Committee member Mike How introducedproceedings and welcomed everyone to the SMRCDinner and Awards Presentation for the second timein 10 months.He noted that on each table were envelopes for theCHAS ( Childrens Hospice Association Scotland)Fund Raising Raffle for a prize draw. We then saw ashort film on the work of CHAS. This was followedby Jon Heggie, the co-ordinator of CHAS, andKenny McLeod, Mini Cooper competitor to say afew words. Kenny said he and Vic Covey had visitedRachel House in Kinross one of 3 CHAS houses inScotland and had been fund raising all season. Hespoke about the prize draw which would take placelater in the evening for a trip to the McLaren factory.Mike How returned on stage and said the trophiesfor the 6 Scottish championships would be presentedbetween the courses during the meal. He thenintroduced our MC for this evening.“He does a sterling job as the commentator on theSMRC racing on Motors TV and the support racesfor the BTCC Meetings on ITV4. He howevershows similarities to another well knowncommentator by occasionally sounding like histrousers are on fire, but his enthusiasm andknowledge is boundless.” It was Richard John Neil.Mike How then asked Hugh McCaig to come up andsay Grace.Richard asked GP3 star Lewis Williamson to comeup and present the first two Championship Awards.

Richard interviewed Russell who said it had been atremendous year, and really good fun and he thankedhis team for all their efforts.After the main course Mike and Richard returned tothe stage. Ryan Dalziel went up on stage to present

the next couple of awards. He said he was havingsuccess racing Sportscars in America and lookingforward to racing in the Daytona 24-hour race earlyin 2012.

Garry said: “It was a good season, it all went to plan.The car has been very reliable and helped me wintwo on the trot.”

DECEMBER 2011 www.smrc-uk.com

Scottish Fiesta ChampionshipThe Sandy Forrest Trophy for the NewcomersAward and the Hamilton & Inches Quaich toXR2 Champion: Russell MilloyXR2 2nd - Trophy: Dave ColvilleXR2 3rd - Trophy: Peter CruickshankWinner - Fiesta ST Cup - Trophy: Rory Bryant

Rory Bryant (right) receives the Fiesta ST Cupfrom Lewis Williamson

SMRC AWARDS PRESENTATION CEREMONY 2011Balmoral Hotel, Edinburgh December 3rd

Scottish Legends CarsChampionshipWinner - Legends Quaich: Ross Marshall2nd - Legends Quaich: Carol Brown3rd - Legends Quaich: Gerard McCoshTeam Trophy: John Marshall / Keiran MurrayRookie Award - Trophy: Robbie Burgoyne

Legends Rookie winner Robbie Burgoyne

Scottish Saloon & Sports CarChampionshipWinner - King Hussein Trophy & John NicolsonTrophy (Top Sports Car): Garry Watson2nd place - AdamWylie Trophy: Philip Duncan3rd place - H & G Robinson Trophy: Paul Nevill

Saloons & Sports Cars Champion Garry Watson withRyan Dalziell

All the club winners with Club President Allan McNish

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all our readers.

Wheelspin December 2011:Jan Feb 06 Wheelspin 18/12/11 11:32 Page 1

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Kenny said: “After missing it last year I wanted towin it. Ali Dow pushed me hard, but there was a lotof effort put in over the winter to get the car ready.”

After Dessert Mike and Richard were back on stage.Mike asked Honorary Member and former BritishTouring Car Champion, John Cleland to come upand present the awards for the next two classes.

Stan was a happy man and noted that theChampionship had done really well, and said: “Allcredit to the SMRC and Chris Edwards andeveryone who supported it.”

John Cleland said: “I watched the Mini races on TVand they were great. Vic Covey has done a good jobin getting numbers up.”David Sleigh said: “It’s taken a fair bit of effort to

get there. Hard work every weekend before theraces. and its always good to have a bodyworkcompany behind you in tin top racing.”

THE SPEECHESMike Gascoigne the club chairman was next up andspoke about the 2011 season noting Scotlandpunched above its weight in motorsport. His speechis reproduced in full in this issue of Wheelspin.Mike How then announced that there would be aninterview on stage by Allan McNish, with Paul diResta, John Cleland, Dario Franchitti, MarinoFranchitti, Lewis Williamson and Ryan Dalziel.Allan spoke to each in turn. He said that it was goodto see so many people here from far and near.“I see a lot of passion and a lot of love for the sportwhich I also saw at the last club meeting of theyear.”

He went on to describe his day at Knockhill and onhis time on a marshals post, reading the observersreport of his activities. These including, distractingmarshals by constantly talking, using mobilecommunications, not brushing the track and thinkinggloves were just to keep hands warm! It was goodfun.Allan then went on to thank John Doran of theScottish Sun for his newspaper’s continued supportof Scottish Motorsport. Allan noted his seasonwasn’t the best but remarked on how good it was tosee Ecurie Ecosse back, and that it was a team thathad helped many drivers over the years. Hementioned Paul Di Resta’s fantastic first year in F1,Dario Franchitti’s excellent 4th IndycarChampionship, Marino Franchitti’s 2nd at theSebring 12-hour, and Marino announced he will bespearheading Mazda’s efforts at Daytona 24-hourrace. He also spoke of Gordon Shedden runner upin in BTC this year -, Johnny Adam and RoryButcher. “They all fought back from a difficultposition,” said Allan. He also mentioned formerLegends scholarship driver Craig Mitchell, as wellas Lewis Williamson who had won the McLarenAutosport award and driven an F1 McLaren.Lewis then came on stage and said it had beendifficult but: “I’ve grabbed everything and its greatto be able to go forward next year.” (he is to race

Renault 3.5 litre single seaters in 2012). He also saidthe hardest thing was a 7 minute interview with FIAand learning to speak slowly!Allan said: “We’ve been through tough times but weneed to evolve. We can’t stay the same.” He alsonoted we were moving ahead because of thecommittee and marshals who give their time freely.Allan went on to say: “Tonight is all about thetrophies and those who have won and we lookforward to seeing you all in 2012.”Paul Di Resta joined him and when asked about2012 he said: “All I will say is that I am due at thefactory in a week for a seat fitting. I’m just waitingon a final decision. The team has had massive resultsthis year band punched above its weight.”Allan said: “We all look forward to you leading ateam.”Ryan Dalziel was next up and said he was lookingforward to racing Sportscars at Daytona in early2012. He congratulated Paul on his year, andremarked how happy he was to have Dario followhim last year in the same race.

