The No Limits Bike Racing Championship made its formal Return to the World Famous Brands Hatch Grand Prix Circuit for a Very Special 8 Hour Endurance Race.

 

Each and Every Team Had a selection of High Powered Racing Machinery that would along with the Rider take on the Might of Brands Hatches' Grand Prix Circuit for a Gruelling 8 Hours Straight.

 

While Some Teams had as many as Four Riders to make the job a Little Bit Easier other Teams Had decided to go with just Two Riders for 4 Hours Each knowing they Had the Skills and Determination to Keep Racing Hard.

 

The Championship was in is Last Race of the Season here at Brands and Whoever Won this Final Event would take the No Limits Bike Racing Championship Crown.

 

Qualifying was up First and setting the Pace at the Top of the Timings was (Andelle Leathers / RatMally Graphic) on their Kawasaki 998/Kawasaki 1000 Racing Bikes with an Incredible Time of 1.31.846 and a Top Speed of 95.37 to take Pole at The Start of the Race.

 

In Second Place was (Delkevic Racing) Kawasaki 1000/BMW 1000/Kawasaki 1000 Yamaha 1000 Racing Bikes with a Lap Time of 1.31.784 and a Top Speed of 95.34mph.

 

In Third Place was (Earnshaw's Motorcycles) BMW 1000/BMW 1000 Racing Bikes with A Lap Time of 1.32.099 and an Top Speed of 95.11mph.

 

With Qualifying Over and a 11:46am Start Fast Approaching all of the Riders to head out for the First 2 Hours. Just like Old School Le Mans the Riders all Lined Up on the Opposite Side of the Pitlane with their Respective Teams Holding onto the Bikes Ready for them to Blast off into the Distance around the Circuit.

 

A Loud Bang from the Calcian Signalled the Start of an 8 Hour Endurance Race and each Rider Ran Towards their Bikes Fired them Up and Set off onto the Race Track.

 

During the First Hour All Riders Made it through the First Opening Laps without any Problems and already many of them were getting up to Speed while some other Riders Preferred to nurse their Machinery for the First Hour to Avoid anything Breaking or Failing on thease High Powered Machines.

 

As Hour two Approached Everyone was still going strong and The Riders were Each Getting into a Really Good Rhythm of the Grand Prix circuit while other Teams had opted to Head to the pits to swap Riders and Give themselves more of a chance to take Victory with a selection of different Talents and Bikes available.

 

The Start of Hour Three saw a lot of Different Battles Going on thought the field and on the Back Straight there was some Close Wheel to Wheel Action Between Every Rider traveling at Speeds close to Nearly 100mph. Some Riders were Pushing so Hard that Even their Front Wheels Rose into the Air Making for some Epic and Thrilling Moments. An Overtake by Rider Number 97 on 36 was the Highlight so Far.

 

Hour Four and Still Each Rider was not Giving Up on the Chance of Victory with Half of the Endurance Race Completed by Now it was Time for Another Rider Change and with Many Teams Heading for the Pits Once Again Each New Rider Ventured Out onto the Brands Hatch GP Circuit it Beautiful Sunlit Conditions Although thease Must Have Been Playing Havoc with the Visibility for the Riders. Non the Less After Just One Retirement Earlier Due to an Engine Fire and a Marshall that should Have Really Been More Prepared. the Remaining Riders Soldered on.

 

The Fifth Hour was now Upon them and after a Very Hectic and Fast set of Laps Earlier Many Riders were setting down into their Positions to make sure the Bike they were on would Survive to the End. Druids was a Place to witness some Incredible Overtakes During this Time with the Light Levels Lowering and The Riders Really Looking like they were Pushing Hard and Encouraging their Machines to solder onto Victory.

 

Hour Six and with the Light Levels Now Falling even Lower it looked like this Endurance Race would be Ending in Nearly Dark Conditions as the Rider Kept on Going. The Few Retirement's Earlier on during Hour 2 and 3 were now just a Memory in the Surviving Riders Minds who all had One Goal in Mind. Get This Bike to the End of The Race.

 

Hour Seven and by now the Light was Nearly all But Gone with the Last Rays of Sunshine Disappearing Entirely from the Tops of Druids and yet Despite this now disadvantage i terms of Having a lot less light The Riders Still Continued to Push Hard and Fight their was To Victory in the Closing Stages as the Race Reached its Climax.

 

The Final Hour was Finally here and Every Rider who Had Been Concentrating Hard all Day was Now in a Position to Push Hard for that Final Hour of Glory that would mean the Difference Between either a Race Victory or a Race Loss. As The Minuets Slowly Ticked Down and The Last Light of Day Had been Long Extinguished from the Circuit. it was the Team of (Delkevic Racing's Liam Marchant / Gary Johnson / James Edwards and Luke Scott who took a Resounding Victory after 232 Laps and a Gruelling 8 Hour's of Racing 2 For Each of The Riders. Congratulations Delkevic Racing an Incredible Achievement.

 

In Second Place was The Team of (Earnshaw's Motorcycles Jonathan Lodge and James Lodge) after 232 Laps and 4 Hour's Between Them a Super Effort and Very Well Deserved Second Place Battle Through some Very Tough Competitors.

 

In Third Place was (Josh Daley Racing/RC Express by Dafabet Josh Daley and Rob Hodson) after a Very Hard and Gruelling 231 Laps in the Seat of Their Racing Bikes. Amazing Work Josh Daley Racing Incredible Ride and a Very Well Deserved Third Place.

 

An Exceptional Day of Endurance Racing from the No Limits Bike Racing Championship with Delkevic Racing's Liam Marchant / Gary Johnson / James Edwards and Luke Scott Taking The Final Victory of the Season with Datasys Racing Mark Daines / Jeremy Watson / Johnny Panter and Joe Higham taking The Championship for 2021.

 

A Big Congratulations to all of the Riders who took Part in this Event in my Opinion you Made everyone who Races in the Bennet's British Super Bike Championship look like Amateurs. You Guys are the Real Deal and am Really Looking forward to Watching this Epic Race all over Again Next Year. Until Then Keep Racing and Never Give Up Hope of One Day Standing on the Top Step of the Podium.

      

American Speedfest 8 Returned to Brands Hatch for another Fantastic American themed weekend Featuring the likes of Euro Nascar Legends and even Angelo American Formula 5000's Racing this weekender event was shaping up to be a good one.

 

The First Day was mostly focused on Qualifying with many of the Races taking Place on the Sunday. Each of the Teams was both busy in the outer Paddock and the Pitlane getting their cars ready for a shakedown session in which they would have to Qualify to see who could be the Fastest and take Pole Position for each of the Races come Sunday.

 

Angelo American Formula 5000

 

The Formula 5000's made a Thunderous return to the Brands Hatch circuit, Built during a time where many Formula 1 cars from the likes of Lotus Williams and McLaren we using Ground Effect and pushing up the speeds of their cars.

 

Formula 5000's took speeds to a whole new level by using V8 Engines to power their cars which were found to be even faster than those Formula 1 cars of that era on the straights of different race tracks. Chevron B37's and McRae GM1'S were amongst the field and Qualifying looked to be very close indeed.

 

In First Place taking Pole Position and The Fastest Lap was (Neil Glover) in his Chevron B37 with a Lap Time of 47.039 with an average speed of 92.44mph. An Insanely Fast Lap Time for Brands Hatches Indy Circuit.

 

In Second Place was (Mark Campfield) in his Chevron B24 with A Lap Time Of 47.694 and an Average Speed of 91.17mph still Impressively quick for Chevron Power.

 

In Third Place was (Greg Thornton) in his Chevron B24 with A Lap Time Of 47.775 with an Average Speed of 91.02mph showing the power of the Chevron Engine through every turn.

 

A Tightly Packed Grid for Sundays Race and it looks like its a Chevron Front Row lockout but who's car will have the power to Triumph over the others? only time will tell.

 

Bernie's Sports And V8's

 

Bernie's V8's were up next and showcased a lot of Impressive V8 Powered Machinery on the grid. Talbot Sunbeams, Austin Healey's and even MGB GT V8 powered Machinery hitting the Track during Qualifying. Lets see what V8 Power can do and which Drivers managed to tame the Beasts and make it into the top three.

 

In First Place Taking Pole Position and the Fastest Lap was the Duo of (Elis Mar/Elis Mat) in their Talbot Sunbeam Lotus with a Lap Time of 54.533 and an Average speed of 79.74mph. Fast and Furious Driving on display once again.

 

In Second Place was (James Plant) in his Austin Healey 106 with a Lap Time of 54.964 and an Average Speed of 79.11mph. Very Quick and Consistent Laps seen from James behind the wheel too.

 

In Third Place was the Duo of (Can/Wilson) in their Aston Martin V8 Vantage with a lap time of 55.397 and an Average speed of 78.49mph. Showing just how much power and Grunt that Aston has.

 

Another Fantastic set of V8 Powered Machines on Display showing the true power of the American Built V8'S and how they changed the game in terms of Racing and Road Going Cars. Who will win the Race on Sunday. Will have to wait and see.

 

Legends Cars Championship

 

Referred to as the Little Pocket Rockets these small Looking Cars may not loo like they have anything Special to offer but just wait until you see what these little Wolves in Sheep's clothing can do once out on the Track.

 

Using Motorbike Engines of 1200cc they Really do show on Track just how lightweight and fast they are and Slip Streaming is commonly a way of being able to Achieve a Faster Lap time by using the Driver in fronts Slip Stream to aid in the Aerodynamics of the Car and Reduce Drag. Lets see what Happened during Qualifying Heat 2

 

In First Place Taking Pole and Setting The Fastest Lap was (Chris Dewey) in his Legend with a Lap Time Of 56.700 with an Average Speed of 76.69mph. Crazy Fast for Something so small and yet very Agile in Control.

 

In Second Place was (Stephen Whitelegg) in his Legend 34 Ford Coupe with a Lap Time of 56.740 and an Average Speed of 76.64mph. First And Second look to be very close together Thanks to the aids in Slip Streaming down the Brabham Straight to gain positions or Fastest Laps.

 

In Third Place was (Miles Rudman) in his Legend 34 Coupe with a Lap Time Of 56.878. Very Close between the Top three and it just goes to show how Important Slip Streaming is to Gain an Advantage in this Qualifying Session.

 

Exciting Stuff Ahead of The

Legends Races on Sunday where One of the Drivers will Win the Race and Take the Victory, Who Will it be? Only Time Will Tell.

 

Nascar Whelen Euro Series-Pro

 

The Main Highlight Event of the Day and the Nascar's with their Thunderous Powered V8 Engines Roared onto the Indy Circuit and with Two Formation Laps Completed to Warm Up the Tyres every car was released to Start Qualifying. Lets See How the Grid Will Shape Up.

 

In First Place to Take Pole and The Fastest Lap was (Alon Day) in his Chevrolet Camaro Caal Racing with a Lap Time of 48.903 and an Average Speed of 88.92mph. I wonder if Marty McFly and Dock Brown were part of their Race Team to Achieve that Impressive Lap Time? Non the Less Amazing Work by Alon Day.

 

In Second Place was (Loris Hezemans) in his Ford Mustang Hedrik's Motorsport) with a Lap Time of 49.000 and an Average Speed of 88.74mph. Another Fast and Consistent Lap From Loris showing the Balance Between Driver and Car.

 

In Third Place was (Nicolo Rocca) in his Chevrolet Camaro DF1 Racing) with A Lap Time of 49.292 and an Average Speed of 88.22mph. All Three Drivers seem to be very close in terms of Lap Times and this will make for some Exciting Racing Come Race Day.

 

Close and Competitive Racing in Nascar-Pro but who will have the Power to Push even Harder and take Home The Victory come Race Day. We will have to wait and See.

 

EuroNascar-2

 

Euro Nascar-2 is A a series of Slightly Lower Tuned Nascar's that Features as a Way of Getting Drivers ready to head to the Big Time Nascar Racing that takes Place at Daytona and Indianapolis.

 

Drivers must First Prove themselves worthy by Starting out from the Bottom and Only The Best Drivers in the World can make it into Nascar's Top Level Racing Teams.

 

Lets See how the Grid Lines up and see who managed to Qualify the Fastest and take Pole Position.

 

In First Place and Taking Pole Position and The Fastest Lap was (Advait DeoDHar) in his Ford Mustang Caal Racing with A Lap Time Of 49.918 and An Average Speed of 87.11mph. A Really Well Controlled Lap and a very Focused Mind to Achieve such a Drive.

 

In Second Place was (Tobias Dauenhauer) in his Ford Mustang Hendriks Motorsport with a Lap Time Of 50.110 and an Average Speed Of 86.78mph. Really Well Done and a very Quick Driver and Car underneath Him.

 

In Third Place was (Justin Kunz ) in his Chevrolet Camaro DF1 Racing with A Lap Time Of 50.161. Very Fast and Consistent with the Top Three all Very Close and Ready to take on the Race and see who can Battle and Fight for a Victory.

 

An Exciting Qualifying Session for both Nascar-Pro and Euro Nascar-2 with Each set of Driver Showing the Speed Power and Machinery of the Great American State. Looking Forward To Seeing what Happens During The Race.

 

Pickup Trucks Championship

 

The Pickup Trucks Returned to Brands Hatch for Another High Speed Weekend of Flat Out Racing around the Indy Circuit. With Light Weight Chassis and Powerful Engines it was shaping up to be a very Large and Competitive Grid for Pickup Trucks.

 

In First Place Taking Pole Position and the Fastest Lap was (Reece Jones) in his Pick Up Truck 2000 with a Lap Time of 52.634 with an Average Speed of 82.61mph.

 

In Second Place was (George Turiccki) in his Pickup Truck 2000 with A Lap Time of 52.706mph and an average speed of 82.50mph.

 

In Third Place was (Mark Willis) in his Pickup Truck 2000 with A Lap Time of 52.976 and an Average Speed of 82.08mph.

 

Three Very Quick and Capable Drivers all Fighting for the Victory In Tomorrow's Race but who will be up to the challenge of Taking 1st Place and Winning. Only One Way To Find Out.

 

Speedfest Silhouettes

 

Formally Known as the Silhouettes the Super Silhouettes Brought with them some fast and impressive Space Frame Machinery to the track.

 

With Aero Packages and Light Weight Monacock Chassis these Monsters were going to be something Amazing to watch Race.

 

But First Lets See how Qualifying Shapes up.

 

In First Place Taking Pole and The Fastest Lap was (Ray Harris in his Ginetta G40r with a Lap Time of 50.564 and an Average speed of 86.00mph. Either Crazy or Insane I would Describe that Incredible Lap of Brands. Amazing Work.

 

In Second Place was (Malcom Blackman) in his Vauxhall Tigra with A Lap Time of 50.805 and an Average Speed of 85.59mph Another Crazy Quick and on the Edge Lap.

