Harley Jack and Michael Carlton 2nd in XRCC Round 2
After overcoming some massive hurdles to make the event, Harley and Micka placed 2nd in Outlaw class and 3rd overall in XRCC Round 2 at Rover Park, NSW.
With a ‘to fix’ list that included fabricating a new driveshaft and getting the big Rover V8 firing again, the boys set about their tasks of being ready with steadfast determination. That determination saw them complete their tasks in Brisbane at 2am on the morning of the comp, and with a 4 hour drive ahead of them, they set off into the fog drenched night.
The ‘Sticky Mickys’ were, unfortunately, retired before the competition began due to a beadlocked rim failing, so the boys had to acquire another set of rubber in order to compete. Rock Hammer Racing’s long time friend, and Get Hammered Buddy, Grimace (aka AnthonyP) unwittingly allowed the use of his brand new 39.5” Super Swamper Iroks. First impressions were encouraging. The extra ground clearance and rolling diameter would be put to use, but the compound was not in the same league as the Mickey Thompson Comp Spec Claws.
Day 1 saw some awesome action with at least 5 roll overs. Mean Mr Metcalfe set out 2 very technical courses amongst the rocks and water traps, and managed to keep all competitors on their toes. With the buggy running at less than ideal, the boys DNF’d stage one by a few seconds, but the signs were good. The Iroks, not noted for their wet weather performance, struggled to find grip through the water traps and mud and the Rover V8’s ignition woes resurfaced. Stage 2 saw a drier track and a big smile from the boys, but a broken engine mount on the driver’s side caused the big Rock Hammer buggy to flop on its side during a steep, twisting, down hill, right hand turn. The engine moved sideways enough to pull on the accelerator cable and Harley just couldn’t manage to save it in time. Day 1 was over…but the boys were far from done.
Day 2 saw MMM set up in the area usually reserved for the harder comps like W.E. Rock and Put Up or Shut Up. He meant business this time. Course 3 was tight and technical with very few forgiving lines. The boys had lost front dig capabilities after the heavy roll in Bathurst, and this was a course that would demand it. Only 1 cone was hit though – a champion effort by driver Harley and spotter, Micka.
Course 4 was long. Severe break over angles and massive cross slopes dominated the landscape. Mean Mr Metcalfe was declaring war. The boys were pumped for a big finish and knew that this was no time for preserving the buggy. With the Iroks scrabbling for traction and Micka peppering Harley with instructions at a rate that would rival a Tommy gun, the Rock Hammer boys cleared the course with only 3 back ups, and no cones.
A big congratulations to Harley and Micka for a top effort in difficult circumstances. No front dig. Poor steering lock. Tyres that were out of their comfort zone. And they still secured a podium finish for Rock Hammer Racing.
