The SE Centre returned to Trial participation in September after a gap of 14 years. Five members entered the Trial organised by Maidstone and Mid Kent Motor Club (MMKMC), who in addition to the normal recognised classes, included an MG class for the best performing car.
The day was more like summer with warm temperatures and long periods of sunshine. The morning dew meant the sections were quite slippery in the morning. The event took place in a disused quarry that has now almost completely grassed over, and included six sections that were adjusted after lunch to make a little more difficult in the afternoon dry conditions.
Some entries travelling from afar were lost because of the petrol supply problem and at times it was almost a ‘trial’ trying to thread your way through the queuing traffic at the petrol stations along the way. Fortunately, the event still had sufficient entries to run all four classes with approx. 17 entrants/drivers. Most were either trialling specials or small hatchbacks and the five MGs provided a nice contrast.
The earliest MG was Will Opie’s NA, followed by the three T Types comprising John Morgan’s TC, Martin Franklin’s supercharged TC and Peter Parker’s TD. Simon Gray’s immaculate MG Metro completed the MG class. Peter Parker was accompanied by his Grandson who thoroughly enjoyed the competition in the historic cars.
Peter Parker came second in Class 1 for standard cars and Will Opie won the Best Performing MG award.
The MMKMC organise up to three Trials a year and all the MG entrants were enthusiastic to return in Autumn 2022. This club also organise grass autotests including a Taster event primarily aimed at car owners who have competed in this type of event before. It is likely to be in the Spring 2022 and information will be circulated as soon as it is publicised.