 

In Third Place was (Lewis Smith) in his Mercedes SLK with a Lap Time of 51.313 and an Average Speed of 84.74mph. Three Very Fast and Capable Drivers in this Qualifying Session.

 

Incredible Speed and Fast Reflex Driving From Each Driver out there. It will be Exciting to see who can bring home a Victory and push their Machinery past its Limits and into New Territory. Another Race I'm Looking Forward to Seeing.

 

A Brilliant End to the Days Qualifying and seeing all that Machinery out there was Fantastic. Congratulations to all of the Qualifiers who made the Top Three in Every Support Race. Looking Ford To Tomorrow and a Very Fierce Set Of Battles Thought the Day.

Jaarlijks terugkerende Singelloop langs de oude begrenzing van Leiden | Annual Singelloop fun-run along the canals which used to comprise the Leyden city limits

 

Canon EOS-1D MKIII | EF-L 300mm F2.8 (non-IS) + 1.4x converter (= 420 mm)

 

For best view: press L

The No Limits Bike Racing Championship made its formal Return to the World Famous Brands Hatch Grand Prix Circuit for a Very Special 8 Hour Endurance Race.

 

Each and Every Team Had a selection of High Powered Racing Machinery that would along with the Rider take on the Might of Brands Hatches' Grand Prix Circuit for a Gruelling 8 Hours Straight.

 

While Some Teams had as many as Four Riders to make the job a Little Bit Easier other Teams Had decided to go with just Two Riders for 4 Hours Each knowing they Had the Skills and Determination to Keep Racing Hard.

 

The Championship was in is Last Race of the Season here at Brands and Whoever Won this Final Event would take the No Limits Bike Racing Championship Crown.

 

Qualifying was up First and setting the Pace at the Top of the Timings was (Andelle Leathers / RatMally Graphic) on their Kawasaki 998/Kawasaki 1000 Racing Bikes with an Incredible Time of 1.31.846 and a Top Speed of 95.37 to take Pole at The Start of the Race.

 

In Second Place was (Delkevic Racing) Kawasaki 1000/BMW 1000/Kawasaki 1000 Yamaha 1000 Racing Bikes with a Lap Time of 1.31.784 and a Top Speed of 95.34mph.

 

In Third Place was (Earnshaw's Motorcycles) BMW 1000/BMW 1000 Racing Bikes with A Lap Time of 1.32.099 and an Top Speed of 95.11mph.

 

With Qualifying Over and a 11:46am Start Fast Approaching all of the Riders to head out for the First 2 Hours. Just like Old School Le Mans the Riders all Lined Up on the Opposite Side of the Pitlane with their Respective Teams Holding onto the Bikes Ready for them to Blast off into the Distance around the Circuit.

 

A Loud Bang from the Calcian Signalled the Start of an 8 Hour Endurance Race and each Rider Ran Towards their Bikes Fired them Up and Set off onto the Race Track.

 

During the First Hour All Riders Made it through the First Opening Laps without any Problems and already many of them were getting up to Speed while some other Riders Preferred to nurse their Machinery for the First Hour to Avoid anything Breaking or Failing on thease High Powered Machines.

 

As Hour two Approached Everyone was still going strong and The Riders were Each Getting into a Really Good Rhythm of the Grand Prix circuit while other Teams had opted to Head to the pits to swap Riders and Give themselves more of a chance to take Victory with a selection of different Talents and Bikes available.

 

The Start of Hour Three saw a lot of Different Battles Going on thought the field and on the Back Straight there was some Close Wheel to Wheel Action Between Every Rider traveling at Speeds close to Nearly 100mph. Some Riders were Pushing so Hard that Even their Front Wheels Rose into the Air Making for some Epic and Thrilling Moments. An Overtake by Rider Number 97 on 36 was the Highlight so Far.

 

Hour Four and Still Each Rider was not Giving Up on the Chance of Victory with Half of the Endurance Race Completed by Now it was Time for Another Rider Change and with Many Teams Heading for the Pits Once Again Each New Rider Ventured Out onto the Brands Hatch GP Circuit it Beautiful Sunlit Conditions Although thease Must Have Been Playing Havoc with the Visibility for the Riders. Non the Less After Just One Retirement Earlier Due to an Engine Fire and a Marshall that should Have Really Been More Prepared. the Remaining Riders Soldered on.

 

The Fifth Hour was now Upon them and after a Very Hectic and Fast set of Laps Earlier Many Riders were setting down into their Positions to make sure the Bike they were on would Survive to the End. Druids was a Place to witness some Incredible Overtakes During this Time with the Light Levels Lowering and The Riders Really Looking like they were Pushing Hard and Encouraging their Machines to solder onto Victory.

 

Hour Six and with the Light Levels Now Falling even Lower it looked like this Endurance Race would be Ending in Nearly Dark Conditions as the Rider Kept on Going. The Few Retirement's Earlier on during Hour 2 and 3 were now just a Memory in the Surviving Riders Minds who all had One Goal in Mind. Get This Bike to the End of The Race.

 

Hour Seven and by now the Light was Nearly all But Gone with the Last Rays of Sunshine Disappearing Entirely from the Tops of Druids and yet Despite this now disadvantage i terms of Having a lot less light The Riders Still Continued to Push Hard and Fight their was To Victory in the Closing Stages as the Race Reached its Climax.

 

The Final Hour was Finally here and Every Rider who Had Been Concentrating Hard all Day was Now in a Position to Push Hard for that Final Hour of Glory that would mean the Difference Between either a Race Victory or a Race Loss. As The Minuets Slowly Ticked Down and The Last Light of Day Had been Long Extinguished from the Circuit. it was the Team of (Delkevic Racing's Liam Marchant / Gary Johnson / James Edwards and Luke Scott who took a Resounding Victory after 232 Laps and a Gruelling 8 Hour's of Racing 2 For Each of The Riders. Congratulations Delkevic Racing an Incredible Achievement.

 

In Second Place was The Team of (Earnshaw's Motorcycles Jonathan Lodge and James Lodge) after 232 Laps and 4 Hour's Between Them a Super Effort and Very Well Deserved Second Place Battle Through some Very Tough Competitors.

 

In Third Place was (Josh Daley Racing/RC Express by Dafabet Josh Daley and Rob Hodson) after a Very Hard and Gruelling 231 Laps in the Seat of Their Racing Bikes. Amazing Work Josh Daley Racing Incredible Ride and a Very Well Deserved Third Place.

 

An Exceptional Day of Endurance Racing from the No Limits Bike Racing Championship with Delkevic Racing's Liam Marchant / Gary Johnson / James Edwards and Luke Scott Taking The Final Victory of the Season with Datasys Racing Mark Daines / Jeremy Watson / Johnny Panter and Joe Higham taking The Championship for 2021.

 

A Big Congratulations to all of the Riders who took Part in this Event in my Opinion you Made everyone who Races in the Bennet's British Super Bike Championship look like Amateurs. You Guys are the Real Deal and am Really Looking forward to Watching this Epic Race all over Again Next Year. Until Then Keep Racing and Never Give Up Hope of One Day Standing on the Top Step of the Podium.

      

The No Limits Bike Racing Championship made its formal Return to the World Famous Brands Hatch Grand Prix Circuit for a Very Special 8 Hour Endurance Race.

 

Each and Every Team Had a selection of High Powered Racing Machinery that would along with the Rider take on the Might of Brands Hatches' Grand Prix Circuit for a Gruelling 8 Hours Straight.

 

While Some Teams had as many as Four Riders to make the job a Little Bit Easier other Teams Had decided to go with just Two Riders for 4 Hours Each knowing they Had the Skills and Determination to Keep Racing Hard.

 

The Championship was in is Last Race of the Season here at Brands and Whoever Won this Final Event would take the No Limits Bike Racing Championship Crown.

 

Qualifying was up First and setting the Pace at the Top of the Timings was (Andelle Leathers / RatMally Graphic) on their Kawasaki 998/Kawasaki 1000 Racing Bikes with an Incredible Time of 1.31.846 and a Top Speed of 95.37 to take Pole at The Start of the Race.

 

In Second Place was (Delkevic Racing) Kawasaki 1000/BMW 1000/Kawasaki 1000 Yamaha 1000 Racing Bikes with a Lap Time of 1.31.784 and a Top Speed of 95.34mph.

 

In Third Place was (Earnshaw's Motorcycles) BMW 1000/BMW 1000 Racing Bikes with A Lap Time of 1.32.099 and an Top Speed of 95.11mph.

 

With Qualifying Over and a 11:46am Start Fast Approaching all of the Riders to head out for the First 2 Hours. Just like Old School Le Mans the Riders all Lined Up on the Opposite Side of the Pitlane with their Respective Teams Holding onto the Bikes Ready for them to Blast off into the Distance around the Circuit.

 

A Loud Bang from the Calcian Signalled the Start of an 8 Hour Endurance Race and each Rider Ran Towards their Bikes Fired them Up and Set off onto the Race Track.

 

During the First Hour All Riders Made it through the First Opening Laps without any Problems and already many of them were getting up to Speed while some other Riders Preferred to nurse their Machinery for the First Hour to Avoid anything Breaking or Failing on thease High Powered Machines.

 

As Hour two Approached Everyone was still going strong and The Riders were Each Getting into a Really Good Rhythm of the Grand Prix circuit while other Teams had opted to Head to the pits to swap Riders and Give themselves more of a chance to take Victory with a selection of different Talents and Bikes available.

 

The Start of Hour Three saw a lot of Different Battles Going on thought the field and on the Back Straight there was some Close Wheel to Wheel Action Between Every Rider traveling at Speeds close to Nearly 100mph. Some Riders were Pushing so Hard that Even their Front Wheels Rose into the Air Making for some Epic and Thrilling Moments. An Overtake by Rider Number 97 on 36 was the Highlight so Far.

 

Hour Four and Still Each Rider was not Giving Up on the Chance of Victory with Half of the Endurance Race Completed by Now it was Time for Another Rider Change and with Many Teams Heading for the Pits Once Again Each New Rider Ventured Out onto the Brands Hatch GP Circuit it Beautiful Sunlit Conditions Although thease Must Have Been Playing Havoc with the Visibility for the Riders. Non the Less After Just One Retirement Earlier Due to an Engine Fire and a Marshall that should Have Really Been More Prepared. the Remaining Riders Soldered on.

 

The Fifth Hour was now Upon them and after a Very Hectic and Fast set of Laps Earlier Many Riders were setting down into their Positions to make sure the Bike they were on would Survive to the End. Druids was a Place to witness some Incredible Overtakes During this Time with the Light Levels Lowering and The Riders Really Looking like they were Pushing Hard and Encouraging their Machines to solder onto Victory.

 

Hour Six and with the Light Levels Now Falling even Lower it looked like this Endurance Race would be Ending in Nearly Dark Conditions as the Rider Kept on Going. The Few Retirement's Earlier on during Hour 2 and 3 were now just a Memory in the Surviving Riders Minds who all had One Goal in Mind. Get This Bike to the End of The Race.

 

Hour Seven and by now the Light was Nearly all But Gone with the Last Rays of Sunshine Disappearing Entirely from the Tops of Druids and yet Despite this now disadvantage i terms of Having a lot less light The Riders Still Continued to Push Hard and Fight their was To Victory in the Closing Stages as the Race Reached its Climax.

 

The Final Hour was Finally here and Every Rider who Had Been Concentrating Hard all Day was Now in a Position to Push Hard for that Final Hour of Glory that would mean the Difference Between either a Race Victory or a Race Loss. As The Minuets Slowly Ticked Down and The Last Light of Day Had been Long Extinguished from the Circuit. it was the Team of (Delkevic Racing's Liam Marchant / Gary Johnson / James Edwards and Luke Scott who took a Resounding Victory after 232 Laps and a Gruelling 8 Hour's of Racing 2 For Each of The Riders. Congratulations Delkevic Racing an Incredible Achievement.

 

In Second Place was The Team of (Earnshaw's Motorcycles Jonathan Lodge and James Lodge) after 232 Laps and 4 Hour's Between Them a Super Effort and Very Well Deserved Second Place Battle Through some Very Tough Competitors.

 

In Third Place was (Josh Daley Racing/RC Express by Dafabet Josh Daley and Rob Hodson) after a Very Hard and Gruelling 231 Laps in the Seat of Their Racing Bikes. Amazing Work Josh Daley Racing Incredible Ride and a Very Well Deserved Third Place.

 

An Exceptional Day of Endurance Racing from the No Limits Bike Racing Championship with Delkevic Racing's Liam Marchant / Gary Johnson / James Edwards and Luke Scott Taking The Final Victory of the Season with Datasys Racing Mark Daines / Jeremy Watson / Johnny Panter and Joe Higham taking The Championship for 2021.

 

A Big Congratulations to all of the Riders who took Part in this Event in my Opinion you Made everyone who Races in the Bennet's British Super Bike Championship look like Amateurs. You Guys are the Real Deal and am Really Looking forward to Watching this Epic Race all over Again Next Year. Until Then Keep Racing and Never Give Up Hope of One Day Standing on the Top Step of the Podium.

      

American Speedfest 8 Returned to Brands Hatch for another Fantastic American themed weekend Featuring the likes of Euro Nascar Legends and even Angelo American Formula 5000's Racing this weekender event was shaping up to be a good one.

 

The First Day was mostly focused on Qualifying with many of the Races taking Place on the Sunday. Each of the Teams was both busy in the outer Paddock and the Pitlane getting their cars ready for a shakedown session in which they would have to Qualify to see who could be the Fastest and take Pole Position for each of the Races come Sunday.

 

Angelo American Formula 5000

 

The Formula 5000's made a Thunderous return to the Brands Hatch circuit, Built during a time where many Formula 1 cars from the likes of Lotus Williams and McLaren we using Ground Effect and pushing up the speeds of their cars.

 

Formula 5000's took speeds to a whole new level by using V8 Engines to power their cars which were found to be even faster than those Formula 1 cars of that era on the straights of different race tracks. Chevron B37's and McRae GM1'S were amongst the field and Qualifying looked to be very close indeed.

 

In First Place taking Pole Position and The Fastest Lap was (Neil Glover) in his Chevron B37 with a Lap Time of 47.039 with an average speed of 92.44mph. An Insanely Fast Lap Time for Brands Hatches Indy Circuit.

 

In Second Place was (Mark Campfield) in his Chevron B24 with A Lap Time Of 47.694 and an Average Speed of 91.17mph still Impressively quick for Chevron Power.

 

In Third Place was (Greg Thornton) in his Chevron B24 with A Lap Time Of 47.775 with an Average Speed of 91.02mph showing the power of the Chevron Engine through every turn.

 

A Tightly Packed Grid for Sundays Race and it looks like its a Chevron Front Row lockout but who's car will have the power to Triumph over the others? only time will tell.

