Doug revels, David regroups
Published:Sunday | August 14, 2011 | 12:00 AM
Glenroy Sinclair, Assignment Coordinator
Each time Doug Gore turns up at the track to contest an event, it costs him and his team at least $200,000. And, this figure is likely to climb based on plans to upgrade his super racing machine to respond to whatever his rival David Summerbell will drive at the upcoming Heroes' Day meet at Dover Raceway.
"I know David (Summerbell) is going to come with blood in his eyes, but we are not (going) to clean up the car (Audi TT), put in the garage and wait. No way!," said Gore, who intends to repeat his performance at last Sunday's Independence of Speed race meet.
It was a performance that left hundreds of motorsport fans stunned. Gore, the Montego Bay-based driver, silenced critics who felt he needed more time to learn how to handle the Audi, which is one of the world's fastest-growing premium car brand.
With the help of a German specialist and his ATL team, Gore came good and got the better of Summerbell in his Mitsubishi Evolution 8. Gore registered an hat-trick of wins in the Thundersport II and Modified Production 4 classes. He also set a new track record of 1.18.11.
At last Tuesday's presentation ceremony held at The Jamaica Pegasus hotel in New Kingston, Gore and his jubilant supporters celebrated with champagne. The festivities continued into Friday night with a special social organised by the group.
Gracious in defeat
Like a true sportsman, Summerbell has taken his loss gracefully. He was, however, quick to warn that he would be back.
"I am coming back for the track record and the championship points," declared Summerbell, who is now preparing to represent Jamaica in the second leg of the Caribbean Motor Racing Championship in Barbados later this month.
He has since secured the sponsorship of an overseas-based company, Stack Ltd, which will assist with upgrading his equipment.
"I am not making an excuse, but the car had a serious braking problem. The guys (mechanics) have since found the cause and it is being addressed. It is a work in progress," said Summerbell.