Marino Franchitti then spoke to Allan. He said: “Mymother comes from Inverness and we can hardlyunderstand her.” At this the audience all laughed.Marino then spoke about his racing year noting histeam were the first to beat the Audi diesels inAmerica. He told Allan that Allan’s dad rang him tocongratulate him to which Allan remarked that hedidn’t even ring him!John Cleland was then asked if he would come outof retirement. He said: “I just wish I was 30 yearsyounger,” and noted that he didn’t think he’d been ina room with so much talent, and that “for a smallcountry we do really well.” He spoke about drivingthe safety car at Silverstone BTC this year andthinking tongue in cheek about having Plato off!Allan then spoke to Dario Franchitti. Allan notedthat karting was close to their hearts. Previously hehad spoken of how he and Dario had visited theWest of Scotland Kart club the day before theSMRC ceremony. Dario said how he enjoyed beinghere and he noted how hard everyone works, andhowAllan our club president does a cracking job.He than said: “This was a kind of tough year,winning the Championship and loosing DanWeldon.”He asked for a round of applause in Dan’s memoryand got a good one. Allan in turn thanked Dario forall the support he had given the club.

PRIZE DRAWWe than had the CHAS prize draw. It wasannounced the members and guest present hadraised £5,500 on the night by their donations. Topprize a visit to the McLaren factory was won byAdam Bernard, a signed visor donated by Paul DiResta went to Robbie Burgoyne, and a pair of racingboots from Dario went to David Jones.

Scottish Formula FordChampionshipWinner - John Romanes Quaich & The JockMcBain Trophy & Newcomers Award:Kenny Thirlwall2nd place - John Romanes Quaich: Alistair Dow3rd place - John Romanes Quaich:Jordan GronkowskiClassic F. Ford Cup - Trophy: Ivor Mairs

Ryan Dalziell with Jordan Gronkowski

Scottish Classic Saloon and SportsCar ChampionshipChampion - Doune Cup: Stan Bernard2nd place - Trophy: John Marshall3rd place - Trophy: Raymond BoydWinner Class A: Rodger MotherwellWinner Class D: Andy SmithSaloon Car Cup - Trophy: John Marshall

Classics winners received their Trophiesfrom John Cleland

Celtic Speed ScottishMini Cooper CupChampion - Lombard Trophy: David Sleigh2nd place - Trophy: Vic Covey Jnr.3rd place - Trophy & Newcomers Award:Tim SleighLadies Award - Trophy: Fiona Wallace

David & Tim Sleigh interviewedby Richard John Neil

Allan McNish interviewed the special guests

Allan McNish making his President's address

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SPECIALAWARDSPaul di Resta come up on stage to present the nextAwards.

The Mechanics Awards are for the best prepared acrsracing at Knockhill in 2011.

This beautiful hand made silver quaich waspresented to the Club some years ago by Mark’sparents in memory of their son and is presented tothe driver of the Best Prepared Classic Saloon orSports Car. In the opinion of Rob McKinna, theChief Scrutineer for the Classics, the Best PreparedCar was the TVR of Mathew Gordon.

The Border Motor Racing Club Trophy is one of themost prestigious awarded each year and is presentedto the winner of the SMRC Points Championshipbased on overall race results. It was first awarded in1957 and the winner that year was a 21 year oldfrom Chirnside in Berwickshire called Jim Clark.

These awards are decided by the commentators atKnockhill – that’s Garry Stagg, Rob Johnston andDuncan Vincent.Chris Smiley said: “I had a year of ups and downs,most race wins (Minis) but two dnfs. I think we’llhave a go at the Mini Challenge next year.”

Robbie Burgoyne said: “I couldn’t be happier, justcoming into Legends and being there or there about.Going from full contact (Stock Cars) to non-contactand I had to learn how to go round them and notthrough them.”Mike How gave our thanks to Paul for presentingthese trophies.Richard then asked Honorary Member, DarioFranchitti, to present the next awards.

This is presented to the top lady driver competing inScotland. She is a very talented driver and hadoutstanding success in karts and more recently wonthe 2008 Legends Championship. She has raced inthe Scottish Mini Cooper Cup, and this year finished2nd in the Legends Championship. She wins thistrophy for the 6th successive year and is CarolBrown

This award is presented to the top Scottish drivercompeting in a UK National Championship. Thisyear’s recipient started off his racing career inScotland racing in XR2’s and has competednationally for the last few years in the BritishTouring Car Championship. “He had a real run at

the title this year and would probably have won it ifhis team-mate hadn’t scuppered his chances bytaking him off at Oulton Park,” remarked MikeHow. Nonetheless second place is a greatachievement and this performance has ensured hisseat with Honda Racing for the coming year. Thisyear the Rothmans Trophy goes once again toGordon Shedden.