 

Bernie's Sports And V8's

 

Bernie's V8's were up next and showcased a lot of Impressive V8 Powered Machinery on the grid. Talbot Sunbeams, Austin Healey's and even MGB GT V8 powered Machinery hitting the Track during Qualifying. Lets see what V8 Power can do and which Drivers managed to tame the Beasts and make it into the top three.

 

In First Place Taking Pole Position and the Fastest Lap was the Duo of (Elis Mar/Elis Mat) in their Talbot Sunbeam Lotus with a Lap Time of 54.533 and an Average speed of 79.74mph. Fast and Furious Driving on display once again.

 

In Second Place was (James Plant) in his Austin Healey 106 with a Lap Time of 54.964 and an Average Speed of 79.11mph. Very Quick and Consistent Laps seen from James behind the wheel too.

 

In Third Place was the Duo of (Can/Wilson) in their Aston Martin V8 Vantage with a lap time of 55.397 and an Average speed of 78.49mph. Showing just how much power and Grunt that Aston has.

 

Another Fantastic set of V8 Powered Machines on Display showing the true power of the American Built V8'S and how they changed the game in terms of Racing and Road Going Cars. Who will win the Race on Sunday. Will have to wait and see.

 

Legends Cars Championship

 

Referred to as the Little Pocket Rockets these small Looking Cars may not loo like they have anything Special to offer but just wait until you see what these little Wolves in Sheep's clothing can do once out on the Track.

 

Using Motorbike Engines of 1200cc they Really do show on Track just how lightweight and fast they are and Slip Streaming is commonly a way of being able to Achieve a Faster Lap time by using the Driver in fronts Slip Stream to aid in the Aerodynamics of the Car and Reduce Drag. Lets see what Happened during Qualifying Heat 2

 

In First Place Taking Pole and Setting The Fastest Lap was (Chris Dewey) in his Legend with a Lap Time Of 56.700 with an Average Speed of 76.69mph. Crazy Fast for Something so small and yet very Agile in Control.

 

In Second Place was (Stephen Whitelegg) in his Legend 34 Ford Coupe with a Lap Time of 56.740 and an Average Speed of 76.64mph. First And Second look to be very close together Thanks to the aids in Slip Streaming down the Brabham Straight to gain positions or Fastest Laps.

 

In Third Place was (Miles Rudman) in his Legend 34 Coupe with a Lap Time Of 56.878. Very Close between the Top three and it just goes to show how Important Slip Streaming is to Gain an Advantage in this Qualifying Session.

 

Exciting Stuff Ahead of The

Legends Races on Sunday where One of the Drivers will Win the Race and Take the Victory, Who Will it be? Only Time Will Tell.

 

Nascar Whelen Euro Series-Pro

 

The Main Highlight Event of the Day and the Nascar's with their Thunderous Powered V8 Engines Roared onto the Indy Circuit and with Two Formation Laps Completed to Warm Up the Tyres every car was released to Start Qualifying. Lets See How the Grid Will Shape Up.

 

In First Place to Take Pole and The Fastest Lap was (Alon Day) in his Chevrolet Camaro Caal Racing with a Lap Time of 48.903 and an Average Speed of 88.92mph. I wonder if Marty McFly and Dock Brown were part of their Race Team to Achieve that Impressive Lap Time? Non the Less Amazing Work by Alon Day.

 

In Second Place was (Loris Hezemans) in his Ford Mustang Hedrik's Motorsport) with a Lap Time of 49.000 and an Average Speed of 88.74mph. Another Fast and Consistent Lap From Loris showing the Balance Between Driver and Car.

 

In Third Place was (Nicolo Rocca) in his Chevrolet Camaro DF1 Racing) with A Lap Time of 49.292 and an Average Speed of 88.22mph. All Three Drivers seem to be very close in terms of Lap Times and this will make for some Exciting Racing Come Race Day.

 

Close and Competitive Racing in Nascar-Pro but who will have the Power to Push even Harder and take Home The Victory come Race Day. We will have to wait and See.

 

EuroNascar-2

 

Euro Nascar-2 is A a series of Slightly Lower Tuned Nascar's that Features as a Way of Getting Drivers ready to head to the Big Time Nascar Racing that takes Place at Daytona and Indianapolis.

 

Drivers must First Prove themselves worthy by Starting out from the Bottom and Only The Best Drivers in the World can make it into Nascar's Top Level Racing Teams.

 

Lets See how the Grid Lines up and see who managed to Qualify the Fastest and take Pole Position.

 

In First Place and Taking Pole Position and The Fastest Lap was (Advait DeoDHar) in his Ford Mustang Caal Racing with A Lap Time Of 49.918 and An Average Speed of 87.11mph. A Really Well Controlled Lap and a very Focused Mind to Achieve such a Drive.

 

In Second Place was (Tobias Dauenhauer) in his Ford Mustang Hendriks Motorsport with a Lap Time Of 50.110 and an Average Speed Of 86.78mph. Really Well Done and a very Quick Driver and Car underneath Him.

 

In Third Place was (Justin Kunz ) in his Chevrolet Camaro DF1 Racing with A Lap Time Of 50.161. Very Fast and Consistent with the Top Three all Very Close and Ready to take on the Race and see who can Battle and Fight for a Victory.

 

An Exciting Qualifying Session for both Nascar-Pro and Euro Nascar-2 with Each set of Driver Showing the Speed Power and Machinery of the Great American State. Looking Forward To Seeing what Happens During The Race.

 

Pickup Trucks Championship

 

The Pickup Trucks Returned to Brands Hatch for Another High Speed Weekend of Flat Out Racing around the Indy Circuit. With Light Weight Chassis and Powerful Engines it was shaping up to be a very Large and Competitive Grid for Pickup Trucks.

 

In First Place Taking Pole Position and the Fastest Lap was (Reece Jones) in his Pick Up Truck 2000 with a Lap Time of 52.634 with an Average Speed of 82.61mph.

 

In Second Place was (George Turiccki) in his Pickup Truck 2000 with A Lap Time of 52.706mph and an average speed of 82.50mph.

 

In Third Place was (Mark Willis) in his Pickup Truck 2000 with A Lap Time of 52.976 and an Average Speed of 82.08mph.

 

Three Very Quick and Capable Drivers all Fighting for the Victory In Tomorrow's Race but who will be up to the challenge of Taking 1st Place and Winning. Only One Way To Find Out.

 

Speedfest Silhouettes

 

Formally Known as the Silhouettes the Super Silhouettes Brought with them some fast and impressive Space Frame Machinery to the track.

 

With Aero Packages and Light Weight Monacock Chassis these Monsters were going to be something Amazing to watch Race.

 

But First Lets See how Qualifying Shapes up.

 

In First Place Taking Pole and The Fastest Lap was (Ray Harris in his Ginetta G40r with a Lap Time of 50.564 and an Average speed of 86.00mph. Either Crazy or Insane I would Describe that Incredible Lap of Brands. Amazing Work.

 

In Second Place was (Malcom Blackman) in his Vauxhall Tigra with A Lap Time of 50.805 and an Average Speed of 85.59mph Another Crazy Quick and on the Edge Lap.

 

In Third Place was (Lewis Smith) in his Mercedes SLK with a Lap Time of 51.313 and an Average Speed of 84.74mph. Three Very Fast and Capable Drivers in this Qualifying Session.

 

Incredible Speed and Fast Reflex Driving From Each Driver out there. It will be Exciting to see who can bring home a Victory and push their Machinery past its Limits and into New Territory. Another Race I'm Looking Forward to Seeing.

 

A Brilliant End to the Days Qualifying and seeing all that Machinery out there was Fantastic. Congratulations to all of the Qualifiers who made the Top Three in Every Support Race. Looking Ford To Tomorrow and a Very Fierce Set Of Battles Thought the Day.

American Speedfest 8 Returned to Brands Hatch for another Fantastic American themed weekend Featuring the likes of Euro Nascar Legends and even Angelo American Formula 5000's Racing this weekender event was shaping up to be a good one.

 

The First Day was mostly focused on Qualifying with many of the Races taking Place on the Sunday. Each of the Teams was both busy in the outer Paddock and the Pitlane getting their cars ready for a shakedown session in which they would have to Qualify to see who could be the Fastest and take Pole Position for each of the Races come Sunday.

 

Angelo American Formula 5000

 

The Formula 5000's made a Thunderous return to the Brands Hatch circuit, Built during a time where many Formula 1 cars from the likes of Lotus Williams and McLaren we using Ground Effect and pushing up the speeds of their cars.

 

Formula 5000's took speeds to a whole new level by using V8 Engines to power their cars which were found to be even faster than those Formula 1 cars of that era on the straights of different race tracks. Chevron B37's and McRae GM1'S were amongst the field and Qualifying looked to be very close indeed.

 

In First Place taking Pole Position and The Fastest Lap was (Neil Glover) in his Chevron B37 with a Lap Time of 47.039 with an average speed of 92.44mph. An Insanely Fast Lap Time for Brands Hatches Indy Circuit.

 

In Second Place was (Mark Campfield) in his Chevron B24 with A Lap Time Of 47.694 and an Average Speed of 91.17mph still Impressively quick for Chevron Power.

 

In Third Place was (Greg Thornton) in his Chevron B24 with A Lap Time Of 47.775 with an Average Speed of 91.02mph showing the power of the Chevron Engine through every turn.

 

A Tightly Packed Grid for Sundays Race and it looks like its a Chevron Front Row lockout but who's car will have the power to Triumph over the others? only time will tell.

 

Bernie's Sports And V8's

 

Bernie's V8's were up next and showcased a lot of Impressive V8 Powered Machinery on the grid. Talbot Sunbeams, Austin Healey's and even MGB GT V8 powered Machinery hitting the Track during Qualifying. Lets see what V8 Power can do and which Drivers managed to tame the Beasts and make it into the top three.

 

In First Place Taking Pole Position and the Fastest Lap was the Duo of (Elis Mar/Elis Mat) in their Talbot Sunbeam Lotus with a Lap Time of 54.533 and an Average speed of 79.74mph. Fast and Furious Driving on display once again.

 

In Second Place was (James Plant) in his Austin Healey 106 with a Lap Time of 54.964 and an Average Speed of 79.11mph. Very Quick and Consistent Laps seen from James behind the wheel too.

 

In Third Place was the Duo of (Can/Wilson) in their Aston Martin V8 Vantage with a lap time of 55.397 and an Average speed of 78.49mph. Showing just how much power and Grunt that Aston has.

 

Another Fantastic set of V8 Powered Machines on Display showing the true power of the American Built V8'S and how they changed the game in terms of Racing and Road Going Cars. Who will win the Race on Sunday. Will have to wait and see.

 

Legends Cars Championship

 

Referred to as the Little Pocket Rockets these small Looking Cars may not loo like they have anything Special to offer but just wait until you see what these little Wolves in Sheep's clothing can do once out on the Track.

 

Using Motorbike Engines of 1200cc they Really do show on Track just how lightweight and fast they are and Slip Streaming is commonly a way of being able to Achieve a Faster Lap time by using the Driver in fronts Slip Stream to aid in the Aerodynamics of the Car and Reduce Drag. Lets see what Happened during Qualifying Heat 2

 

In First Place Taking Pole and Setting The Fastest Lap was (Chris Dewey) in his Legend with a Lap Time Of 56.700 with an Average Speed of 76.69mph. Crazy Fast for Something so small and yet very Agile in Control.

 

In Second Place was (Stephen Whitelegg) in his Legend 34 Ford Coupe with a Lap Time of 56.740 and an Average Speed of 76.64mph. First And Second look to be very close together Thanks to the aids in Slip Streaming down the Brabham Straight to gain positions or Fastest Laps.

 

In Third Place was (Miles Rudman) in his Legend 34 Coupe with a Lap Time Of 56.878. Very Close between the Top three and it just goes to show how Important Slip Streaming is to Gain an Advantage in this Qualifying Session.

 

Exciting Stuff Ahead of The

Legends Races on Sunday where One of the Drivers will Win the Race and Take the Victory, Who Will it be? Only Time Will Tell.

 

Nascar Whelen Euro Series-Pro

 

The Main Highlight Event of the Day and the Nascar's with their Thunderous Powered V8 Engines Roared onto the Indy Circuit and with Two Formation Laps Completed to Warm Up the Tyres every car was released to Start Qualifying. Lets See How the Grid Will Shape Up.

 

In First Place to Take Pole and The Fastest Lap was (Alon Day) in his Chevrolet Camaro Caal Racing with a Lap Time of 48.903 and an Average Speed of 88.92mph. I wonder if Marty McFly and Dock Brown were part of their Race Team to Achieve that Impressive Lap Time? Non the Less Amazing Work by Alon Day.

 

In Second Place was (Loris Hezemans) in his Ford Mustang Hedrik's Motorsport) with a Lap Time of 49.000 and an Average Speed of 88.74mph. Another Fast and Consistent Lap From Loris showing the Balance Between Driver and Car.

 

In Third Place was (Nicolo Rocca) in his Chevrolet Camaro DF1 Racing) with A Lap Time of 49.292 and an Average Speed of 88.22mph. All Three Drivers seem to be very close in terms of Lap Times and this will make for some Exciting Racing Come Race Day.

 

Close and Competitive Racing in Nascar-Pro but who will have the Power to Push even Harder and take Home The Victory come Race Day. We will have to wait and See.

 

EuroNascar-2

 

Euro Nascar-2 is A a series of Slightly Lower Tuned Nascar's that Features as a Way of Getting Drivers ready to head to the Big Time Nascar Racing that takes Place at Daytona and Indianapolis.

 

Drivers must First Prove themselves worthy by Starting out from the Bottom and Only The Best Drivers in the World can make it into Nascar's Top Level Racing Teams.

 

Lets See how the Grid Lines up and see who managed to Qualify the Fastest and take Pole Position.

 

In First Place and Taking Pole Position and The Fastest Lap was (Advait DeoDHar) in his Ford Mustang Caal Racing with A Lap Time Of 49.918 and An Average Speed of 87.11mph. A Really Well Controlled Lap and a very Focused Mind to Achieve such a Drive.

 

In Second Place was (Tobias Dauenhauer) in his Ford Mustang Hendriks Motorsport with a Lap Time Of 50.110 and an Average Speed Of 86.78mph. Really Well Done and a very Quick Driver and Car underneath Him.

 

In Third Place was (Justin Kunz ) in his Chevrolet Camaro DF1 Racing with A Lap Time Of 50.161. Very Fast and Consistent with the Top Three all Very Close and Ready to take on the Race and see who can Battle and Fight for a Victory.

 

An Exciting Qualifying Session for both Nascar-Pro and Euro Nascar-2 with Each set of Driver Showing the Speed Power and Machinery of the Great American State. Looking Forward To Seeing what Happens During The Race.

