A TT suggestion

Sir,

As a regular reader of Motor Sport, I would like to express my regret at the decision to discontinue the Tourist Trophy Race on the Dundrod circuit. This unfortunate announcement is a great blow to the many enthusiasts in the province, many of whom have continually supported the race since the days of Kaye Don and Caracciola. I am even informed that a number of sports racing cars have been purchased specifically with this race in view. These include three Loti and at least one Cooper-Climax. The main reasons given for the cancellation of the race were :- (1) The lack of sufficiently experienced drivers ; (2) The number of casualties at last year’s event ; (3) The unsuitability of the circuit.

I have found what I think to be the remedy to most of these problems. This is the only way in which a “safe” race could be held :— (1) The race should be run on two separate days ; (2) It should be run in three classes : (a) Under 1,000 cc (on Friday afternoon); (b) 1,000-2,000 cc ; (c) Over 2.000 cc, limit 4,000 cc.

These three races would last 3 hours each. As they are short, each car would only require one driver ; this would divide the number of necessary drivers by half. The fact that there would be three races would mean that this fraction could be cut again by 33 per cent and so only 17 per cent of last year’s number would be required. This arrangement would also prevent a repeat of last year’s disaster, because the situation caused by having a pack of cars travelling at different speeds would not arise. It would also render the course comparatively safe, for with the barring of novice drivers, Dundrod would be as safe as any other British circuit and safer than most on the Continent.

Hoping for a return of “our” TT.

I am, Yours, etc,

CJP Radcliffe. Bangor, Co Down.