The Club has created a new perpetual trophy whichwas presented for the first time 2 years ago. Thisyear we have decided to present the trophy to aperson who represents everything that is good aboutour sport here in Scotland. Past Chairman, SandyDenham went on stage to say a few words.Sandy said the recipient had started racing inScotland in a Production Saloon Mazda back whenopen face helmets were still in fashion. From therehe progressed to Formula Ford which saw himwinning the Knockhill Formula Ford Championshipback in the 80s. He then returned to Saloon CarRacing in the British & European MG MetroChampionships with John Maguire running theteam. In 2003 he was the driving force behind thecreation of what has become the most successful onemake Championship that this club has ever run,culminating in their appearance at the BTCCMeeting at Knockhill this year. His contribution tothe Scottish Mini Cooper Cup has beenimmeasurable and his experience and knowledgehave been invaluable to SMRC since he becameinvolved.

Sadly he has moved on and we all wish him and hisson well in their new venture in association withFinlay Crocker and Ronnie Klos in 2012. the awardgoes to Vic Covey Snr.Richard asked Vic if he would like to say a fewwords.He said: “It’s been an absolute priviledge to havebeen involved with SMRC over the last 8 years withthe best one make championship.”

Dario draws the winners of theCHAS draw with Jon Heggie

SMRC Mechanics AwardsSingle Seater - Formula Ford: Alastair DowTwo Seater - Jensen Healey Classic Sportscar:Alastair CoatesFour Seater - Seat Cupra: Andrew Morrison

The Mark Brennan Ollon-Vil larsQuaichMathew Gordon

B.M.R.C. TrophyWinner - B.M.R.C. Trophy & Cheque:Kenny Thirlwall2nd place - Trophy & Cheque: Stan Bernard3rd place - Trophy & Cheque: Garry Watson

The top 3 drivers in the BMRC Trophywith Paul di Resta

Knockhi l l Young Driver of the YearAwardsSingle Seater Award (incl F.Ford & Legends):Robbie BurgoyneSaloon Car Award: Chris Smiley

Knockhill Young Saloon Driver of the YearChris Smiley

Edinburgh Students CharitiesQuaichCarol Brown

The Edinburgh Students Charities Quaichwent to Carol Brown

Rothmans TrophyGordon Shedden

Gordon Shedden won the Rothmans Trophy

SMRC Special AwardVic Covey Snr

The SMRC Special Award went to Vic Covey Snr

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Chris Edwards came up to announce the SMRCDriver of the Year Award which the marshals chose,Dario would present it. Chris said the contenderswere Robbie Burgoyne, Emma Bruce, HamishBrandon, Tim Sleigh but this year it goes to our veryown Penelope Pitstop - Carol Brown.

This carriage clock is given to the recipient to keepand is awarded to someone who puts a huge amountof effort in to the sport but does it entirely for thefun and enjoyment. He is an ace in the wet and hascompeted in Scotland in hillclimbs and sprints aswell as racing with the Club for considerably longerthan he probably cares to remember. He has raced avast array of machines from an Austin A40 to aLotus Europa via a VW Scirocco and the demonFord Escort Estate (yes – estate!!) This year’srecipient of the Walter Robertson Award is, ofcourse, the man with the best tan in Helensburgh -Olly Ross.Olly said: “I’m totally surprised and honoured. I’vebeen racing 50 years next year I’m pleased just torace and be a member of SMRC.”

Committee Member and the Patron of EcurieEcosse, Hugh McCaig, came back on stage topresent the Ecurie Ecosse Hub Cap to this year’swinner.He said: “This wheel spinner from an Ecurie EcosseJaguar D-type, affectionately known as the ‘HubCap’, is presented each year to an outstanding youngScottish driver who has shown enormous potential.This year there is one outstanding candidate toreceive this historic trophy and he might just betaking the place of Michael Schumacher in 2013. Itis of course Paul di Resta.”Paul said: “This is the first year I’ve not been on thepodium and not won an award, this is my first awardthis year.”

Mike How did the next award and surprised HughMcCaig with an award of Honorary Membership tothe club.Mike How said: “You have been involved withSMRC for most of the last 30 years as well as beingPatron of that other fine Scottish institution, EcurieEcosse. You have supported many of Scotland’stalented young drivers and have been instrumental inplacing them with top teams in the south which hasensured that their careers have been allowed toflourish. Such drivers have included DavidCoulthard, Dario Franchitti, John Cleland, AllanMcNish and possibly more than any other, the latelamented David Leslie.“Your passion for Ecurie Ecosse is unbounded andyour success with the team in winning the C2 classin the World Sportscar Championship in 1986 andfinishing 8th overall at Le Mans in 1987 were bothremarkable achievements which will never beforgotten by anyone who witnessed them, myselfincluded.“There are times when your bluster is worse thanyour bite but nobody will ever question yourcommitment and passion for the sport, and for thatreason the other members of the Committee of theClub have all agreed, and that’s a first, to make youan Honorary Member of the Scottish Motor RacingClub. I would like to ask our President, AllanMcNish, to present you with this token of ourappreciation.”Richard then asked club President, Allan McNish,to remain on stage to present the next few awards.

This trophy is given for the best performance by aScottish driver in a Sports Car. This year wedecided there are 2 winners who both started theirracing careers in Scotland. Unfortunately they arenot here tonight but for their achievement inwinning the British GT Championship in the CRSFerrari the winners are the father and soncombination of Jim & Glynn Geddie.This award goes to the top Scottish Driver

competing in an International Championship. Thewinner this year has collected this trophy on severalprevious occasions but the fact that he won his 4th

Indy Car title this year was totally overshadowed bythe tragic accident that befell his fellow Brit, DanWheldon. The winner is Dario Franchitti.Dario said: “This means a lot, as quite a lot of myfamily were on screen (nominations for the award).”He also wished Paul Di Resta good luck at theAutosport dinner.