 

Pickup Trucks Championship

 

The Pickup Trucks Returned to Brands Hatch for Another High Speed Weekend of Flat Out Racing around the Indy Circuit. With Light Weight Chassis and Powerful Engines it was shaping up to be a very Large and Competitive Grid for Pickup Trucks.

 

In First Place Taking Pole Position and the Fastest Lap was (Reece Jones) in his Pick Up Truck 2000 with a Lap Time of 52.634 with an Average Speed of 82.61mph.

 

In Second Place was (George Turiccki) in his Pickup Truck 2000 with A Lap Time of 52.706mph and an average speed of 82.50mph.

 

In Third Place was (Mark Willis) in his Pickup Truck 2000 with A Lap Time of 52.976 and an Average Speed of 82.08mph.

 

Three Very Quick and Capable Drivers all Fighting for the Victory In Tomorrow's Race but who will be up to the challenge of Taking 1st Place and Winning. Only One Way To Find Out.

 

Speedfest Silhouettes

 

Formally Known as the Silhouettes the Super Silhouettes Brought with them some fast and impressive Space Frame Machinery to the track.

 

With Aero Packages and Light Weight Monacock Chassis these Monsters were going to be something Amazing to watch Race.

 

But First Lets See how Qualifying Shapes up.

 

In First Place Taking Pole and The Fastest Lap was (Ray Harris in his Ginetta G40r with a Lap Time of 50.564 and an Average speed of 86.00mph. Either Crazy or Insane I would Describe that Incredible Lap of Brands. Amazing Work.

 

In Second Place was (Malcom Blackman) in his Vauxhall Tigra with A Lap Time of 50.805 and an Average Speed of 85.59mph Another Crazy Quick and on the Edge Lap.

 

In Third Place was (Lewis Smith) in his Mercedes SLK with a Lap Time of 51.313 and an Average Speed of 84.74mph. Three Very Fast and Capable Drivers in this Qualifying Session.

 

Incredible Speed and Fast Reflex Driving From Each Driver out there. It will be Exciting to see who can bring home a Victory and push their Machinery past its Limits and into New Territory. Another Race I'm Looking Forward to Seeing.

 

A Brilliant End to the Days Qualifying and seeing all that Machinery out there was Fantastic. Congratulations to all of the Qualifiers who made the Top Three in Every Support Race. Looking Ford To Tomorrow and a Very Fierce Set Of Battles Thought the Day.

From a GTR enthusiast group at the 9tro Alliance Meet at The Grandstand, Singapore on 8 June 2014.

 

Pardon me for my rookie level shots as this event was my maiden car spotting photography trip .

May 6 - 8 // 寺田倉庫, Japan

 

Born out of Helsinki, Finland and to be relived in Tokyo, Japan, Junction Asia brings hackers together for a 48hr hackathon that is unlike any other hackathon in Japan.

 

Junction Asia is free for everyone, and we believe that the best solutions come from the most freedom and make creativity the limit of the outcomes. Junction Asia will be officially in English, but also invites Japanese speakers as well to the event.

 

In Junction Asia, there will be several tracks. In each track, there is a different theme with a challenge. Join one of the tracks of your liking and hack the problem for your chance to win a round-trip to Finland for Slush 2016, a chance to be at Slush Asia 2016 and more!

 

American Speedfest 8 Returned to Brands Hatch for another Fantastic American themed weekend Featuring the likes of Euro Nascar Legends and even Angelo American Formula 5000's Racing this weekender event was shaping up to be a good one.

 

The First Day was mostly focused on Qualifying with many of the Races taking Place on the Sunday. Each of the Teams was both busy in the outer Paddock and the Pitlane getting their cars ready for a shakedown session in which they would have to Qualify to see who could be the Fastest and take Pole Position for each of the Races come Sunday.

 

Angelo American Formula 5000

 

The Formula 5000's made a Thunderous return to the Brands Hatch circuit, Built during a time where many Formula 1 cars from the likes of Lotus Williams and McLaren we using Ground Effect and pushing up the speeds of their cars.

 

Formula 5000's took speeds to a whole new level by using V8 Engines to power their cars which were found to be even faster than those Formula 1 cars of that era on the straights of different race tracks. Chevron B37's and McRae GM1'S were amongst the field and Qualifying looked to be very close indeed.

 

In First Place taking Pole Position and The Fastest Lap was (Neil Glover) in his Chevron B37 with a Lap Time of 47.039 with an average speed of 92.44mph. An Insanely Fast Lap Time for Brands Hatches Indy Circuit.

 

In Second Place was (Mark Campfield) in his Chevron B24 with A Lap Time Of 47.694 and an Average Speed of 91.17mph still Impressively quick for Chevron Power.

 

In Third Place was (Greg Thornton) in his Chevron B24 with A Lap Time Of 47.775 with an Average Speed of 91.02mph showing the power of the Chevron Engine through every turn.

 

A Tightly Packed Grid for Sundays Race and it looks like its a Chevron Front Row lockout but who's car will have the power to Triumph over the others? only time will tell.

 

Bernie's Sports And V8's

 

Bernie's V8's were up next and showcased a lot of Impressive V8 Powered Machinery on the grid. Talbot Sunbeams, Austin Healey's and even MGB GT V8 powered Machinery hitting the Track during Qualifying. Lets see what V8 Power can do and which Drivers managed to tame the Beasts and make it into the top three.

 

In First Place Taking Pole Position and the Fastest Lap was the Duo of (Elis Mar/Elis Mat) in their Talbot Sunbeam Lotus with a Lap Time of 54.533 and an Average speed of 79.74mph. Fast and Furious Driving on display once again.

 

In Second Place was (James Plant) in his Austin Healey 106 with a Lap Time of 54.964 and an Average Speed of 79.11mph. Very Quick and Consistent Laps seen from James behind the wheel too.

 

In Third Place was the Duo of (Can/Wilson) in their Aston Martin V8 Vantage with a lap time of 55.397 and an Average speed of 78.49mph. Showing just how much power and Grunt that Aston has.

 

Another Fantastic set of V8 Powered Machines on Display showing the true power of the American Built V8'S and how they changed the game in terms of Racing and Road Going Cars. Who will win the Race on Sunday. Will have to wait and see.

 

Legends Cars Championship

 

Referred to as the Little Pocket Rockets these small Looking Cars may not loo like they have anything Special to offer but just wait until you see what these little Wolves in Sheep's clothing can do once out on the Track.

 

Using Motorbike Engines of 1200cc they Really do show on Track just how lightweight and fast they are and Slip Streaming is commonly a way of being able to Achieve a Faster Lap time by using the Driver in fronts Slip Stream to aid in the Aerodynamics of the Car and Reduce Drag. Lets see what Happened during Qualifying Heat 2

 

In First Place Taking Pole and Setting The Fastest Lap was (Chris Dewey) in his Legend with a Lap Time Of 56.700 with an Average Speed of 76.69mph. Crazy Fast for Something so small and yet very Agile in Control.

 

In Second Place was (Stephen Whitelegg) in his Legend 34 Ford Coupe with a Lap Time of 56.740 and an Average Speed of 76.64mph. First And Second look to be very close together Thanks to the aids in Slip Streaming down the Brabham Straight to gain positions or Fastest Laps.

 

In Third Place was (Miles Rudman) in his Legend 34 Coupe with a Lap Time Of 56.878. Very Close between the Top three and it just goes to show how Important Slip Streaming is to Gain an Advantage in this Qualifying Session.

 

Exciting Stuff Ahead of The

Legends Races on Sunday where One of the Drivers will Win the Race and Take the Victory, Who Will it be? Only Time Will Tell.

 

Nascar Whelen Euro Series-Pro

 

The Main Highlight Event of the Day and the Nascar's with their Thunderous Powered V8 Engines Roared onto the Indy Circuit and with Two Formation Laps Completed to Warm Up the Tyres every car was released to Start Qualifying. Lets See How the Grid Will Shape Up.

 

In First Place to Take Pole and The Fastest Lap was (Alon Day) in his Chevrolet Camaro Caal Racing with a Lap Time of 48.903 and an Average Speed of 88.92mph. I wonder if Marty McFly and Dock Brown were part of their Race Team to Achieve that Impressive Lap Time? Non the Less Amazing Work by Alon Day.

 

In Second Place was (Loris Hezemans) in his Ford Mustang Hedrik's Motorsport) with a Lap Time of 49.000 and an Average Speed of 88.74mph. Another Fast and Consistent Lap From Loris showing the Balance Between Driver and Car.

 

In Third Place was (Nicolo Rocca) in his Chevrolet Camaro DF1 Racing) with A Lap Time of 49.292 and an Average Speed of 88.22mph. All Three Drivers seem to be very close in terms of Lap Times and this will make for some Exciting Racing Come Race Day.

 

Close and Competitive Racing in Nascar-Pro but who will have the Power to Push even Harder and take Home The Victory come Race Day. We will have to wait and See.

 

EuroNascar-2

 

Euro Nascar-2 is A a series of Slightly Lower Tuned Nascar's that Features as a Way of Getting Drivers ready to head to the Big Time Nascar Racing that takes Place at Daytona and Indianapolis.

 

Drivers must First Prove themselves worthy by Starting out from the Bottom and Only The Best Drivers in the World can make it into Nascar's Top Level Racing Teams.

 

Lets See how the Grid Lines up and see who managed to Qualify the Fastest and take Pole Position.

 

In First Place and Taking Pole Position and The Fastest Lap was (Advait DeoDHar) in his Ford Mustang Caal Racing with A Lap Time Of 49.918 and An Average Speed of 87.11mph. A Really Well Controlled Lap and a very Focused Mind to Achieve such a Drive.

 

In Second Place was (Tobias Dauenhauer) in his Ford Mustang Hendriks Motorsport with a Lap Time Of 50.110 and an Average Speed Of 86.78mph. Really Well Done and a very Quick Driver and Car underneath Him.

 

In Third Place was (Justin Kunz ) in his Chevrolet Camaro DF1 Racing with A Lap Time Of 50.161. Very Fast and Consistent with the Top Three all Very Close and Ready to take on the Race and see who can Battle and Fight for a Victory.

 

An Exciting Qualifying Session for both Nascar-Pro and Euro Nascar-2 with Each set of Driver Showing the Speed Power and Machinery of the Great American State. Looking Forward To Seeing what Happens During The Race.

 

Pickup Trucks Championship

 

The Pickup Trucks Returned to Brands Hatch for Another High Speed Weekend of Flat Out Racing around the Indy Circuit. With Light Weight Chassis and Powerful Engines it was shaping up to be a very Large and Competitive Grid for Pickup Trucks.

 

In First Place Taking Pole Position and the Fastest Lap was (Reece Jones) in his Pick Up Truck 2000 with a Lap Time of 52.634 with an Average Speed of 82.61mph.

 

In Second Place was (George Turiccki) in his Pickup Truck 2000 with A Lap Time of 52.706mph and an average speed of 82.50mph.

 

In Third Place was (Mark Willis) in his Pickup Truck 2000 with A Lap Time of 52.976 and an Average Speed of 82.08mph.

 

Three Very Quick and Capable Drivers all Fighting for the Victory In Tomorrow's Race but who will be up to the challenge of Taking 1st Place and Winning. Only One Way To Find Out.

 

Speedfest Silhouettes

 

Formally Known as the Silhouettes the Super Silhouettes Brought with them some fast and impressive Space Frame Machinery to the track.

 

With Aero Packages and Light Weight Monacock Chassis these Monsters were going to be something Amazing to watch Race.

 

But First Lets See how Qualifying Shapes up.

 

In First Place Taking Pole and The Fastest Lap was (Ray Harris in his Ginetta G40r with a Lap Time of 50.564 and an Average speed of 86.00mph. Either Crazy or Insane I would Describe that Incredible Lap of Brands. Amazing Work.

 

In Second Place was (Malcom Blackman) in his Vauxhall Tigra with A Lap Time of 50.805 and an Average Speed of 85.59mph Another Crazy Quick and on the Edge Lap.

 

In Third Place was (Lewis Smith) in his Mercedes SLK with a Lap Time of 51.313 and an Average Speed of 84.74mph. Three Very Fast and Capable Drivers in this Qualifying Session.

 

Incredible Speed and Fast Reflex Driving From Each Driver out there. It will be Exciting to see who can bring home a Victory and push their Machinery past its Limits and into New Territory. Another Race I'm Looking Forward to Seeing.

 

A Brilliant End to the Days Qualifying and seeing all that Machinery out there was Fantastic. Congratulations to all of the Qualifiers who made the Top Three in Every Support Race. Looking Ford To Tomorrow and a Very Fierce Set Of Battles Thought the Day.

Austin City Limts // Enrique Fabela ©

@ Austin City Limits Iris 2014

Canon 5D Mark III, Canon 24-70mm f/2.8 L // Canon 70-200 f2.8 II L IS

Fritz Scholder, Born Breckenridge, MN 1937-

died Phoenix, AZ 2005

 

Indian Image, 1972, acrylic on canvas, stretcher: 68 1⁄8 x 80 in.

 

The figure in Indian Image appears to be just that: a flat image, as if cut from paper and pasted onto a colorful background.

 

An artist of Luiseño and European ancestry, Fritz Scholder both did and did not identify as American Indian, and early in his career, he chose not to paint American Indian subjects. He changed his mind in the 1960s, after encountering countless artworks that depict American Indian people two-dimensionally, as doomed figures existing only in a romanticized past.

 

By contrast, Scholder asserted a modern American Indian aesthetic. Enlivened by pop-art color and energetic brushwork, his paintings are pointedly contemporary in style, even when based--as is?Indian Image--on a?historical photograph.

____________________________________

 

"Women, queer artists, and artists of color have finally become the protagonists of recent American art history rather than its supporting characters. This is the lesson to be learned from the programming at New York’s Whitney Museum of American Art since it reopened in 2015, and it is now the big takeaway in the nation’s capital, at the Smithsonian American Art Museum, whose contemporary art galleries have reopened after a two-year closure.

 

During that time, architect Annabelle Selldorf refurbished these galleries, which have the challenge of pushing art history’s limits without going too far. Her interventions in these spaces are fairly inoffensive. Mainly, she’s pared down some of the structural clutter, removing some walls that once broke up a long, marble-floored hallway. To the naked eye, the galleries are only slightly different.

 

What is contained within, however, has shifted more noticeably—and is likely to influence other museums endeavoring to diversify their galleries. For one thing, I have never encountered a permanent collection hang with more Latinx and Native American artists, who, until very recently, were severely under-represented in US museums. That unto itself is notable.

