Powertour

[David McManus]

After experiencing PowerTour for the first time this weekend, when it visited Castle Combe, I am struggling to understand why it's being dropped at the end of this season.

There was some very close racing, particularly in the Formula Ford and Ford Fiesta races. I thought the Fiestas were brilliant, with lead changes all the way through to the last lap.

I also enjoyed the Formula 3 races, although I was sick of the sight of them on qalifying day with a free practice session in addition to their 2 qualifying sessions. It was great to see the lap record go under 1 minute for the first time on the new configuration.

I didn't expect the GTs to retain my interest for the full hour, but a safety car period helping the 2nd placed Lister catch up a 27 second deficit (about half a lap @ Combe!) to eventually take the win.

The Tuscans had visited before, and I was disappointed as the grids were smaller than in previous visits.

It was unfortunate the Porsches had to pull out, for reasons which have been discussed elsewhere.

I particularly enjoyed all the added "extras", which we don't usually get at Combe, track and air displays, bands, coach tours round the track, and of course the podium and champagne ceremony.

I hope that the replacement, whatever it may be, visits Combe next year with a similar lineup of top national racing.

Has anyone heard what will be happening to F3 and GT next season?