This trophy is given in memory of Duncan whocompeted at Ingliston in the 70’s and 80’s and isawarded to an enthusiast who is totally committed tohis favourite sport of motor racing and invariablydoes most of his work behind the scenes. His or herefforts are usually seen by few but appreciated bymany, and tonight’s winner is someone who meetsthat criteria in every respect. From driver, entrant,engineer, sponsor, co-ordinator and as passionate anenthusiast as you will find in any paddock. Cut himin half and it reads ‘Formula Ford’ so you all knowthis year’s winner of the Duncan Fisher Trophy isGraham Brunton.

These two awards are supported by money giveneach year by the Whyte & Mackay Trust and againthis year by additional money from the Club. MikeHow thanked David Brown of Whyte & Mackay,who was here with us this evening, for supplying allof you with the miniatures on the tables.The awards go to two outstanding drivers competingin SMRC Championships who have started circuitracing in the last couple of years, shown great talentand ability, and could well move on to greater thingswithin the sport.The Sheila Whyte Trophy comes with a cheque for£500 and is awarded to a guy who has impressedeveryone with his driving in the past 2 years in theFiesta Championship and which culminated in himwinning this year’s Championship. The award goesto Russell Milloy.

The Hartley Whyte Trophy goes to a young manwho this year totally dominated the Formula FordChampionship and achieved the ultimate result bywinning every one of the 14 rounds. He alsofinished 2nd at the Formula Ford Festival in theKent class on his first visit to Brands Hatch which is

SMRC Driver of the Year AwardCarol Brown

The Walter Robertson AwardOlly Ross

Olly Ross (left) receives the Walter Robertson Award

Ecurie Ecosse Hub CapPaul di Resta

Hugh McCaig presents the Ecurie Ecosse Hubcapto Paul di Resta

Honary MembershipHugh McCaig

Wil l iam Lyons TrophyJim & Glynn Geddie

Cal lands TrophyDario Franchitti

The Callands Trophy went to Dario Franchitti

Duncan Fisher TrophyGraham Brunton

Graham Brunton received the Duncan Fisher Trophyfrom Allan McNish

Shei la Whyte TrophyRussell MilloyHartley Whyte TrophyKenny Thirlwall

Russell Milloy won the Sheila Whyte Trophy

Wheelspin December 2011:Jan Feb 06 Wheelspin 18/12/11 11:32 Page 4

KMSC Saloons and Sports

Race One: 1 Cameron Purdie (Westfield) 10 laps in9m43.994s (78.905mph); 2 Stuart Walker (PorscheGT2) +1.859s; 3 Philip Duncan (Westfield);4 Andrew Morrison (SEAT Cupra); 5 Alex Bruce(Mitsubishi Evo); 6 Robert Drummond (Ford EscortCosworth);. Class winners: Bruce; Robson; Smiley.Pole Position: Walker 58.37s (78.94mph). Fastestlap: Purdie 55.36s (83.22mph). Starters: 14.Race Two: 1 Duncan 10 laps in 9m32.42s(80.50mph); 2 Walker +8.75s; 3 Morrison;4 Robson; 5 Smiley; 6 Finlay Crocker (MiniCooper);. Class winners: Robson; Smiley; Nevill.Pole Position: Walker. Fastest lap: Duncan 55.08s(83.66mph). Starters: 11.

KMSC Classic Sports and SaloonsRace One: 1 Andrew Smith (Morgan +8) 10 laps in10m16.71s (74.71mph); 2 Stan Bernard (Porsche911) +3.42s; 3 Shonny Paterson (Triumph TR8);4 Barry Riddell (Triumph TR8); 5 Ross Marshall

(Ford Escort); 6 Russell Paterson (Morgan +8);Class winners: Bernard; Shony Paterson; RossMarshall. Pole Position: Ross Marshall 1m03.56s(72.49mph). Fastest lap: Smith 59.35s(77.64mph). Starters: 21.Race Two: 1 Smith 10 laps in 10m05.90s(76.05mph); 2 Ross Marshall +3.21s; 3 Bernard;4 Russell Paterson; 5 Robert Marshall; 6 RaymondBoyd (911); Class winners: Ross Marshall; Bernard;Ian Morton (MG Midget). Pole Position: RossMarshall. Fastest lap: R2 - Smith 58.63s(78.58mph).

KMSC Open SaloonsRace One: 1 George Orr (Fiesta ST) 6 laps in6m32.58s (70.42mph); 2 David Sleigh (MiniCooper) +0.28s; 3 Tim Sleigh (Mini Cooper);4 Sandy Forrest (Mini Cooper); 5 Peter Cruickshank(Fiesta XR2); 6 Stephen Russell (Fiesta XR2); Classwinners: David Sleigh; Cruickshank. Pole Position:Orr 1m05.49s (70.36mph). Fastest lap: Orr1m03.81s (72.20mph). Starters: 20.