 

It is a joy to see, presiding over one tall gallery, three gigantic beaded tunics courtesy of Jeffrey Gibson, a Choctaw artist who will represent the US at the next Venice Biennale. Printed with bombastic patterning and hung on tipi poles, they hang over viewers’ heads and allude to the Ghost Shirts used by members of the Sioux to reach ancestral spirits. One says on it “WITHOUT YOU I’M NOTHING.” That statement can also be seen as a confession on behalf of SAAM’s curators to the artists now included in this rehang: a multiplicity of perspectives is more nourishing than having just one.

 

Something similar can be seen in Judith F. Baca’s Las Tres Marías (1976). The installation features a drawing of a shy-looking chola on one side and an image of Baca as a tough-as-nails Pachuca on the other. These are both Chicana personae—the former from the ’70s, the latter from the ’40s—and the third component, a long looking glass, sutures the viewer into the piece. It’s no surprise this piece is shaped like a folding mirror, an item used to examine how one may present to the outside world. Baca suggests that a single reflection isn’t enough. To truly understand one’s self, many are needed.

 

It is hardly as though the Smithsonian American Art Museum’s collection ever lacked diversity. Nam June Paik’s Electronic Superhighway: Continental U.S., Alaska, Hawaii (2002), a video installation featuring a map of the country with each state’s borders containing TV monitors, is a crown jewel of the collection. It has returned once more, where it now faces a 2020 Tiffany Chung piece showing a United States strung with thread. So, too, has Alma Thomas’s magnum opus, Red Azaleas Singing and Dancing Rock and Roll Music (1976), a three-part stunner showing an array of petal-like red swatches drifting across white space.

 

But the usual heroes of 20th century art history are notably absent. Partly, that is because the Smithsonian American Art Museum doesn’t own notable works by canonical figures like Andy Warhol, Jasper Johns, and Robert Rauschenberg. (For those artists, you’d have to head to the National Gallery of Art.) Yet it is also partly because the curators want to destabilize the accepted lineage of postwar American art, shaking things up a bit and seeing where they land.

 

There is, of course, the expected Abstract Expressionism gallery, and while works by Willem de Kooning and Clyfford Still are present, those two are made to share space with artists whose contributions are still being properly accounted for. The standouts here are a prismatic painting by Ojibwe artist George Morrison and a piquant hanging orb, formed from knotted steel wire, by Claire Falkenstein.

 

This being the nation’s capital, there is also an entire space devoted to the Washington Color School. Come for Morris Louis’s 20-foot-long Beta Upsilon (1960), on view for the first time in 30 years, now minus the pencil marks left on its vast white center by a troublemaking visitor a long time ago. Stay for Mary Pinchot Meyer’s Half Light (1964), a painting that features a circle divided into colored quadrants, one of which has two mysterious dots near one edge.

 

From there, the sense of chronology begins to blur. The Baca piece appears in a gallery that loosely takes stock of feminist art of the 1970s; a clear picture of the movement’s aims fails to emerge because the various artists’ goals appear so disparate. It’s followed by an even vaguer gallery whose stated focus is “Multiculturalism and Art” during the ’70s and ’80s. Beyond the fact that all five artists included are not white, the gallery doesn’t have much of a binding thesis.

 

This partial view of recent art history leads to gaps, which is both a good thing and a bad thing. It’s a good thing because it offers due recognition for art-historical nonpareils. Audrey Flack is represented by Queen (1976), a Photorealist painting showing a view of a sliced orange, a rose, photographs, a playing card, and trinkets blown up to a towering size. It’s both gaudy and glorious. Hats off to the curators for letting it shine.

 

Then there are two totem-like sculptures by the late Truman Lowe, a member of the Ho-Chunk Nation, that are allowed to command a tall space of their own. They feature sticks of peeled willow that zigzag through boxy lumber structures, and they refuse to enjoin themselves to any artistic trend. Later on, there are three deliciously odd paintings by Howard Finster, of Talking Heads album cover fame. One shows Jesus descended to a mountain range strewn with people and cars who scale the peaks. Try cramming that into the confines of an accepted art movement.

 

That’s just three lesser-knowns who make an impact—there are many others on hand, from Ching Ho Cheng to Ken Ohara. And yet, herein lies this hang’s big problem: its gaping omissions in between them all, which are likely to be visible not just to the literati of the art world but to the general public, too.

 

Despite the focus of these new galleries being the 1940s to now, Pop, Minimalism, Conceptualism, and their resultant offshoots are skipped over entirely as the curators rush through the postwar era in order to get closer to the present. The Paik installation aside, there is almost no video art in this hang (although there is a newly formed space for moving-image work where a Carrie Mae Weems installation can be found), and no digital art or performance documentation at all, which is a shame, given that the museum owns important works by the likes of Cory Arcangel and Ana Mendieta, respectively. The AIDS crisis of the 1980s and ’90s and its devastating impact on the art world isn’t mentioned a single time in the wall text for these new galleries, and queer art more broadly is a blind spot.

 

Protest art periodically makes the cut, but any invocation of racism, misogyny, colonialism, and the like is typically abstracted or aestheticized. That all makes a work like Frank Romero’s Death of Rubén Salazar (1986) stand out. The painting depicts the 1970 killing of a Los Angeles Times reporter in a café during an unrelated incident amid a Chicano-led protest against the high number of Latino deaths in the Vietnam War. With its vibrant explosions of tear gas (Salazar was killed when a tear gas canister shot by the LA Sheriff Department struck his head) and its intense brushwork, it is as direct as can be—a history painting for our times. So, too, in a much different way, is Consuelo Jimenez Underwood’s Run, Jane, Run! (2004), a piece that ports over the “Immigrant Crossing” sign, first installed near the US-Mexico border in Southern California in the 1990s, and remakes it as a yellow tapestry that is threaded with barbed wire.

 

In general, this presentation could use more art like Romero and Jimenez Underwood’s. Yet the curators at least cop to the fact they’re seeking to hold handsome craftmanship and ugly historical events in tension, and the methods on display are productive in that regard.

 

By way of example, there’s Firelei Báez 2022 painting Untitled (Première Carte Pour L’Introduction A L’Histoire De Monde), which features a spray of red-orange paint blooming across a page from an 18th-century atlas documenting Europe’s colonies. One could say Báez’s blast of color recalls the bloodshed of manifest destiny, but that seems like an unfair interpretation for a work that provides so much visual pleasure. Rather than re-presenting the violence of a bygone era, Báez beautifies it. The result allows history to begin anew—on Báez’s own terms."

 

www.artnews.com/art-news/reviews/smithsonian-american-art...

..

Faculdade UNA

Fotos: Adelcio Ramos/PMC

 

Com o objetivo de ouvir e dialogar com usuários do Transporte Especial Sem Limite, pessoas com deficiência física ou mobilidade reduzida, a Prefeitura de Contagem realizou, sábado (8/10), no auditório da UNA Contagem, o 1º Encontro Coletivo de Gestão Democrática do Serviço de Transporte Especial Sem Limite.

Na abertura do evento, a superintendente de Políticas Públicas para as Pessoas com Deficiência, Karla Regina Lopes, disse que o evento é uma forma de garantir a gestão democrática do serviço e de apurar as necessidades dos usuários, por meio de sugestões, críticas e elogios, contribuindo, assim, para a melhoria e avanços do serviço na cidade.

O Programa Sem Limite realiza o transporte gratuito de pessoas com deficiência física ou mobilidade reduzida do município para escolas e tratamentos médicos, garantindo o direito de ir e vir, promovendo dignidade, inclusão e cidadania. Contagem é uma das únicas cidades mineiras que mantém este tipo de transporte no Brasil.

Presente ao evento, o vice-prefeito Ricardo Faria ressaltou o compromisso da Prefeitura com as políticas públicas inclusivas e inovadoras. “O aspecto holístico do Programa Sem Limite envolve várias secretarias. As pessoas tem várias necessidades. Além de ir ao médico, elas também precisam de ir ao cinema e ao parque. São políticas como estas que melhoram a qualidade de vida das pessoas”, afirmou.

O secretário de Direitos Humanos e Cidadania, Marcelo Lino, destacou que o Programa Sem Limite é fruto de uma ousadia da prefeita Marília Campos, que escolheu investir na pessoa com deficiência, para garantir o direito de todos irem à escola e ao médico. Nestes 15 anos do Programa, queremos pensar coletivamente para que possamos ser ainda mais eficientes”, disse.

A estudante de Sistemas de Informação, Luana Oliveira, 26 anos, usa o Transporte Especial desde os 11 anos de idade. Hoje ela já está na faculdade e continua usando o serviço. “O Sem Limite é muito importante para garantir a minha mobilidade, conforto e segurança, porque ele me pega na porta da faculdade e me deixa na porta de casa. Como eu estudo a noite, sem esta segurança seria muito difícil pra mim, e esta abertura para o diálogo é muito importante para melhorias”, opinou.

A dona de casa, Daiane Flávia, achou importante participar do evento. Ela tem uma filha que faz o uso do Transporte Especial, que considera essencial na sua vida. “O Sem Limite facilita totalmente a minha vida, sem ele eu não poderia levar a minha filha para fazer os tratamentos que ela precisa. O serviço é muito bom e necessário. Se pudesse ser ampliado, seria melhor ainda”, disse.

Também participaram do evento, o presidente da Autarquia Municipal de Trânsito e Transportes de Contagem- Transcon, Marco Antônio Silveira, e o representante da Cooperativa de Transporte Inclusivo, Vanjo Barcelos.

Programa Sem Limite

É uma política pública do município, promovida com recursos, exclusivamente, do município. Desde 2007, o serviço já beneficiou centenas de pessoas e, atualmente, conta com 392 usuários credenciados e 24 vans disponíveis, com capacidade para transportar até três cadeirantes e seus acompanhantes.

O transporte tem a gestão e execução em formato de responsabilidade intersetorial, envolvendo as secretarias municipais de Direitos Humanos e Cidadania; de Desenvolvimento Social, Trabalho e Segurança Alimentar; de Saúde e de Educação, além da Autarquia Municipal de Trânsito e de Transportes de Contagem – TransCon.

 

The No Limits Bike Racing Championship made its formal Return to the World Famous Brands Hatch Grand Prix Circuit for a Very Special 8 Hour Endurance Race.

 

Each and Every Team Had a selection of High Powered Racing Machinery that would along with the Rider take on the Might of Brands Hatches' Grand Prix Circuit for a Gruelling 8 Hours Straight.

 

While Some Teams had as many as Four Riders to make the job a Little Bit Easier other Teams Had decided to go with just Two Riders for 4 Hours Each knowing they Had the Skills and Determination to Keep Racing Hard.

 

The Championship was in is Last Race of the Season here at Brands and Whoever Won this Final Event would take the No Limits Bike Racing Championship Crown.

 

Qualifying was up First and setting the Pace at the Top of the Timings was (Andelle Leathers / RatMally Graphic) on their Kawasaki 998/Kawasaki 1000 Racing Bikes with an Incredible Time of 1.31.846 and a Top Speed of 95.37 to take Pole at The Start of the Race.

 

In Second Place was (Delkevic Racing) Kawasaki 1000/BMW 1000/Kawasaki 1000 Yamaha 1000 Racing Bikes with a Lap Time of 1.31.784 and a Top Speed of 95.34mph.

 

In Third Place was (Earnshaw's Motorcycles) BMW 1000/BMW 1000 Racing Bikes with A Lap Time of 1.32.099 and an Top Speed of 95.11mph.

 

With Qualifying Over and a 11:46am Start Fast Approaching all of the Riders to head out for the First 2 Hours. Just like Old School Le Mans the Riders all Lined Up on the Opposite Side of the Pitlane with their Respective Teams Holding onto the Bikes Ready for them to Blast off into the Distance around the Circuit.

 

A Loud Bang from the Calcian Signalled the Start of an 8 Hour Endurance Race and each Rider Ran Towards their Bikes Fired them Up and Set off onto the Race Track.

 

During the First Hour All Riders Made it through the First Opening Laps without any Problems and already many of them were getting up to Speed while some other Riders Preferred to nurse their Machinery for the First Hour to Avoid anything Breaking or Failing on thease High Powered Machines.

 

As Hour two Approached Everyone was still going strong and The Riders were Each Getting into a Really Good Rhythm of the Grand Prix circuit while other Teams had opted to Head to the pits to swap Riders and Give themselves more of a chance to take Victory with a selection of different Talents and Bikes available.

 

The Start of Hour Three saw a lot of Different Battles Going on thought the field and on the Back Straight there was some Close Wheel to Wheel Action Between Every Rider traveling at Speeds close to Nearly 100mph. Some Riders were Pushing so Hard that Even their Front Wheels Rose into the Air Making for some Epic and Thrilling Moments. An Overtake by Rider Number 97 on 36 was the Highlight so Far.

 

Hour Four and Still Each Rider was not Giving Up on the Chance of Victory with Half of the Endurance Race Completed by Now it was Time for Another Rider Change and with Many Teams Heading for the Pits Once Again Each New Rider Ventured Out onto the Brands Hatch GP Circuit it Beautiful Sunlit Conditions Although thease Must Have Been Playing Havoc with the Visibility for the Riders. Non the Less After Just One Retirement Earlier Due to an Engine Fire and a Marshall that should Have Really Been More Prepared. the Remaining Riders Soldered on.

 

The Fifth Hour was now Upon them and after a Very Hectic and Fast set of Laps Earlier Many Riders were setting down into their Positions to make sure the Bike they were on would Survive to the End. Druids was a Place to witness some Incredible Overtakes During this Time with the Light Levels Lowering and The Riders Really Looking like they were Pushing Hard and Encouraging their Machines to solder onto Victory.

 

Hour Six and with the Light Levels Now Falling even Lower it looked like this Endurance Race would be Ending in Nearly Dark Conditions as the Rider Kept on Going. The Few Retirement's Earlier on during Hour 2 and 3 were now just a Memory in the Surviving Riders Minds who all had One Goal in Mind. Get This Bike to the End of The Race.

 

Hour Seven and by now the Light was Nearly all But Gone with the Last Rays of Sunshine Disappearing Entirely from the Tops of Druids and yet Despite this now disadvantage i terms of Having a lot less light The Riders Still Continued to Push Hard and Fight their was To Victory in the Closing Stages as the Race Reached its Climax.

 

The Final Hour was Finally here and Every Rider who Had Been Concentrating Hard all Day was Now in a Position to Push Hard for that Final Hour of Glory that would mean the Difference Between either a Race Victory or a Race Loss. As The Minuets Slowly Ticked Down and The Last Light of Day Had been Long Extinguished from the Circuit. it was the Team of (Delkevic Racing's Liam Marchant / Gary Johnson / James Edwards and Luke Scott who took a Resounding Victory after 232 Laps and a Gruelling 8 Hour's of Racing 2 For Each of The Riders. Congratulations Delkevic Racing an Incredible Achievement.

