France is fast out the blocks for another track trophy

It was a tough set of races from the start for the pair, who were up against a large and experienced grid of drivers.

The first race saw Rice spin out early on the pit bend. He recovered and re-joined the race, but on the next lap he was spun out again. After a stoppage for a loose wheel on the track, the restart was the signal for some extremely fast and aggressive racing. After some consistent laps France came home in fifth place.

Race two followed the same pattern. Rice was once again spun out by a rival, this time on the Hailsham bend. Once again he stuck his Triumph into gear and continued his race.

Coming down the back straight, he found himself spun out once more, but this time stranded facing the oncoming traffic.

As the leaders came around the corner, the second-placed driver was obscured by Rice’s 368 car, and had some air time landing on the infield. Despite this mishap, Rice’s Triumph made yet another comeback to finish in an amazing eighth position.

Meanwhile Gentleman Jack was going about his business as usual, finishing third.

The final was a hectic affair and was halted twice. Rice had to retire halfway through, but with each restart France’s luck improved. From sixth, he went to second and then clear out front.

Using his experience and guile, he was never going to be caught. In the end he came across the line to win at a canter.

MICHAEL BURNAGE