Race Two: 1 Orr 10 laps in 17m11.51s (44.67mph);2 David Sleigh +4.08s; 3 Tim Sleigh; 4 Forrest;5 Hamish Brandon (Mini Cooper); 6 Russell; Classwinners: David Sleigh; Russell. Pole Position: Orr.Fastest lap: Orr 1m02.91s (73.24mph). Starters: 20.KMSC LegendsHeat One: 1 Robbie Burgoyne 8 laps in 8m46.16s(70.06mph); 2 John Marshall +2.22s; 3 Billy Wait;4 Giuseppe Palazzo; 5 David Hunter; 6 GordonMann; Pole Position: Gordon Mann. Fastest lap:Hunter 1m02.77s (73.40mph). Starters: 17.Heat Two: 1 Ross Marshall 8 laps in 10m01.13s(61.30mph); 2 Hunter +0.18s; 3 Burgoyne;4 Wait; 5 Guiseppe Palazzo; 6 David Allan; PolePosition: Ross Marshall. Fastest lap: Hunter1m01.69s (74.69mph). Starters: 17.Final: 1 Burgoyne 7 laps in 13m49.51s (38.88mph);2 Hynds +0.28s; 3 Allan; 4 John Marshall; 5 ErricoPalazzo; 6 Guiseppe Palazzo;. Pole Position: ChrisHynds. Fastest lap: Hunter 1m01.78s (74.57mph).Starters: 17.

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no mean achievement.Our congratulations and a cheque for £750 go toKenny Thirlwall.

This medal is presented by Sir Jackie Stewart andhis family and is awarded for ‘Services to ScottishMotorsport’. This year’s recipient, as usual, has noidea that he is to receive this very special silvermedal ,as the decision to present it is made solely bythe Club Chairman. He is one of the guys who doesmost of his work behind the scenes, spends hiswinter break preparing the regulations, applying forpermits to run meetings, writing and editing theWheelspin magazine and doing all the stuff thatnobody else wants to do !! His notes at CommitteeMeetings look like something that Banksy would beproud of but he is, like many of us, an out and outenthusiast for this great sport of ours. This year the

Stewart Medal goes to Kevin Pick.Kevin said that he was honoured and priviledged toreceive this prestigious award, and that he had spentover 20 years on the committee and enjoyedworking for the club with many varied committeemembers. He also added how good it was to see allthe celebrities here tonight supporting the club andthe trophy winners.

The final award this evening is The John Romanes‘Swift’ TrophyThis beautiful trophy was donated to the Club someyears ago by Doris Romanes in memory of her latehusband, John, who was a stalwart of the Club forthe best part of 50 years and, of course, ran Inglistonin its early days. Doris, as always, is with ustonight, and I think this wonderful trophy looks evenbetter every time it is presented. She has asked that

the trophy is presented on her behalf and we aredelighted that Honorary Member, Bernard Buss, hasagreed to do the honours.The trophy is awarded to a Scot for ‘Excellence inMotor Racing’. He has won this trophy before, butas he keeps pushing the boundaries of personalachievement it cannot be ignored. He has earned therespect of every one of his fellow competitors and iswithout doubt one of the top 5 single seater driversin the world. In recognition of his outstandingsuccess once again in the US of A this trophy has togo to Dario FranchittiDario said: “I am an anorak and was readingprogrammes recently from Ingliston in the 70s sentto me by a fan from Baltimore, and noting all theawards and names so this trophy is special. Thankyou Doris Romanes.”The Hartley Whyte Trophy went to Kenny Thirlwall

The Stewart MedalKevin Pick

Allan McNish presented theStewart Medal to Kevin Pick

The John Romanes ‘Swift’ TrophyDario Franchitti

The John Romanes Swift Trophywas awarded to Dario Franchitti

KMSC ran their first ever car race meeting on a cool but dry dayKnockhill 30 October

Sports & Saloons Race 1 winner Cameron Purdie

Andrew Smith scored a brace of wins in theClassic Sports & Saloons

George Orr took both Open Saloon Races

Wheelspin December 2011:Jan Feb 06 Wheelspin 18/12/11 11:33 Page 5

Mike Gasco i gne came on s tag e. He i snow in hi s s econd s ti nt as Chai rrmanhav ing held the po s i ti on 10 years ago .Mike i s a Cl erk o f the Cours e andheav i l y i nvo l v ed wi th marshal l i ngthrough SMMC as wel l as the Sco tti s hRal l y.He said’ We are here tonight to celebrate notjust success but also participation in Scottishmotor racing – by all concerned. I was struckwhen I read this week the latest edition of theMSA’s magazine which is sent to all MSAlicensed competitors and officials. Just castyour eyes through it and count the sheer numberof reports and articles which feature Scottishcompetitors, Scottish officials and Scottishevents. Scotland has punchedwell above itsweight in motor sport in the past and continuesto do so today. This roomful of participants inonly one of the 22 different disciplinesregulated by the MSAis living proof of that.Long may it continue.It i s my task to wel come HonoraryMembers :Our President – Allan McNish, Bernard Buss,John Cleland, Dario Franchitti, Graham Gauldand Ian Scott Watson.Special Guests - Doris Romanes, Jane Leslie,Paul di Resta, Marino Franchitti, Tom Purvesand Jon Doran.Apologies have been received from our Patron– Sir Jackie Stewart. He and Lady Helen areunable to be with us tonight due to a last minutechange in Jackie’s commitments.We should acknowledge our sponsors whosesupport of our racing season is very muchappreciated.Yokohama – represented by Ronnie Thom whois here tonight. Also Celtic Speed, Beatsons,Crossflags andWaterevolution.We should also record the achievements in2011 of Scottish drivers who competed outsideScotlandInternati onal l y. . .Allan McNish - probably, this year, thecoverage of his massive shunt at Le Mans;Dario Franchitti - winning his 4th Indy CarChampionship; Paul di Resta - 13th - and toprookie - in the FIAFormula 1 WorldChampionship; Lewis Williamson - competingin GP3 andwinning the round at the BritishGrand Prix meeting at SilverstoneRyan Dalziel - competing in the GrandAmChampionship - andwinning its final roundNationally.. .Jim andGlynn Geddie - winners of the BritishGTChampionship; Johnny Adam - whofinished 4th in the same Championship;Gordon Shedden - 2nd in the British TouringCar Championship; Rory Butcher - competingin the UKPorsche Carrera Cup and finishing2nd in the Pro-Am 1 class with Celtic Speed;Oly Mortimer - winning the UKPorsche GT3Cup; Chris Knox - winning the UKMiniChallenge; Russell Paterson - winner of theMorgan Championship; DavidThorburn -