 

In Second Place was The Team of (Earnshaw's Motorcycles Jonathan Lodge and James Lodge) after 232 Laps and 4 Hour's Between Them a Super Effort and Very Well Deserved Second Place Battle Through some Very Tough Competitors.

 

In Third Place was (Josh Daley Racing/RC Express by Dafabet Josh Daley and Rob Hodson) after a Very Hard and Gruelling 231 Laps in the Seat of Their Racing Bikes. Amazing Work Josh Daley Racing Incredible Ride and a Very Well Deserved Third Place.

 

An Exceptional Day of Endurance Racing from the No Limits Bike Racing Championship with Delkevic Racing's Liam Marchant / Gary Johnson / James Edwards and Luke Scott Taking The Final Victory of the Season with Datasys Racing Mark Daines / Jeremy Watson / Johnny Panter and Joe Higham taking The Championship for 2021.

 

A Big Congratulations to all of the Riders who took Part in this Event in my Opinion you Made everyone who Races in the Bennet's British Super Bike Championship look like Amateurs. You Guys are the Real Deal and am Really Looking forward to Watching this Epic Race all over Again Next Year. Until Then Keep Racing and Never Give Up Hope of One Day Standing on the Top Step of the Podium.

      

The No Limits Bike Racing Championship made its formal Return to the World Famous Brands Hatch Grand Prix Circuit for a Very Special 8 Hour Endurance Race.

 

Each and Every Team Had a selection of High Powered Racing Machinery that would along with the Rider take on the Might of Brands Hatches' Grand Prix Circuit for a Gruelling 8 Hours Straight.

 

While Some Teams had as many as Four Riders to make the job a Little Bit Easier other Teams Had decided to go with just Two Riders for 4 Hours Each knowing they Had the Skills and Determination to Keep Racing Hard.

 

The Championship was in is Last Race of the Season here at Brands and Whoever Won this Final Event would take the No Limits Bike Racing Championship Crown.

 

Qualifying was up First and setting the Pace at the Top of the Timings was (Andelle Leathers / RatMally Graphic) on their Kawasaki 998/Kawasaki 1000 Racing Bikes with an Incredible Time of 1.31.846 and a Top Speed of 95.37 to take Pole at The Start of the Race.

 

In Second Place was (Delkevic Racing) Kawasaki 1000/BMW 1000/Kawasaki 1000 Yamaha 1000 Racing Bikes with a Lap Time of 1.31.784 and a Top Speed of 95.34mph.

 

In Third Place was (Earnshaw's Motorcycles) BMW 1000/BMW 1000 Racing Bikes with A Lap Time of 1.32.099 and an Top Speed of 95.11mph.

 

With Qualifying Over and a 11:46am Start Fast Approaching all of the Riders to head out for the First 2 Hours. Just like Old School Le Mans the Riders all Lined Up on the Opposite Side of the Pitlane with their Respective Teams Holding onto the Bikes Ready for them to Blast off into the Distance around the Circuit.

 

A Loud Bang from the Calcian Signalled the Start of an 8 Hour Endurance Race and each Rider Ran Towards their Bikes Fired them Up and Set off onto the Race Track.

 

During the First Hour All Riders Made it through the First Opening Laps without any Problems and already many of them were getting up to Speed while some other Riders Preferred to nurse their Machinery for the First Hour to Avoid anything Breaking or Failing on thease High Powered Machines.

 

As Hour two Approached Everyone was still going strong and The Riders were Each Getting into a Really Good Rhythm of the Grand Prix circuit while other Teams had opted to Head to the pits to swap Riders and Give themselves more of a chance to take Victory with a selection of different Talents and Bikes available.

 

The Start of Hour Three saw a lot of Different Battles Going on thought the field and on the Back Straight there was some Close Wheel to Wheel Action Between Every Rider traveling at Speeds close to Nearly 100mph. Some Riders were Pushing so Hard that Even their Front Wheels Rose into the Air Making for some Epic and Thrilling Moments. An Overtake by Rider Number 97 on 36 was the Highlight so Far.

 

Hour Four and Still Each Rider was not Giving Up on the Chance of Victory with Half of the Endurance Race Completed by Now it was Time for Another Rider Change and with Many Teams Heading for the Pits Once Again Each New Rider Ventured Out onto the Brands Hatch GP Circuit it Beautiful Sunlit Conditions Although thease Must Have Been Playing Havoc with the Visibility for the Riders. Non the Less After Just One Retirement Earlier Due to an Engine Fire and a Marshall that should Have Really Been More Prepared. the Remaining Riders Soldered on.

 

The Fifth Hour was now Upon them and after a Very Hectic and Fast set of Laps Earlier Many Riders were setting down into their Positions to make sure the Bike they were on would Survive to the End. Druids was a Place to witness some Incredible Overtakes During this Time with the Light Levels Lowering and The Riders Really Looking like they were Pushing Hard and Encouraging their Machines to solder onto Victory.

 

Hour Six and with the Light Levels Now Falling even Lower it looked like this Endurance Race would be Ending in Nearly Dark Conditions as the Rider Kept on Going. The Few Retirement's Earlier on during Hour 2 and 3 were now just a Memory in the Surviving Riders Minds who all had One Goal in Mind. Get This Bike to the End of The Race.

 

Hour Seven and by now the Light was Nearly all But Gone with the Last Rays of Sunshine Disappearing Entirely from the Tops of Druids and yet Despite this now disadvantage i terms of Having a lot less light The Riders Still Continued to Push Hard and Fight their was To Victory in the Closing Stages as the Race Reached its Climax.

 

The Final Hour was Finally here and Every Rider who Had Been Concentrating Hard all Day was Now in a Position to Push Hard for that Final Hour of Glory that would mean the Difference Between either a Race Victory or a Race Loss. As The Minuets Slowly Ticked Down and The Last Light of Day Had been Long Extinguished from the Circuit. it was the Team of (Delkevic Racing's Liam Marchant / Gary Johnson / James Edwards and Luke Scott who took a Resounding Victory after 232 Laps and a Gruelling 8 Hour's of Racing 2 For Each of The Riders. Congratulations Delkevic Racing an Incredible Achievement.

 

In Second Place was The Team of (Earnshaw's Motorcycles Jonathan Lodge and James Lodge) after 232 Laps and 4 Hour's Between Them a Super Effort and Very Well Deserved Second Place Battle Through some Very Tough Competitors.

 

In Third Place was (Josh Daley Racing/RC Express by Dafabet Josh Daley and Rob Hodson) after a Very Hard and Gruelling 231 Laps in the Seat of Their Racing Bikes. Amazing Work Josh Daley Racing Incredible Ride and a Very Well Deserved Third Place.

 

An Exceptional Day of Endurance Racing from the No Limits Bike Racing Championship with Delkevic Racing's Liam Marchant / Gary Johnson / James Edwards and Luke Scott Taking The Final Victory of the Season with Datasys Racing Mark Daines / Jeremy Watson / Johnny Panter and Joe Higham taking The Championship for 2021.

 

A Big Congratulations to all of the Riders who took Part in this Event in my Opinion you Made everyone who Races in the Bennet's British Super Bike Championship look like Amateurs. You Guys are the Real Deal and am Really Looking forward to Watching this Epic Race all over Again Next Year. Until Then Keep Racing and Never Give Up Hope of One Day Standing on the Top Step of the Podium.

      

The No Limits Bike Racing Championship made its formal Return to the World Famous Brands Hatch Grand Prix Circuit for a Very Special 8 Hour Endurance Race.

 

Each and Every Team Had a selection of High Powered Racing Machinery that would along with the Rider take on the Might of Brands Hatches' Grand Prix Circuit for a Gruelling 8 Hours Straight.

 

While Some Teams had as many as Four Riders to make the job a Little Bit Easier other Teams Had decided to go with just Two Riders for 4 Hours Each knowing they Had the Skills and Determination to Keep Racing Hard.

 

The Championship was in is Last Race of the Season here at Brands and Whoever Won this Final Event would take the No Limits Bike Racing Championship Crown.

 

Qualifying was up First and setting the Pace at the Top of the Timings was (Andelle Leathers / RatMally Graphic) on their Kawasaki 998/Kawasaki 1000 Racing Bikes with an Incredible Time of 1.31.846 and a Top Speed of 95.37 to take Pole at The Start of the Race.

 

In Second Place was (Delkevic Racing) Kawasaki 1000/BMW 1000/Kawasaki 1000 Yamaha 1000 Racing Bikes with a Lap Time of 1.31.784 and a Top Speed of 95.34mph.

 

In Third Place was (Earnshaw's Motorcycles) BMW 1000/BMW 1000 Racing Bikes with A Lap Time of 1.32.099 and an Top Speed of 95.11mph.

 

With Qualifying Over and a 11:46am Start Fast Approaching all of the Riders to head out for the First 2 Hours. Just like Old School Le Mans the Riders all Lined Up on the Opposite Side of the Pitlane with their Respective Teams Holding onto the Bikes Ready for them to Blast off into the Distance around the Circuit.

 

A Loud Bang from the Calcian Signalled the Start of an 8 Hour Endurance Race and each Rider Ran Towards their Bikes Fired them Up and Set off onto the Race Track.

 

During the First Hour All Riders Made it through the First Opening Laps without any Problems and already many of them were getting up to Speed while some other Riders Preferred to nurse their Machinery for the First Hour to Avoid anything Breaking or Failing on thease High Powered Machines.

 

As Hour two Approached Everyone was still going strong and The Riders were Each Getting into a Really Good Rhythm of the Grand Prix circuit while other Teams had opted to Head to the pits to swap Riders and Give themselves more of a chance to take Victory with a selection of different Talents and Bikes available.

 

The Start of Hour Three saw a lot of Different Battles Going on thought the field and on the Back Straight there was some Close Wheel to Wheel Action Between Every Rider traveling at Speeds close to Nearly 100mph. Some Riders were Pushing so Hard that Even their Front Wheels Rose into the Air Making for some Epic and Thrilling Moments. An Overtake by Rider Number 97 on 36 was the Highlight so Far.

 

Hour Four and Still Each Rider was not Giving Up on the Chance of Victory with Half of the Endurance Race Completed by Now it was Time for Another Rider Change and with Many Teams Heading for the Pits Once Again Each New Rider Ventured Out onto the Brands Hatch GP Circuit it Beautiful Sunlit Conditions Although thease Must Have Been Playing Havoc with the Visibility for the Riders. Non the Less After Just One Retirement Earlier Due to an Engine Fire and a Marshall that should Have Really Been More Prepared. the Remaining Riders Soldered on.

 

The Fifth Hour was now Upon them and after a Very Hectic and Fast set of Laps Earlier Many Riders were setting down into their Positions to make sure the Bike they were on would Survive to the End. Druids was a Place to witness some Incredible Overtakes During this Time with the Light Levels Lowering and The Riders Really Looking like they were Pushing Hard and Encouraging their Machines to solder onto Victory.

 

Hour Six and with the Light Levels Now Falling even Lower it looked like this Endurance Race would be Ending in Nearly Dark Conditions as the Rider Kept on Going. The Few Retirement's Earlier on during Hour 2 and 3 were now just a Memory in the Surviving Riders Minds who all had One Goal in Mind. Get This Bike to the End of The Race.

 

Hour Seven and by now the Light was Nearly all But Gone with the Last Rays of Sunshine Disappearing Entirely from the Tops of Druids and yet Despite this now disadvantage i terms of Having a lot less light The Riders Still Continued to Push Hard and Fight their was To Victory in the Closing Stages as the Race Reached its Climax.

 

The Final Hour was Finally here and Every Rider who Had Been Concentrating Hard all Day was Now in a Position to Push Hard for that Final Hour of Glory that would mean the Difference Between either a Race Victory or a Race Loss. As The Minuets Slowly Ticked Down and The Last Light of Day Had been Long Extinguished from the Circuit. it was the Team of (Delkevic Racing's Liam Marchant / Gary Johnson / James Edwards and Luke Scott who took a Resounding Victory after 232 Laps and a Gruelling 8 Hour's of Racing 2 For Each of The Riders. Congratulations Delkevic Racing an Incredible Achievement.

 

In Second Place was The Team of (Earnshaw's Motorcycles Jonathan Lodge and James Lodge) after 232 Laps and 4 Hour's Between Them a Super Effort and Very Well Deserved Second Place Battle Through some Very Tough Competitors.

 

In Third Place was (Josh Daley Racing/RC Express by Dafabet Josh Daley and Rob Hodson) after a Very Hard and Gruelling 231 Laps in the Seat of Their Racing Bikes. Amazing Work Josh Daley Racing Incredible Ride and a Very Well Deserved Third Place.

 

An Exceptional Day of Endurance Racing from the No Limits Bike Racing Championship with Delkevic Racing's Liam Marchant / Gary Johnson / James Edwards and Luke Scott Taking The Final Victory of the Season with Datasys Racing Mark Daines / Jeremy Watson / Johnny Panter and Joe Higham taking The Championship for 2021.

 

A Big Congratulations to all of the Riders who took Part in this Event in my Opinion you Made everyone who Races in the Bennet's British Super Bike Championship look like Amateurs. You Guys are the Real Deal and am Really Looking forward to Watching this Epic Race all over Again Next Year. Until Then Keep Racing and Never Give Up Hope of One Day Standing on the Top Step of the Podium.

      

WPT Alpha 8 Florida (S2) Day 1

The No Limits Bike Racing Championship made its formal Return to the World Famous Brands Hatch Grand Prix Circuit for a Very Special 8 Hour Endurance Race.

 

Each and Every Team Had a selection of High Powered Racing Machinery that would along with the Rider take on the Might of Brands Hatches' Grand Prix Circuit for a Gruelling 8 Hours Straight.

 

While Some Teams had as many as Four Riders to make the job a Little Bit Easier other Teams Had decided to go with just Two Riders for 4 Hours Each knowing they Had the Skills and Determination to Keep Racing Hard.

 

The Championship was in is Last Race of the Season here at Brands and Whoever Won this Final Event would take the No Limits Bike Racing Championship Crown.

 

Qualifying was up First and setting the Pace at the Top of the Timings was (Andelle Leathers / RatMally Graphic) on their Kawasaki 998/Kawasaki 1000 Racing Bikes with an Incredible Time of 1.31.846 and a Top Speed of 95.37 to take Pole at The Start of the Race.

 

In Second Place was (Delkevic Racing) Kawasaki 1000/BMW 1000/Kawasaki 1000 Yamaha 1000 Racing Bikes with a Lap Time of 1.31.784 and a Top Speed of 95.34mph.

 

In Third Place was (Earnshaw's Motorcycles) BMW 1000/BMW 1000 Racing Bikes with A Lap Time of 1.32.099 and an Top Speed of 95.11mph.

