Epynt Mini rally stages

The second round of the HRCR Mini Cup took place on the Bank Holiday weekend at the beginning of May.

Nine Minis had entered on the very demanding roads over the Eypnt army ranges near Brecon mid Wales. These tarmac roads are full of blind crests and no hedges or trees to follow.

My car had had everything greased, a lighter sump guard fitted, but the engine had been OK so I had left it alone, apart from changing the plug leads after the problems we had had on the first round.

Five of the Minis stayed overnight in the same hotel, and guess who got up with a thick head after a night putting the world to rights.

By 6.00am we were on the Eypnt ranges ready to have the car checked at scrutineering, and as with all bank holiday weekends it rained horizontal.

The first two stages ran in heavy rain and fog, and to make matters worse a car running in front had dumped loads of oil on the road - this made the roads like ice. I had backed off but still went off at a 90 bend, having to reverse before proceeding.

A quick service and we were out for another two stages (repeats of the first two), to my surprise I had been quickest of the Minis and we were leading our Class with 29th overall.

The stages started to dry when the rain finally stopped, but the rain kept coming throughout the day in showers.

I increased my pace as the roads dried but so did everyone one so it was nip and tuck on every stage.

At the finish we had managed to extend our lead and finish 1st in class and 20th overall.
 
Eight of the Minis finished with only one retirement due to driveshaft failure.

There's a video above if you want to see what it’s like to drive over the ranges.
 
Next round I am away on holiday so will miss it.