finishing 2nd in the Dunlop Radical UKCupand absent tonightGeorge Brewster - competing in the UKPorscheCarrera Cup, champion in the Pro-Am 2 withCeltic SpeedWe shouldmark the passing earlier this year ofEric Liddell. He was a talented driver of sportscars which he raced throughout the UK as wellas abroad. His last race was at Ingliston in theearly 1970s. He is added to the large number ofdistinguishedmotor sport competitors whichScotland has produced over the years andwhoare no longer with us.As for our own 2011 season, we have much tocelebrate.. .Our s i x MSA-permi tted Sco tti s h RaceChampionships were again verycompeti ti v e.Five out of those six championships wentdown the wire this year, all five being decidedat our last Knockhill meeting in early October.Our newmarshal recruitment rate remainssteadily high and our overall marshallingnumbers are the envy of clubs and circuits southof the border.Those of our Championships which containedaway rounds at circuits in England andNorthernIreland this year all received, withoutexception, plaudits from the local officials,marshals and spectators for good grid sizes andcompetitive racing.Al l i n al l , 2 011 has been a v intag e y earfo r the Sco tti s h Motor Racing Club and Ihope that by the time you are ready to go hometonight youwill feel that this Awards Dinnerhas celebrated this vintage year in style.Before I finish it is right that I should expressgratitude to those who deserve our thanks.The Club is grateful to Knockhill. DerekButcher, Jillian Shedden, Stuart Gray and IanForrest are unfailingly helpful and courteouswhen we use their circuit for our home racedays. There are two aspects of Knockhill whichI would like to pick out for special mention.Firstly, the commentary team – Garry Stagg,Rob Johnston andDuncan Vincent. Theirknowledge, their style and their content addshugely to race meetings at Knockhill – thankyou, guys.Secondly, a special thanks to Derek whosepower of prayer still seems to work – weenjoyed this year on average the best race dayweather we have experienced in years. Justkeep kneeling, Derek.Thanks once again are due to Shona andStephen Robertson whose pies are the centrepiece of free lunches which Knockhill and theRobertsons provide for our marshalsthroughout the season.Speaking of the Robertsons, I am advised byMike How– the “Statto” of Scottish motorracing – that the Robertsons are the first andonly family to have three successivegenerations compete at SMRC race meetings –father Walter, son Steven and grandson Scott.They andmore of the family are here tonight –

we salute you.We are unfailingly provided, at each of ourKnockhill race meetings, with a vehicle fromMorrisons of Stirling for use as the Course Car.This is just one of many such gestures from awide range of well-wishers which do really helpthe process of planning and running our racemeetings.In that connection could I salute the others inour Clerk of the Course team (I am its juniormember) for their continuing efforts to run raceday programmes of 20 or more sessions(qualifying and races) with an hour’s lunchbreak, starting at 8.30am and finishing onaverage by 5.30pm. I can reveal that it issometimes very hardwork, but we believe thatit is what the competitors want.We should reco rd our thanks to thespeci al i s t teams whi ch are v i tal partso f mo to r raci ng – the timekeepers, thescrutineers and the medical staff.It is trite to say that there could be no racingwithout the marshals, but it is true. Generallyspeaking, there are as many officials andmarshals at the circuit on race days as there arecompetitors. It is virtually a one-for-onearrangement. 2011 has been my 41st year as amotor sport official. I mention this only toallow the comparison with many of my fellowofficials whose service to the sport stretchesback much further in time than mine. Much ofthis can be attributed to a high loyalty rate toSMRC by the marshals. This in turn isgenerated by an almost tangibleesprit–de–corps which has been built up in thelast 20 years or so. The marshals represent arich asset for SMRC and one to be nurtured. Weforget this at our peril and should countourselves fortunate not to be suffering thethreat of cancelled race meetings through lackof marshals which face some circuits and clubsin the south.Lastly I would like to offer thanks to theCommittee members, the Directors of TheScottish Motor Racing Club Ltd. I candisclose that chairing their meetings is notalways as easy as I would like, but their task isto run the Club for the benefit of the members.That involves managing the finances (theClub’s annual turn-over is about £0.25m),composing supplementary regulations,structuring the season’s racing calendar,managing event entries, managing theChampionships, producing event programmesand the Club magazine (Wheelspin) andmuch,much more. These things don’t just happen,just as tonight’s Awards Dinner didn’t organiseitself. To the Committee, please accept my –our – thanks.

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CHAIRMAN’S SPEECHSMRC AWARDS PRESENTATION CEREMONY 2011

SMRC Chairman Mike Gacgoine

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This morning started early, up at 6.30am to makebreakfast and to get to the Daytona circuit in plentyof time for the drivers briefing at 8.15am.Afterwards I had to head to the Grand Amcredentials building to get my single event licenceand my Grand Am membership. And a couple ofhundred dollars later I had the necessarydocumentation to drive at Daytona! I got back to thecircuit and dropped my helmet off at Speedcom toget my radio and eject safety system fitted, I wasmore or less ready to go.I spent most of the day down in pit road with theteam, listening in to their radio chat and finding outhow everything works. It was very warm, around30C, so I tried my best to stay as hydrated aspossible and stay in the shade! After lunch I went tothe motorhome and chatted with the chief raceengineer, he told me that I would be in the car insession 3.I got changed into my race gear and headed topitroad. I watched Matt Bell, their pro GS driver,start the session on new tyres so I was glad that Iwas getting handed a car with decent rubber. Thesignal came from the crew chief to get ready. Mattarrived in pit road and handed the car over to me.I was given some assistance to strap into the car asthere are 3 extra safety nets and additional radio

