Hawkstone ready for GP of GB finale
By G2F on 15th May 07
PREPARATIONS for the T+MX Grand Prix of Great Britain to be held at Hawkstone Park on July 28/ 29 are gathering pace, with just over 75-days remaining before the famous Shropshire venue welcomes the most skilful two-wheel riders on the planet for the third and final time. Event promoters L+M Events, headed up by Martin Lampkin as course director and Jake Miller, who is in charge of the overall event management, have been hard at work to deliver a showpiece finale to mark the end of their three-year agreement with the FIM.
Speaking about the forthcoming event, Martin Lampkin stated: I think it is fair to say that the last two years at Hawkstone have been a big success, both for the riders and the public. It would be easy to sit back and do the same again, but we really want to create something different this year, so that we can go out with a real bang, so to speak.
Both of the original man-made sections have been moved to totally new locations, to create two new hazards that will be a real sting in the tail for the riders and will create a great climax for the spectators.
The course is even shorter than before to make it even more spectator friendly. There will be two main groups of sections on the hillside plus the final two hazards back near the main stage, so you will be able to see ten of the 15 sections without walking more than 100-meters from the start.
Also, by running the course in completely the opposite direction, means we have been able to reverse many of the sections, as well as adding in some new stuff. Even I am excited, and that doesn't happen very often!
Continuing the theme of change, the trial will have a new main area, with the start/ finish stage, factory trucks and closing two sections all located in a compact and central spot close to the main action. This has enabled more space for a larger trade area, which will accommodate all the major UK trials companies including the official importers and biggest dealers/ wholesalers.
The new layout is a result of what we have learnt over the past two-years, explains Jake Miller. We wanted to create better spectator viewing without losing any of the atmosphere, and I think the changes we have made will really help in this respect. The format we have used has worked well and has been at the heart of the success we have enjoyed over the last two editions, but we really are focused on taking it to an even higher level this time around.
Realistically this is probably going to be Dougie Lampkin's last ever home Grand Prix, so its only right we deliver an event that is worthy of the occasion. Let's just hope every off-road fan has got the date marked in their diary and is going to be there to give Britain's most successful off-road rider ever the farewell he so richly deserves.
The T+MX Grand Prix of Great Britain will take place over two-days once again, with the trial itself taking place throughout Sunday.
Saturday's programme will be packed with autograph sessions with the top riders, official practice and an extended version of the Mini Masters trial, which was received so well on its introduction last year. Adding extra weight to Saturday, and new for 2007, will be public test sessions, with all the manufacturers pledging their support to supply bikes and personnel so visitors can actually ride the latest trials models more details regarding this unique opportunity will be released shortly.
For the first time ever entrance tickets can be bought online, with great discount on advance bookings being available from today. To book tickets, reserve a pitch on site camping or obtain full event info visit www.ukworldtrial.com
Trade, sponsorship or those with general enquiries should call 0161-705-2075.