Finally we made it. Was it worth all the blood, sweat, tears and money?

Were the hours spent in the pouring rain by a freezing cold race track with a broken down 2CV really justified?

In general, the answer has to be a very definite YES.

Some of you may recall the tales of woe described in The Bridge as Team Collier Racing endeavoured to complete a 24 hour race in Ireland in our green and purple 2CV. Some may have seen it in the Gala Parade when a small boy was heard to say “Look at that old banger!”

Over the last two years Terry Collier has taught himself to be an engineer, his bedtime reading has been scintillating titles like Four Stroke Performance Tuning and his conversation consists of cams and crank shafts, indeed he is known as the king of the random numbers. This came about as we (rather belatedly) discovered that buying engines was not a great idea as those that built them also raced them and, hence, had a rather vested interest!

This year the efforts of the whole team came together. Terry designed, Alan built, Gary raced and reduced the bodyweight of both the car and himself. Having helped with the former, Stuart and Sean kept the car going on race days. The girls (in my case that is a loose term) made the tea and soothed the troubled brows.

By half way through the 2003 season everything was looking good. Gary had won every race, the majority by a fairly large margin. At this point, we began to realise winners are not very popular. Those who had laughed and offered to help when we were breaking down, no longer came over for a friendly chat.

When we arrived at Silverstone to find officials taping up the car so that it could be stripped down after the race – instigated by fellow racers, the novelty of winning began to wear a bit thin. This was all a waste of time – you are only a winner if you win legitimately and this was, of course, proven.

The season continued with the car winning every race but one (where we were second, due to a rather suspect incident on a corner.)

The team were ecstatic. Ferrari had nothing on us. Our National Anthem (We are the Champions) blared out. A bit short on champagne (just one bottle) but lots of beer and red wine were consumed. We had proved it could be done by sheer dedication, determination and hard work.

Not only was Gary 2CV champion, he was also named National Saloon Car Driver of the year in Motorsport News – the only time it has ever been won by a 2 CV driver.

The main trophy had to be collected at a Gala Ball held by BARC (the official body.) This covers all amateur motor racing formulae. Just to present the trophies (no speeches) took over 20 minutes. As the 2CV is the lowest performance car, the trophy was the first to be presented.

Finally there is one cup – The Presidents Cup which is given to the best overall driver. Who won it?

GARY ADNITT AND TEAM COLLIER RACING.

Oh yes, it was definitely worth it.
Nina Collier

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