With a long break between NSW supersprint rounds, Mark Lowing and Campbell Wilson decided to take the MNR's to Phillip Island. This was a first time experience for both of them, and the Victorian track's high speed character has left a lasting impression.
Another first was the chance to try the Vortx's on R-spec tyres rather than the usual slicks. This made the event more of a test session, and the information gained has provided a valuable base line set up for NSW SVA regulations.
Typically cold, windy and eventually wet, Mark's 1:47.27 lap saw him fastest clubman on the day with and average speed of just under 150kph. At nearly 12,500rpm on the main straight the Vortx was v-maxxing at around 235kmh, while a tailwind in a later session had the revs and speed creep up a fraction more! Finishing second was Sydneysider Leigh Hemmings at 1:50.7 with Victorian Jonathon Stoeckel's Westfield claiming third with a 1:53.58. Campbell, battling a slipping clutch, just missed out on a NSW trifecta, one tenth behind the Westfield at 1:53.69.
Another first timer to the Island was Mark's dad John, and his 1:58.39 was a great effort in his second only motorsport outing. Unfortunately the rain arrived for John's session and an off in slippery conditions saw a damaged Vortx being loaded for a long drive home. The good thing is John is fine, and the suspension took the brunt of the impact, leaving the chassis intact. An easy fix.
Plans are already being made for a return trip, and with a few more tweaks even faster times.