Thursday, September 14, 2006

The Race gets Tighter as TARGA Newfoundland 2006 nears the end, can Swain and Bell hold onto their Lead?

The day started early this morning for Team TARGA Corvette as they made the long transit from Clarenville, to the Burin Peninsula on the south east coast of Newfoundland. Fortunately, the storm had left behind clear skies and dry roads for the day ahead.

The yellow Corvette is a favorite in the Burin Peninsula after causing quite a stir last year when the Swain and Bell jumped the car over “thrill hill”. The boys played it cool this year, as their goal this year was to complete each stage flawlessly, and avoid undue damage to the car.

Thus far, the race for class leader has been a tough battle with Mark Swain (driver) and Mike Bell (navigator) in the Chevrolet Corvette Z06, leading by only seconds over Keith Townsend (driver) and Jen Horsey (navigator) in the Subaru WRX.

After some complex stages this morning the battle for 1st was even closer. Lunch was spent in the picturesque town of Burin, and it was a welcomed opportunity to meet the local townsfolk, check over the cars, and enjoy the sunshine. Below: Swain takes a minute to adjust their QA1 shocks for the bumpy roads ahead, while Bell diligently inspects his notes for the afternoon stages on the grassy shores of Newfoundland.

The long days and challenging stages are beginning to wear on the competitors of this event. With tomorrow bringing the longest day consisting of 10 stages (including some brand new runs), the race becomes a test of endurance and preparation. Regular maintenance and safe driving tactics are keeping the Team TARGA Corvette performing well. Going into the final day of this event Swain and Bell have maintained their lead, but with only a 2-second gap between 1st and 2nd place, anything could happen tomorrow!

Team TARGA Corvette appreciates the support of:
Mobil 1
Cole Engineering
Wilson Niblett Chevrolet
Hickman Motors
Inside Track Motorsport news.
Carbotech Brakes
Be sure to check http://www.targanewfoundland.com/ for more information tomorrow.

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