 

With Qualifying Over and a 11:46am Start Fast Approaching all of the Riders to head out for the First 2 Hours. Just like Old School Le Mans the Riders all Lined Up on the Opposite Side of the Pitlane with their Respective Teams Holding onto the Bikes Ready for them to Blast off into the Distance around the Circuit.

 

A Loud Bang from the Calcian Signalled the Start of an 8 Hour Endurance Race and each Rider Ran Towards their Bikes Fired them Up and Set off onto the Race Track.

 

During the First Hour All Riders Made it through the First Opening Laps without any Problems and already many of them were getting up to Speed while some other Riders Preferred to nurse their Machinery for the First Hour to Avoid anything Breaking or Failing on thease High Powered Machines.

 

As Hour two Approached Everyone was still going strong and The Riders were Each Getting into a Really Good Rhythm of the Grand Prix circuit while other Teams had opted to Head to the pits to swap Riders and Give themselves more of a chance to take Victory with a selection of different Talents and Bikes available.

 

The Start of Hour Three saw a lot of Different Battles Going on thought the field and on the Back Straight there was some Close Wheel to Wheel Action Between Every Rider traveling at Speeds close to Nearly 100mph. Some Riders were Pushing so Hard that Even their Front Wheels Rose into the Air Making for some Epic and Thrilling Moments. An Overtake by Rider Number 97 on 36 was the Highlight so Far.

 

Hour Four and Still Each Rider was not Giving Up on the Chance of Victory with Half of the Endurance Race Completed by Now it was Time for Another Rider Change and with Many Teams Heading for the Pits Once Again Each New Rider Ventured Out onto the Brands Hatch GP Circuit it Beautiful Sunlit Conditions Although thease Must Have Been Playing Havoc with the Visibility for the Riders. Non the Less After Just One Retirement Earlier Due to an Engine Fire and a Marshall that should Have Really Been More Prepared. the Remaining Riders Soldered on.

 

The Fifth Hour was now Upon them and after a Very Hectic and Fast set of Laps Earlier Many Riders were setting down into their Positions to make sure the Bike they were on would Survive to the End. Druids was a Place to witness some Incredible Overtakes During this Time with the Light Levels Lowering and The Riders Really Looking like they were Pushing Hard and Encouraging their Machines to solder onto Victory.

 

Hour Six and with the Light Levels Now Falling even Lower it looked like this Endurance Race would be Ending in Nearly Dark Conditions as the Rider Kept on Going. The Few Retirement's Earlier on during Hour 2 and 3 were now just a Memory in the Surviving Riders Minds who all had One Goal in Mind. Get This Bike to the End of The Race.

 

Hour Seven and by now the Light was Nearly all But Gone with the Last Rays of Sunshine Disappearing Entirely from the Tops of Druids and yet Despite this now disadvantage i terms of Having a lot less light The Riders Still Continued to Push Hard and Fight their was To Victory in the Closing Stages as the Race Reached its Climax.

 

The Final Hour was Finally here and Every Rider who Had Been Concentrating Hard all Day was Now in a Position to Push Hard for that Final Hour of Glory that would mean the Difference Between either a Race Victory or a Race Loss. As The Minuets Slowly Ticked Down and The Last Light of Day Had been Long Extinguished from the Circuit. it was the Team of (Delkevic Racing's Liam Marchant / Gary Johnson / James Edwards and Luke Scott who took a Resounding Victory after 232 Laps and a Gruelling 8 Hour's of Racing 2 For Each of The Riders. Congratulations Delkevic Racing an Incredible Achievement.

 

In Second Place was The Team of (Earnshaw's Motorcycles Jonathan Lodge and James Lodge) after 232 Laps and 4 Hour's Between Them a Super Effort and Very Well Deserved Second Place Battle Through some Very Tough Competitors.

 

In Third Place was (Josh Daley Racing/RC Express by Dafabet Josh Daley and Rob Hodson) after a Very Hard and Gruelling 231 Laps in the Seat of Their Racing Bikes. Amazing Work Josh Daley Racing Incredible Ride and a Very Well Deserved Third Place.

 

An Exceptional Day of Endurance Racing from the No Limits Bike Racing Championship with Delkevic Racing's Liam Marchant / Gary Johnson / James Edwards and Luke Scott Taking The Final Victory of the Season with Datasys Racing Mark Daines / Jeremy Watson / Johnny Panter and Joe Higham taking The Championship for 2021.

 

A Big Congratulations to all of the Riders who took Part in this Event in my Opinion you Made everyone who Races in the Bennet's British Super Bike Championship look like Amateurs. You Guys are the Real Deal and am Really Looking forward to Watching this Epic Race all over Again Next Year. Until Then Keep Racing and Never Give Up Hope of One Day Standing on the Top Step of the Podium.

      

The No Limits Bike Racing Championship made its formal Return to the World Famous Brands Hatch Grand Prix Circuit for a Very Special 8 Hour Endurance Race.

 

Each and Every Team Had a selection of High Powered Racing Machinery that would along with the Rider take on the Might of Brands Hatches' Grand Prix Circuit for a Gruelling 8 Hours Straight.

 

While Some Teams had as many as Four Riders to make the job a Little Bit Easier other Teams Had decided to go with just Two Riders for 4 Hours Each knowing they Had the Skills and Determination to Keep Racing Hard.

 

The Championship was in is Last Race of the Season here at Brands and Whoever Won this Final Event would take the No Limits Bike Racing Championship Crown.

 

Qualifying was up First and setting the Pace at the Top of the Timings was (Andelle Leathers / RatMally Graphic) on their Kawasaki 998/Kawasaki 1000 Racing Bikes with an Incredible Time of 1.31.846 and a Top Speed of 95.37 to take Pole at The Start of the Race.

 

In Second Place was (Delkevic Racing) Kawasaki 1000/BMW 1000/Kawasaki 1000 Yamaha 1000 Racing Bikes with a Lap Time of 1.31.784 and a Top Speed of 95.34mph.

 

In Third Place was (Earnshaw's Motorcycles) BMW 1000/BMW 1000 Racing Bikes with A Lap Time of 1.32.099 and an Top Speed of 95.11mph.

 

With Qualifying Over and a 11:46am Start Fast Approaching all of the Riders to head out for the First 2 Hours. Just like Old School Le Mans the Riders all Lined Up on the Opposite Side of the Pitlane with their Respective Teams Holding onto the Bikes Ready for them to Blast off into the Distance around the Circuit.

 

A Loud Bang from the Calcian Signalled the Start of an 8 Hour Endurance Race and each Rider Ran Towards their Bikes Fired them Up and Set off onto the Race Track.

 

During the First Hour All Riders Made it through the First Opening Laps without any Problems and already many of them were getting up to Speed while some other Riders Preferred to nurse their Machinery for the First Hour to Avoid anything Breaking or Failing on thease High Powered Machines.

 

As Hour two Approached Everyone was still going strong and The Riders were Each Getting into a Really Good Rhythm of the Grand Prix circuit while other Teams had opted to Head to the pits to swap Riders and Give themselves more of a chance to take Victory with a selection of different Talents and Bikes available.

 

The Start of Hour Three saw a lot of Different Battles Going on thought the field and on the Back Straight there was some Close Wheel to Wheel Action Between Every Rider traveling at Speeds close to Nearly 100mph. Some Riders were Pushing so Hard that Even their Front Wheels Rose into the Air Making for some Epic and Thrilling Moments. An Overtake by Rider Number 97 on 36 was the Highlight so Far.

 

Hour Four and Still Each Rider was not Giving Up on the Chance of Victory with Half of the Endurance Race Completed by Now it was Time for Another Rider Change and with Many Teams Heading for the Pits Once Again Each New Rider Ventured Out onto the Brands Hatch GP Circuit it Beautiful Sunlit Conditions Although thease Must Have Been Playing Havoc with the Visibility for the Riders. Non the Less After Just One Retirement Earlier Due to an Engine Fire and a Marshall that should Have Really Been More Prepared. the Remaining Riders Soldered on.

 

The Fifth Hour was now Upon them and after a Very Hectic and Fast set of Laps Earlier Many Riders were setting down into their Positions to make sure the Bike they were on would Survive to the End. Druids was a Place to witness some Incredible Overtakes During this Time with the Light Levels Lowering and The Riders Really Looking like they were Pushing Hard and Encouraging their Machines to solder onto Victory.

 

Hour Six and with the Light Levels Now Falling even Lower it looked like this Endurance Race would be Ending in Nearly Dark Conditions as the Rider Kept on Going. The Few Retirement's Earlier on during Hour 2 and 3 were now just a Memory in the Surviving Riders Minds who all had One Goal in Mind. Get This Bike to the End of The Race.

 

Hour Seven and by now the Light was Nearly all But Gone with the Last Rays of Sunshine Disappearing Entirely from the Tops of Druids and yet Despite this now disadvantage i terms of Having a lot less light The Riders Still Continued to Push Hard and Fight their was To Victory in the Closing Stages as the Race Reached its Climax.

 

The Final Hour was Finally here and Every Rider who Had Been Concentrating Hard all Day was Now in a Position to Push Hard for that Final Hour of Glory that would mean the Difference Between either a Race Victory or a Race Loss. As The Minuets Slowly Ticked Down and The Last Light of Day Had been Long Extinguished from the Circuit. it was the Team of (Delkevic Racing's Liam Marchant / Gary Johnson / James Edwards and Luke Scott who took a Resounding Victory after 232 Laps and a Gruelling 8 Hour's of Racing 2 For Each of The Riders. Congratulations Delkevic Racing an Incredible Achievement.

 

In Second Place was The Team of (Earnshaw's Motorcycles Jonathan Lodge and James Lodge) after 232 Laps and 4 Hour's Between Them a Super Effort and Very Well Deserved Second Place Battle Through some Very Tough Competitors.

 

In Third Place was (Josh Daley Racing/RC Express by Dafabet Josh Daley and Rob Hodson) after a Very Hard and Gruelling 231 Laps in the Seat of Their Racing Bikes. Amazing Work Josh Daley Racing Incredible Ride and a Very Well Deserved Third Place.

 

An Exceptional Day of Endurance Racing from the No Limits Bike Racing Championship with Delkevic Racing's Liam Marchant / Gary Johnson / James Edwards and Luke Scott Taking The Final Victory of the Season with Datasys Racing Mark Daines / Jeremy Watson / Johnny Panter and Joe Higham taking The Championship for 2021.

 

A Big Congratulations to all of the Riders who took Part in this Event in my Opinion you Made everyone who Races in the Bennet's British Super Bike Championship look like Amateurs. You Guys are the Real Deal and am Really Looking forward to Watching this Epic Race all over Again Next Year. Until Then Keep Racing and Never Give Up Hope of One Day Standing on the Top Step of the Podium.

      

American Speedfest 8 Returned to Brands Hatch for another Fantastic American themed weekend Featuring the likes of Euro Nascar Legends and even Angelo American Formula 5000's Racing this weekender event was shaping up to be a good one.

 

The First Day was mostly focused on Qualifying with many of the Races taking Place on the Sunday. Each of the Teams was both busy in the outer Paddock and the Pitlane getting their cars ready for a shakedown session in which they would have to Qualify to see who could be the Fastest and take Pole Position for each of the Races come Sunday.

 

Angelo American Formula 5000

 

The Formula 5000's made a Thunderous return to the Brands Hatch circuit, Built during a time where many Formula 1 cars from the likes of Lotus Williams and McLaren we using Ground Effect and pushing up the speeds of their cars.

 

Formula 5000's took speeds to a whole new level by using V8 Engines to power their cars which were found to be even faster than those Formula 1 cars of that era on the straights of different race tracks. Chevron B37's and McRae GM1'S were amongst the field and Qualifying looked to be very close indeed.

 

In First Place taking Pole Position and The Fastest Lap was (Neil Glover) in his Chevron B37 with a Lap Time of 47.039 with an average speed of 92.44mph. An Insanely Fast Lap Time for Brands Hatches Indy Circuit.

 

In Second Place was (Mark Campfield) in his Chevron B24 with A Lap Time Of 47.694 and an Average Speed of 91.17mph still Impressively quick for Chevron Power.

 

In Third Place was (Greg Thornton) in his Chevron B24 with A Lap Time Of 47.775 with an Average Speed of 91.02mph showing the power of the Chevron Engine through every turn.

 

A Tightly Packed Grid for Sundays Race and it looks like its a Chevron Front Row lockout but who's car will have the power to Triumph over the others? only time will tell.

 

Bernie's Sports And V8's

 

Bernie's V8's were up next and showcased a lot of Impressive V8 Powered Machinery on the grid. Talbot Sunbeams, Austin Healey's and even MGB GT V8 powered Machinery hitting the Track during Qualifying. Lets see what V8 Power can do and which Drivers managed to tame the Beasts and make it into the top three.

 

In First Place Taking Pole Position and the Fastest Lap was the Duo of (Elis Mar/Elis Mat) in their Talbot Sunbeam Lotus with a Lap Time of 54.533 and an Average speed of 79.74mph. Fast and Furious Driving on display once again.

 

In Second Place was (James Plant) in his Austin Healey 106 with a Lap Time of 54.964 and an Average Speed of 79.11mph. Very Quick and Consistent Laps seen from James behind the wheel too.

 

In Third Place was the Duo of (Can/Wilson) in their Aston Martin V8 Vantage with a lap time of 55.397 and an Average speed of 78.49mph. Showing just how much power and Grunt that Aston has.

 

Another Fantastic set of V8 Powered Machines on Display showing the true power of the American Built V8'S and how they changed the game in terms of Racing and Road Going Cars. Who will win the Race on Sunday. Will have to wait and see.

 

Legends Cars Championship

 

Referred to as the Little Pocket Rockets these small Looking Cars may not loo like they have anything Special to offer but just wait until you see what these little Wolves in Sheep's clothing can do once out on the Track.

 

Using Motorbike Engines of 1200cc they Really do show on Track just how lightweight and fast they are and Slip Streaming is commonly a way of being able to Achieve a Faster Lap time by using the Driver in fronts Slip Stream to aid in the Aerodynamics of the Car and Reduce Drag. Lets see what Happened during Qualifying Heat 2

 

In First Place Taking Pole and Setting The Fastest Lap was (Chris Dewey) in his Legend with a Lap Time Of 56.700 with an Average Speed of 76.69mph. Crazy Fast for Something so small and yet very Agile in Control.

 

In Second Place was (Stephen Whitelegg) in his Legend 34 Ford Coupe with a Lap Time of 56.740 and an Average Speed of 76.64mph. First And Second look to be very close together Thanks to the aids in Slip Streaming down the Brabham Straight to gain positions or Fastest Laps.

 

In Third Place was (Miles Rudman) in his Legend 34 Coupe with a Lap Time Of 56.878. Very Close between the Top three and it just goes to show how Important Slip Streaming is to Gain an Advantage in this Qualifying Session.

