Why no spec classes in the UK?

[Chris Elworthy]

Hi lads,

Was just wondering whether anybody can speculate why in this country at 10th off road meetings from club to national level we run exclusively modified classes?
Obviously my comparison is with the USA where at all levels of racing you can choose modified or one of the spec blinky classes such as 10.5 and 13.5 motors. As many of you will agree with the current speed of the equipment available is really far beyond the control, certainly of the newer drivers but even seasoned drivers struggle to tame the power but continue with the powerplant in the risk of not keeping up.
Other than a talented few youngsters most fail to really master full car control and be able to then focus on improving driving style and racing lines as they are just too aggressive when running 7.5/6.5 motors especially in 4wd cars which can be plain dangerous to marshals etc.
As you may already have worked out I'm suggesting that it would be better for all if at least one spec motor class was to become common accross the country designed as a entry level class for drivers to learn but also a highly competitive class for the clubman who doesn't have a huge budget/sponsorship assistantance.

Obviously the formation of new classes/rules filters down from national level where it's currently a single class. I'm sure a reason why the BRCA wouldn't like the idea of running a spec national class alongside modified is that it would dilute the quality of the modified class but I'm not too sure. There have been spec classes in 10th onroad for years giving an option for drivers to compete nationally against people of similar ability without factory support, I believe there are similar classes offered in 1/8th IC too.

In my opinion there is a sense that you are just making the numbers up for the 30 or so potential A finalists and you disappear into the midfield of qualifying. Of course the standard is still good at national level even to the lower finals but it doesn't have the same kudos as qualifying for an A final in your respective class.

I'm aware that things are highly unlikely to change at national level but I'm interested to hear people's views on the subject.



Chris