City could be had.  Well, I was only 12!

So Coventry City get the Ricoh Arena (or is it City of Coventry Stadium now?) and Brandon sees only one entry/exit on to the track, no barrels any more and sadly no Stuart Smith,  who sadly passed away two Christmas' ago.  The scoreboard still doesn't work and remarkably it looks like the same ice cream vans can be spotted on each bend. The pits still a million miles away from F1, especially after all the recent rain.

After watching the novelty which is Mini Stox (kids racing Minis) the almighty roar,  which is V8 grunt, sparked up - a sound which still gives goosebumps.  The names are still there, of course, but now I know I'm getting old sighting second generation families; Finnikins, Nodens, Wainmans, Scrivens, (Harrisons & Smiths - absent from last night) all following in their fathers footsteps,  but in the mix can still be seen the stalwart which is John Lund, still going and obviously still living the thrill of the sport.

The night didn't disappoint. Four and half hours of unaldulterated small oval racing. Great racing and awesome finishes, a credit to the drivers involved. If you've never gone, then you must.  No prima donnas here just all round great entertainment,  loads of noise, dust and action.

Mid way through I did venture down to the pits and dreamt of remortgaging to buy my  'race winner'. Twenty grand is all it would have taken and I could have been the next World Champion.

Maybe next month then. Just need to find some sponsors me thinks.

Of course the night went to Craig Finnikin  who, not only won the race that you can see in the video clip but, went on to a memorable and impressive final bend win for the British Championship.

Will I be going again?  Damn right I will. 

Coventry holds meetings on the first Saturday of each month (April - November).

Coventry Stadium

Give it a try - you won't be disappointed, only don't dress up in your Sunday best!

More info at Brisca F1