The 2016 event was a first Chateau Impney Hill Climb for experienced competitor Rod, who has been hill climbing since 1970.
“The hill is very technical and very challenging. It’s difficult because you have to anticipate the corners and brake before you see them.”
Rod was pleased to have knocked a second off each run, until his final run, when he missed a gear and ended up a second slower. Luckily, his first run of 46.37 was enough to win the class by more than two seconds. The Pre-1961 Racing Cars over 1500cc class was incredibly close, with just 0.2 seconds separating second and fifth place.
Despite having many podium finishes in the Monzanopolis over the years, Rod didn’t expect to win the class.
“I’m never confident of victory and never take anything for granted. Winning the class isn't the be all and end all, but it's nice when it happens. As long as I get the best I can out of myself and the car, I'm happy."
