Part 2
Friday was the most leisurely start to the day as Dyfnant was the last stage of the morning loop. On arrival at our usual hairpin it was noticeable how many of the marshals were huddled together rather than spread out along a section. Throughout the event it was clear that the 'once a year' marshals were there to get a good viewpoint rather than actually contribute to safety, often they had an obviously under age kid or their sig oth with them, wearing a tabard but performing no useful function. The experienced marshals we met were friendly and relaxed as they could quite clearly see we were in safe positions. The 000 car thanked us a number of times.
Anyway, at Dyfnant 00 car had to stop to tell the marshals to move away from the red taped area on the outside of the hairpin. They didn't, which resulted in the radio controller having to come from his location to ensure they did. Just as well! Sunninen got it entirely wrong and almost went the way of Kruuda a few years ago. As it was he demolished the tape posts and came to rest against a tree - lucky for him and lucky for the marshals! Ogier, Tanak and Neuville were all smooth and quick through the hairpin but it was interesting how many WRC drivers were taking poor lines, particularly the 2 works Citroens. I have a pic of Meeke's line I'm thinking of sending him. Interesting how the nose end first approach was worth at least a second on this single bend.
The top 4 WRC2 competitors all looked to be trying very hard - we thought Lappi and Sunninen would both suffer more damage and we're quite surprised to see them both in contention on Sunday morning.
Moved to a different corner for the Nationals and the pm run. With delays the light was quickly fading by the start of SS6 so we got the spectacle of light pods and glowing brake disks - just magic.
A long drive to Borth followed - arriving in time to get an Indian take away and a hostel-sold beer.