|
This year's Network Q Rally of Great Britain has been designed to be the most convenient yet for spectator viewing and crowd control. Just seven forest stages will be used in the November 14-17 event, but many will be run and then repeated on the same day, encouraging fans to find a preferred spectator area and stay there. Organisers have even introduced a new refuel area to speed up the cars' return to stages. The popular Cardiff Superspecial will be used 3 times - as a curtain-raiser on the Thursday evening, and then as a day-closing spectacular on Friday and Saturday. More controversially, the entry will be limited to 90 cars, leaving many British club drivers without the chance to compete in their country's world championship round. RallyGB officials believe that the new format will allow spectators to enjoy more action, while enabling them to maximise their use of marshals and safety support. Spectator issues have been raised in recent years, particularly following Carlos Sainz's accident last year which left several fans hospitalised. RallyGB sporting manager Andrew Kellitt said "The route has been planned with spectator safety and management first and foremost. It allows us to make best use of our human and material resources. We've also put a lot of thought into the timing of the rally to ensure that spectators will be able to watch all of the leading cars in daylight." Alister McRae's co-driver David Senior said the route had "clearly been designed for spectators", but he had concerns about fading light playing a part in the result. "Some of the forest stages are still running quite late in the afternoon," he said, "and with reverse seeding we could see the leaders hampered because they simply run out of light. The repetition of stages is going to be good for spectators, but I wonder about spending such a long time away from service on the Saturday." World championship teams are also curious about the plans for a Saturday "refuel and regroup". Privately, most admit that they will have to send motorhomes, mechanics, doctors and physios to the Sennybridge area anyway, potentially increasing costs. Ticketing details for the event are expected to be released within the next six weeks. from Autosport issue May 2 2002 |
.