Good morning,
The BMSC committee and the event organisers have released the following statement:
"The 2002 Dell Classic Stages is shaping up to be a fantastic event. All the paperwork has been submitted to CAMS and we are on track to run the event on February 2nd (Groundhog Day ?), 2002.
The organisers would also like to take this opportunity to welcome back the naming rights sponsor, Dell Computer Corporation.
The organisers have decided to allow pace-notes for next years event. This decision wasn't made lightly, as pace notes opens up some increased risks for newer competitors, but the organisers felt that with some new initiatives they are putting in place which gives crews the opportunity to practice this process, it would be a great introductory event to this higher level of rallying. As the event isn't part of a series, competitors will be able to run the event, and not be concerned about their results, but just be able to "have a go".
The organisers have put in place some training sessions that will give competitors the chance to learn the appropriate use of pace notes, and allow them to make a decision as to whether or not they choose to run notes in the actual event.
To support this plan, the organisers have nominated 2 dates for these training sessions that are TO BE CONFIRMED.
The first, 9th January 2002, will be a theory lesson conducted at Royals Rugby Club at 730pm. This course, conducted by experienced co-drivers including Lyndall Drake and David Stephens, is intended to give the theory behind pace notes and give examples of a couple of different styles.
The second session, tentatively planned for 13th January 2002, will be a practical session out at Hyles Block. Competitors will be given two sets of pace notes (in both styles) to allow them to practice making and using notes (at forestry speed limits of 40km/h). Whilst not compulsory, the organisers strongly recommend that competitors take advantage of these sessions.
The organisers will then make available copies of the course roadbook (for a non refundable deposit of $20) on 19th January 2002 to allow competitors to familiarise themselves with the course.
No formal reconnaissance process has been organised. This was due to costings and also manpower availability. ACT Forests and the AFP have been advised of this situation and provided with maps and have been instructed to report back to the Clerk of Course on any vehicles traversing the course dangerously. Competitors reported to the Clerk of Course not be allowed to start the event. Remember also, as this isn't a CAMS recognised process, Dedicated Rally Cars (or old Type 4) must not be used.
Normal roadbooks will be available for competitors who choose not to pace note the event and they will be fully route charted.
The organisers have set the entry fee at $198 (including GST) and are hoping to be able to provide food and drink to competitors and their service crews.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact myself or Marc Kelly (Clerk of Course)
My contact details are in Spokes, or email me on
matt.dyne@team.telstra.com .
Matt Dyne
Deputy Clerk of Course
For
Marc Kelly
Clerk of Course."
ends.