plugs to master. However, a leftfront sensor fault meant that time wasticking away whilst repairs weremade, it felt like 20 mins but it was morelike 5-6 mins. The number 2 crew guygave me the signal to fire the camaroengine up, the noise was incredible. Soengaged 1st gear and drove alongpitroad on the speed limiter and got outonto the circuit for the first time.I took the out lap nice and calm andslowly built up the speed. The car feltfantastic, torque was mind blowing. As I came out ofturn 6 I approached the banking for the first time. Ihad been told that its easily flat out and also saferand was suprised at the amount of grip, the 33degrees of banking held the car firmly in the corner.As I approached the end of my outlap I came up tothe corner I was concerned about, turn 1. This cornerhas every kind of element possible; it has camber,off camber, it requires trail braking, 2 down shiftsand it gradually tightens. I don’t know what I wasworried about. The grip was way more than Iexpected and the car so stable under braking from160 mph.My first flying lap of Daytona produced a 2 min 10second lap. I slowly built the pace up and lap 2 gave

me a 2 min 5 second lap. I was building more andmore confidence with the car and lap 3 was a 2 min3 second lap. As I was about two thirds the wayaround lap 4, I got the call from the team to pit asthe session was finished. The Motech ECU has theability to predict the lap time using your previouslaps sectors, this prediction was a 2 mins 2sec. I washappy enough that after 3 laps I’m within 3 secs oftheir two pro drivers as I have never driven aRWD race car on any circuit, I have never drivenLHD, I have never driven anything with that kind ofpower and I’ve never driven Daytona before. But Ihave now !The team have been really friendly and I’m reallyenjoying the experience so far!

Chris Knox

ANNUALMEMBERSHIPPlease remember to rejoin the club. Yourrenewal is much appreciated, Send it along with acheque to Chris Edwards. The fee is the same aslast year and forms are on the club web site.

CHAMPIONSHIP REGULATIONSUPDATES 2012PROPOSED CHANGES TO REGULATIONSMINI COOPERSPoints scoring now for the top 15 finishers per race.Scored 25, 20, 16, 14, 12, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1.Bonus point for fastest lap.Technical changes:Working headlamps areoptional and maybe replaced with full sizealuminium or fibreglass blanking plates to the samedimension as the glass headlampIt is permitted to have additional working gauges orwarning lights for oil pressure, and / or watertemperature.Interior wiring is free and any unnecessary wiringmat be removed, but any additional wiring must notbe connected to the engine ECU wiring, and mustnot be performance enhancing in any wayIt is permitted to fit a polyurethane bush in place ofthe standard bush to the rear of the front lowerwishbone. No other modifications to this wishboneare allowed.FIESTASAll cars start on the same grid with no delayedstarts.XR2Rear axle. Standard Group N axle or upgradeversion with welded flanges fitted with brakeassembly and shoes from Ford Fiesta 1400 MK41998 / 2001 model only, is allowed.

ST class race on Yokohama treaded tyres, no slicksor wets. Zetec S cars from 2009 onwards allowed inST Cup and will be on Yokohama Tyres.

LEGENDSMinimal registration fee. Guest drivers do not scorepoints and their entries must be approved by theCompetition Secretary. All cars use Federal MogalLegends Tyres.

SALOONSAND SPORTSCARSSeparate Cup competition for MX5 1600 MK1 carsbased mainly on BRSCC 2012 regs, though all MX5cars use Yokohama treaded tyres. These cars will notscore points in the Saloon and SportscarChampionship.Classes in Saloons & Sports now have motorcycleengined cars in class B.Fuel line – fitment of a dry break coupling for allcars except MX5 Cup cars..Raceiver mandatory for all cars including MX5s.

FF1600Bonus point for fastest lap per round added.Newcomers Cup, a first year winner will beineligible in their 2nd season.

CLASSIC SPORTSAND SALOONSClasses restructured.Class A: Sports and Saloon Cars up to 1500 ccClass B: Sports and Saloon Cars 1501 cc to 1800ccClass C: Sports and Saloon Cars 1801cc to 2300ccClass D: Sports and Saloon Cars 2301cc to 3600ccClass E: Sports and Saloon Cars over 3601ccClass F: Invitation - Sports and Saloon Cars anyengine size.(Class F does not score any points)

Sportscars must be fitted were possible with lateraldoor bars on both sides of the car, these may beexternal to the bodywork.Rocket gearboxes may be replaced with Type 9Sierra 5 speed gearboxes. Sequential gear changesare not permitted.Ford Fiesta cars, BC5 transmission will be permittedbut only if the 5th gear pinion is removed from theextension casing thus rendering the unit to be a 4speed item.MGB V8 cars may use the 5 speed RV8 gearboxfrom the MG RV8 as an option in the interests ofreliability.

