The Chichester Motoring Club’s Trentham “200” rally in 1963 was a significant event in the southern England motorsports scene. This article delves into the historical details of the rally, highlighting the challenging course, impressive driver turnout, and the controversy surrounding the results. While car tuning in Chichester may have evolved significantly since then, this event showcases the enduring passion for motorsports in the region.
The Trentham “200”: A Challenging Rally
The 1963 Trentham “200” was a demanding rally, known for its grueling course and the fact that no competitor had ever finished without penalties. Cliff Turk, the route planner, designed the first half to be relatively easier, allowing novice drivers to reach the supper stop. However, the second half presented a much tougher challenge.
The rally attracted a record 69 entries from across southern England, a testament to its popularity and the competitive spirit of the era. Among the notable participants were Doug Ray and Stuart Gray, the leading contenders for the Association of Central Southern Motor Club’s championship. Other prominent drivers included John Dorton and Martin Holmes from Vickers Armstrong, Sydney Allard and Tom Fisk, and even Sir Peter Moon, the BMC works driver, competing in a personal vehicle. The diverse range of clubs represented, including the Sporting Volkswagen Club, underscored the broad appeal of the event.
Chichester Motoring Club’s Triumph and Controversy
Despite the fierce competition, a Chichester crew emerged victorious, with John Barnes and his navigator Tony Pettie taking the provisional first place. This local victory added to the prestige of the Chichester Motoring Club. However, the results were not without controversy.
Provisional second place went to Chris Lovell and Roger Hedley of the Sussex Car Club, followed by Jon Otton and Tony Weaver of BARC in third. The favored team of Doug Ray and Stuart Gray finished a surprising fourth. This unexpected outcome added to the drama of the event.
Peter Noad, a member of the Sporting Volkswagen Club who finished 19th provisionally, lodged a protest regarding a penalty he received for allegedly missing a control. He insisted he had passed through the control, leading to a discussion by the club committee. This incident highlighted the importance of accurate timekeeping and control point management in rally racing.
A Lasting Legacy
Beyond the competition, the 1963 Trentham “200” was praised for its excellent organization, particularly the clear instructions provided to all participating crews. The rally’s enduring legacy is a testament to the dedication and passion of the Chichester Motoring Club and the enduring allure of motorsports in the region. Even news of Mike Ford, the clerk of the course for the rally, emigrating to Australia the following year, was reported in the local paper, demonstrating the community’s connection to the event.
While specific details about the cars used in the rally remain elusive, the event serves as a reminder of the rich history of car tuning and motorsports in Chichester. This dedication to performance and precision continues to thrive in the area today.
