ECONOMY RUN – Sunday 25th April

Unfortunately, the weather wasn?t all that kind to us for our annual Economy Run with passing showers and cold, wintry conditions spoiling some of the fun. However, sports car owners are hardy folk and Ian and Carol Mallows endured it all, roofless in the Lotus Elan and staying dry by keeping on moving. They were also the first car home with half an hour to spare and recorded the best fuel economy of 62.4 mpg or 4.52 l/100km ? an outstanding result.

This years 168km route began in Warragul with full tanks and took our nine teams out towards Poowong East along the Torwood-Topirum Road before joining the South Gippsland Highway for some easy driving through Korumburra and Leongatha, and then on to Dumbalk. From there it was a scenic drive to Boolarra before heading back up the hill to Mirboo North where most teams enjoyed a short break for morning tea. It was then across to Thorpdale and Childers before taking Sunny Creek Road back to the Princes Highway near Trafalgar. The route then followed the highway into Yarragon before heading south on Hazeldean Road and Parkers Road to Bona Vista where it crossed the highway at Nilma and followed the Queens Street extension back into Warragul. Teams were given three hours to complete the course, so they needed to keep their average speeds up especially as most decided to have a break en route. An unexpected flat tyre and wheel change on the Youlden/Riley C63 caused them some angst time-wise, but Ray reports that the space-saver spare can cope with speeds well above the recommended 80km/h.

The results tell most of the story, but there?s always excuses. Merv believes that he failed to completely fill the Mustang before heading off, and Richard blames Libby for sending him 5 miles down the wrong road and wasting fuel. Peter Bradley can?t believe the Rover V8 in the MGB is that thirsty as he drove so conservatively during the event!

The surprise result is that of Peter and Annette Willmott?s V6 Calais ? a heavy car, but still returning excellent economy. Second place was a tight battle between the BRZ of Alan and Marg Humphreys and Alan Stoker?s Boxster. In the end there was only 0.7 litres of fuel in it. Glen and Pam Campbell almost overstayed their gourmet break, making it to finish with only seconds to spare. Glen was not surprised with the M3?s result, saying that it returns that same figure no matter how it?s driven.

The results were announced during the picnic lunch in Warragul?s Burke Street Park before everyone made their own way home. An enjoyable drive with a bit of friendly competition thrown in.

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COMMENTS:

Rick

Some incredible results there - at both ends of the spectrum!

Ric Adams

Thanks Steve for another great even. A great route.