2012 PROVISIONAL CALENDARSMRC Knockhill meetings featuring allScottish ChampionshipsApril 8, May 5/6, July 21/22, Aug 12, Sept 23,Oct 7Championship Away roundsMay 19/20 Croft - Saloons and SportscarsJune 2nd Oulton Park (GP Circuit) -Mini Coopers, Classics, LegendsJune 2/3 Cadwell Park (Mountain Circuit) -FiestasJune 23/24 Angelsey - LegendsJune 30th Kirkistown - ClassicsSeptember 8/9 Croft - Mini CoopersOther car race meetingsKnockhill July 8 - Reverse directionKMSC Knockhill - Speedfair September 8/9Winter Warmer Oct 28Knockhill June 10th - BRSCC track attack sprint,drifting, Pick–upsKnockhill Aug 25/26 - British Touring Cars

• NEWS • NEWS • NEWS • NEWS • NEWS •

Knox in the USSAWednesday 17th November, Daytona

Wheelspin December 2011:Jan Feb 06 Wheelspin 18/12/11 11:33 Page 7

Visit our website on www.smrc-uk.com Photos by Jim Moir Tel: 0131 552 8817 Printed by The Waverley Press Ltd. Tel: 01224 775 000Wheelspin designed by Vince Towns Graphic Design Tel: 0779 2050 786 Editor: Kevin Pick: Email k.pick@src-uk.com

Mike Gascoigne 01383 735308(Chairman - email: m.gascoigne@smrc-uk.com)Chris Edwards 01577 830133(Vice Chairman & Competition Sec - email:c.edwards@smrc-uk.com) Kevin Pick 0131 332 8287(Wheelspin Editor - email: k.pick@smrc-uk.com)Mike How 0131 339 3876(Club Clothing - email: m.how@smrc-uk.com)Sandy Denham 0131 334 2000Bernard Buss 01361 882322Nick Clarke 0131 441 2698Andrew Fenwick 01577 830162Adrian Hamilton 07801 911300Kate Haston 01324 556541Hugh McCaig 019686 76406Graham Brunton 07778 169512Aly Hunter 0788 444 1700Russell Paterson 07979 911 111

SMRC COMMITTEE

COMPETITION Last issue it was a Caterham Road Sports car driven by Ian Gardiner. The bonusquestion was how many Scottish XR2 Championships has Alan Keith won, answer,four (he was runner up twice as well). There was not one correct answer.

This issue we go back in the mists of time to the mid 90s. What is this single seaterand who is driving it. Bonus question, name three of the current SMRC Clerk of theCourse team.

Answers to your editor by 30th January, email k.pick@smrc-uk.com or leave amessage on the ansaphone 0131 332 8287. Editors decision is final.

SSPPEECCIIAALL OOFFFFEERR FFOORR SSMMRRCC MMEEMMBBEERRSS

1100%% OOFFFF GGPP RRAACCEEWWEEAARR

To take advantage of this excellent offeryou must order via the telephone orderline on 01327 855585. You can also

request a new GP Racewear catalogue.Check out the latest items online at

www.gprdirect.comRemember, to get your 10% discount

you must quote your SMRC membershipnumber when ordering

Hi Kev inI think you should print this letter from CHASin Wheelspin along with your report of theDinner.‘I have received another note advising me thatas a result of the film on Saturday CHAS havehad a response from one of our competitors whohas offered his services to the charity tomaintain both of the homes free of charge whichis a magnificent gesture. In addition nearly allthe Mini competitors now want to becomeinvolved in the 2nd CHAS Mini Grand Prix nextyear where bereaved parents and families aregiven a day to remember. Finally Dario has agreed to visit both of thehomes with Ashley and would like to become asupporter/ambassador for the charity.RegardsMike How

Hi Mike (How)I just wanted to say another huge thank you onbehalf of CHAS for allowing us to be part ofyour fantastic evening on Saturday. Kenneth (McLeod) has done a fantastic job raising fundsand awareness for CHAS and it wouldn’t havebeen possible without your help and support.It was terrific for CHAS to be involved with theevent on Saturday and the money that was raisedwill be a real help in enabling us to provide careand support at Rachel House in Kinross, RobinHouse in Balloch and through our CHAS atHome service throughout Scotland. Christmasis a special time for all families and we’ll beorganising lots of fun activities for the familieswe’re supporting over the festive periodincluding some special visits from Santa andsome fantastic Christmas parties! All of thishelps our families create wonderful memories inthe time they have together and really wouldn’tbe possible without the support of people likeyourself, Kenneth and everyone at the SMRCdinner on Saturday - -thank you.I hope you have a great Christmas when itcomes and if you could pass on my thanks toeveryone involved with organising Saturday’sdinner it would be very much appreciated.All the bestJon Hegg i eRegional Fundraising ManagerCHAS

Dear Al l (Cl as s i cs Racers ) Many thanks for making my first and your lastouting such a great day. Thanks for your advice, encouragement andtolerance. I learnt a lot in a few hours, not leastnot to look in the mirror on the way into thechicane! Many thank to Rodger Motherwell for the loanof Alfa#69. I hope to see you all next season inDatapost Fiesta #61. Regards,Stev e

Hi EverybodyClassic Drivers Waterevolution DinnerAn enjoyable evening was had last night (12thNov) by the 16 drivers and their partners whoattended this year’s dinner at Castlecary. Goodfood, convivial company, what more could youwant??As you know, Waterevolution (PeterHoldsworth) had put up 3 trophies for theClassics Championship, which were dulypresented at the dinner. You voted as follows:Best driver: Stan BernardMost improved driver: Rodger MotherwellClassic Spirit driver: Ian Morton.Many thanks to Peter for his generoussponsorship.By the way, the trophies are ‘perpetual’ and willbe handed back by their winners next year: thewinners also received small medals which theywill keep.For those of you going to the SMRC dinner in afew weeks, enjoy the occasion: here’s to nextseason!Cheers,Co l i n Beveridg e

Mike (Gas co i gne)Can you pass on from me to the committee a bigcongratulations on the Annual Dinner, everyoneI have spoken to really enjoyed themselves andI add my name to that list. I also think it bringseveryone together very well and on this we canbuild towards a successful 2012.Well done once again.Kind RegardsAl l an McNi sh(President SMRC)

•• LLEETTTTEERRSS••

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