Brief report on this years ADI, before I fall asleep in front of the recorded F1!!:
Friday evening saw some delays (Ang & I were just in time for 7.30pm dinner, but Hotstuff & gang were delayed until very late by all sorts of accidents and roadworks on our glorious motorway network), then a lacklustre meal at the Hilton followed, pretty bland food and ridiculously priced drinks (£9.75 for a glass of wine!!!).
Then it was to bed in readiness for the early start on Saturday.
The turnout at the car park on Dunns Lane was as impressive as ever - not record breaking but in these recessionary times, 15 cars was a great sight to see.
We had a new position on the hard-standing at the circuit (where TT-OC were last year) and I think it was a better position overall - plenty of space for us and it was easy to arrange cars and A2OC flags to promote out presence.
As usual, I didn't really stop all day, but took a little time out to look around (several new stands this year, including Michelin and A1 Club) and have a brief look at the track action with R8GTs going round and some pretty impressive Mk2 TTs. One poor Skoda caught fire though, but the driver was OK.
The parade lap was restricted to club stand cars only this year, which meant that there was more track space, which was good and overall, I think that this year was better organised than previous years.
Then back to the Hilton, where we had a wash and brush up, then in convoy to a little eatery in Hook. Great food, great company and a good time had by all. I had to leave a little early as I'd arranged to be back at the Hilton for the awards part of the evening.
I'm pleased to report that the gala room was a much more civilised place this year - the organisation apparent at the track had been transferred to the awards. There were fewer people there than usual (a couple of tables down, which is basically our presence from past years), but overall, the behaviour was very good.
I am pleased to report that we were honoured with a Gold Award for 'Best Club - Information'.
I actually Tweeted a running commentary for the awards - if you follow 'audiodoody' you'll get to see the list of winners in full.
Then, nightcaps in the foyer and bed after a long and very good day.
Thanks to Mike-Sumo and David-Riverlad for their organisation, to all the stand attendees for making the effort to turn up and support the club, to Peter, Neil, Sally and all the other behind the scenes folk at AutoMetrix for putting the event on in the first place and to everyone at A2OC who voted and helped to secure the award.
Cheers,
Mike
PS The draw for the magazine subscription did not take place as usual, mainly because I was too busy, but also because I forgot! Also, Ben couldn't be there on the day, and as it's him that pays the A2OC bills, then there was little point. We've got all the details of those who made club stand donations and an impartial draw will take place soon, on Bens return from America.