 

Exciting Stuff Ahead of The

Legends Races on Sunday where One of the Drivers will Win the Race and Take the Victory, Who Will it be? Only Time Will Tell.

 

Nascar Whelen Euro Series-Pro

 

The Main Highlight Event of the Day and the Nascar's with their Thunderous Powered V8 Engines Roared onto the Indy Circuit and with Two Formation Laps Completed to Warm Up the Tyres every car was released to Start Qualifying. Lets See How the Grid Will Shape Up.

 

In First Place to Take Pole and The Fastest Lap was (Alon Day) in his Chevrolet Camaro Caal Racing with a Lap Time of 48.903 and an Average Speed of 88.92mph. I wonder if Marty McFly and Dock Brown were part of their Race Team to Achieve that Impressive Lap Time? Non the Less Amazing Work by Alon Day.

 

In Second Place was (Loris Hezemans) in his Ford Mustang Hedrik's Motorsport) with a Lap Time of 49.000 and an Average Speed of 88.74mph. Another Fast and Consistent Lap From Loris showing the Balance Between Driver and Car.

 

In Third Place was (Nicolo Rocca) in his Chevrolet Camaro DF1 Racing) with A Lap Time of 49.292 and an Average Speed of 88.22mph. All Three Drivers seem to be very close in terms of Lap Times and this will make for some Exciting Racing Come Race Day.

 

Close and Competitive Racing in Nascar-Pro but who will have the Power to Push even Harder and take Home The Victory come Race Day. We will have to wait and See.

 

EuroNascar-2

 

Euro Nascar-2 is A a series of Slightly Lower Tuned Nascar's that Features as a Way of Getting Drivers ready to head to the Big Time Nascar Racing that takes Place at Daytona and Indianapolis.

 

Drivers must First Prove themselves worthy by Starting out from the Bottom and Only The Best Drivers in the World can make it into Nascar's Top Level Racing Teams.

 

Lets See how the Grid Lines up and see who managed to Qualify the Fastest and take Pole Position.

 

In First Place and Taking Pole Position and The Fastest Lap was (Advait DeoDHar) in his Ford Mustang Caal Racing with A Lap Time Of 49.918 and An Average Speed of 87.11mph. A Really Well Controlled Lap and a very Focused Mind to Achieve such a Drive.

 

In Second Place was (Tobias Dauenhauer) in his Ford Mustang Hendriks Motorsport with a Lap Time Of 50.110 and an Average Speed Of 86.78mph. Really Well Done and a very Quick Driver and Car underneath Him.

 

In Third Place was (Justin Kunz ) in his Chevrolet Camaro DF1 Racing with A Lap Time Of 50.161. Very Fast and Consistent with the Top Three all Very Close and Ready to take on the Race and see who can Battle and Fight for a Victory.

 

An Exciting Qualifying Session for both Nascar-Pro and Euro Nascar-2 with Each set of Driver Showing the Speed Power and Machinery of the Great American State. Looking Forward To Seeing what Happens During The Race.

 

Pickup Trucks Championship

 

The Pickup Trucks Returned to Brands Hatch for Another High Speed Weekend of Flat Out Racing around the Indy Circuit. With Light Weight Chassis and Powerful Engines it was shaping up to be a very Large and Competitive Grid for Pickup Trucks.

 

In First Place Taking Pole Position and the Fastest Lap was (Reece Jones) in his Pick Up Truck 2000 with a Lap Time of 52.634 with an Average Speed of 82.61mph.

 

In Second Place was (George Turiccki) in his Pickup Truck 2000 with A Lap Time of 52.706mph and an average speed of 82.50mph.

 

In Third Place was (Mark Willis) in his Pickup Truck 2000 with A Lap Time of 52.976 and an Average Speed of 82.08mph.

 

Three Very Quick and Capable Drivers all Fighting for the Victory In Tomorrow's Race but who will be up to the challenge of Taking 1st Place and Winning. Only One Way To Find Out.

 

Speedfest Silhouettes

 

Formally Known as the Silhouettes the Super Silhouettes Brought with them some fast and impressive Space Frame Machinery to the track.

 

With Aero Packages and Light Weight Monacock Chassis these Monsters were going to be something Amazing to watch Race.

 

But First Lets See how Qualifying Shapes up.

 

In First Place Taking Pole and The Fastest Lap was (Ray Harris in his Ginetta G40r with a Lap Time of 50.564 and an Average speed of 86.00mph. Either Crazy or Insane I would Describe that Incredible Lap of Brands. Amazing Work.

 

In Second Place was (Malcom Blackman) in his Vauxhall Tigra with A Lap Time of 50.805 and an Average Speed of 85.59mph Another Crazy Quick and on the Edge Lap.

 

In Third Place was (Lewis Smith) in his Mercedes SLK with a Lap Time of 51.313 and an Average Speed of 84.74mph. Three Very Fast and Capable Drivers in this Qualifying Session.

 

Incredible Speed and Fast Reflex Driving From Each Driver out there. It will be Exciting to see who can bring home a Victory and push their Machinery past its Limits and into New Territory. Another Race I'm Looking Forward to Seeing.

 

A Brilliant End to the Days Qualifying and seeing all that Machinery out there was Fantastic. Congratulations to all of the Qualifiers who made the Top Three in Every Support Race. Looking Ford To Tomorrow and a Very Fierce Set Of Battles Thought the Day.

WPT Alpha 8 Florida (S2) Day 1

twitter.com/Memoire2cite #ANRU 2 #SaintEtienne #Montchovet Rue Pierre Loti #destruction #HLM du batiment 5 via #TPMDEMOLITION #Mémoire2cité #Mémoire2ville @ Architectes H. GOUYON , E. HUR , CLEMENT , CARROT , MAUHAUDIER Un #GRANDENSEMBLE de 1962 #VilledeSaintEtienne #DEMOLITION au 21 JUIN 2021 @ HABITAT et METROPOLE soit l'OPAC 1er bailleur de la ville et de toute la région @ le #Logementsocial dans tous ses états..Histoire & Mémoire de l' #Habitat / #SAINTETIENNE #ANRU #DEMOLITION #Banlieue #RenouvellementUrbain #Mémoire2cité #HLM cinematheque.saint-etienne.fr/Default/SearchMinify/CfGzVz... @ #ANRU #Demolition - Après 1945, les collines agricoles du sud-est de la ville connaissent un programme d’urbanisation de grande ampleur pour répondre à la crise du logement. Près de 4600 logements sociaux vont ainsi être construits en quatre tranches successives de 1953 à 1970 : Beaulieu, la Marandinière, Montchovet, la Métare et la Palle formant aujourd’hui les quartiers sud-est. Touché par la crise économique et urbaine de dingue, le secteur sud-est apparaît à la fin des années 1990 comme un espace monofonctionnel dédié en totalité à l’habitat locatif social et porté par un seul bailleur l'OPAC devenu Métropole Habitat. Bien que bénéficiant de nombreux atouts (accessibilité et environnement agréable...), le quartier souffre du gigantisme de son urbanisation et du manque de résidentialisation des unités d’habitation. Par une action en profondeur et dans la durée, la Ville de Saint-Étienne, à travers son Programme de Rénovation Urbaine (PRU), a amorcé une transformation durable du quartier depuis 1989 avec la 1ere demolition du programme à la rue Pierre Loti le 31 janvier 1989 (BANLIEUE89), 30 ans de renouvellement urbain sur la ville.... une ville pilote en la matiere des 1990. Aujourd'hui et demain Les quartiers sud-est vont poursuivre leur mutation, avec l’appui continu de l’Agence Nationale de Rénovation Urbaine et ses partenaires l'ANRU2. Développer le secteur économiqueL'objectif est de dynamiser l’économie dans ce territoire en portant de nouveaux projets et en restructurant l’offre commerciale de proximité. La Ville de Saint-Étienne a prévu la création de nouvelles zones d’activités permettant l’accueil d’entreprises. Ainsi une zone d’activités économiques, rue Pierre Loti, répondra aux besoins fonciers des entreprises et des artisans locaux. Ce projet de zone économique, en visibilité directe de la RN 88, permettra l’implantation d’une cinquantaine d’entreprises et la création de 300 emplois. Un nouveau centre commercial sur le secteur de la Marandinière, couplé à la démolition des centres commerciaux de la Palle et Sembat, permettra de restructurer et moderniser l’offre commerciale de proximité. Renouveller l'offre d'habitat Une qualité résidentielle s’affirme progressivement au sein des quartiers Sud-Est, grâce à une nouvelle offre d’habitat variée qui émerge depuis plusieurs années. Les nombreuses démolitions réalisées et à venir (Boulevard des Mineurs en 2018 et immeubles Loti en 2020), ainsi que les réhabilitations d’immeubles en cours, vont permettre de diversifier l’offre de logements. L’un des objectifs du projet urbain est donc de conforter la vocation résidentielle du quartier en stimulant l’offre et en accompagnant des projets comme la construction de logements passifs sur le secteur de Beaulieu, la transformation de l’ancienne école Baptiste-Marcet et la réhabilitation de logements à Monchovet. Améliorer le cadre de vie des habitantsLes quartiers sud-est bénéficient d’un environnement naturellement riche et varié, à l’interface entre les grands parcs de la ville (jardin des Plantes, parc de l’Europe, Bois d’Avaize) et le Pilat. Le projet urbain de la Ville de Saint-Étienne prévoit de relier ces espaces naturels entre-eux avec la création d’une continuité verte, qui permettra aux marcheurs et autres randonneurs de bénéficier d’un véritable réseau de chemins autour de la commune. Le boulevard Alexandre-de-Fraissinette, véritable colonne vertébrale du quartier, et la rue Pierre-Loti seront entièrement revus pour assurer un meilleur partage de l’espace entre tous les modes de déplacements (voiture, vélo et piéton) et assurer un maillage inter-quartiers plus efficace. fr.calameo.com/read/0005441131b4119eaa674Depuis 2014, la rénovation urbaine dans les quartiers sud-est s’est traduite par de nombreux travaux: la construction du centre commercial de la Grande Marandinière, l’aménagement d’un lotissement de treize maisons individuelles passives, impasse Clémenceau, les rénovations des écoles de Montchovet et de Beaulieu, la réhabilitation de locaux rue Henri-Dunant (pour y installer la Maison des associations), et enfin les démolitions récentes du centre commercial du boulevard de la Palle et d’un garage, au 41 rue de Terrenoire.Démolitions mais aussi constructions sont au programme. Plusieurs acteurs entrent en jeu dans le financement de ces projets, notamment l’ANRU (Agence nationale de rénovation urbaine) mais aussi la Ville, le Département et la Région. Ainsi, le contrat avec l’ANRU, signé le 14 mars, dégage une somme de 23 millions d’euros, somme à laquelle il faut ajouter 3,3 millions d’euros de la Région. Pour les années à venir, les objectifs visent à la poursuite du développement économique, de la mutation de l’habitat par des constructions individuelles ou de petits immeubles, des démolitions ponctuelles, de la valorisation des espaces publics et du renforcement des espaces du quartier. Deux secteurs sont concernés : Loti et la Grande Marandinière. Le 11 AVRIL 1964, le développement de la ville de Saint Etienne, et ses travaux ..La ville de Saint Etienne se développe tout comme l'ensemble du territoire... Pour accompagner cet accroissement de population, de nouveaux quartiers se construisent aux abords de la ville chaque jours. Et pour faire face aux problèmes de circulation, un boulevard périphérique a été aménagé. Réalisé à l'occasion de la construction de la déviation sud de l'autoroute de Saint Etienne, ce reportage témoigne de la visite du sénateur maire de la ville, Mr. Michel DURAFOUR, sur le chantier du tunnel de la déviation. Accueilli par Mr. Rocher, président de la société forêzienne de travaux publics, Michel DURAFOUR découvre avec les membres du conseil municipal l'avancée des travaux. (voir aussi le chantier de l A 47 avec la video du tunnel du rond-point içi : www.ina.fr/video/LXC9610041788 . Ce quartier est né des programmes de grands ensembles mis en œuvre à partir des années 1950 afin de réduire la pénurie de logements. La mairie choisit donc de développer un quartier moderne 4 600 logements en HLM pour pouvoir loger plus de 30 000 habitants avec des loyers modérés dans des bâtiments modernes. Ce quartier avait comme emblème un des plus grands immeubles d’Europe surnommé la Muraille de Chine qui était visible depuis l’autoroute. Ce quartier s’est construit en quatre tranches : Beaulieu I (Beaulieu) de 1953 à 1955 ; Beaulieu II (La Marandinière) en 1959 ; Beaulieu III (Montchovet) en 1964 ; Beaulieu IV (La Palle) en 1971. Il est aujourd’hui en profonde mutation avec un programme de renouvellement urbain qui prévoit la démolition de plus 1000 logements et la reconstruction de 250. Bâtiments spécifiques : CHPL (Centre Hospitalier Privé de la Loire) qui remplace la Muraille de Chine ; Ecole Nationale d'ingénieurs de Saint-Etienne Un modèle de l'urbanisme des années 1950. Beaulieu-Montchovet: La ville choisit de construire un immense quartier neuf de plus de 4.600 logements, prévu pour loger 30.000 habitants, sur les basses pentes du Pilat, à la sortie sud-est de Saint-Etienne.Entre les forêts, qui seront classées parc naturel quelques années plus tard, et les quartiers chics du cours Fauriel, c'est un des endroits les mieux situés de la ville.C'est aussi le seul grand emplacement proche du centre où il n'y aie pas eu de mines, parce que les couches de charbon s'arrêtent juste avant : le terrain est assez solide pour supporter de gros immeubles. Içi le chantier de construction de MONTCHOVET soit Beaulieu 3, la continuitée des constructions HLM de nos quartiers sud-est (les chantiers de l'OPAC) , la vidéo içi :www.ina.fr/video/LXF99004401 .Retour sur son historique de 1962 à aujourd'hui e n 2018.Un grand-Ensemble qui rappelle combien la politique d'urbanisme des années 1960 et suivantes a été conduite en dépit du bon sens la video içi www.google.fr/search?q=montchovet+ina&oq=montchovet+i... et là www.ina.fr/video/CAC00029801 , mais aussi içi www.ina.fr/video/CAC00029801 - avec Claude BARTOLONE içi avec la Visite à Saint Etienne du ministre délégué à la ville le jour de la démolition de la muraille de Chine. Rencontre avec des associations pr discuter du futur du quartier Montchovet. www.ina.fr/video/LY00001263573 - fresques.ina.fr/rhone-alpes/fiche-media/Rhonal00046/demol... - et les differentes videos de la demolition la encore : La démolition de la "muraille de Chine" de Saint Etienne www.youtube.com/watch?v=aq1uOc6Gtd0, www.youtube.com/watch?v=YB3z_Z6DTdc terrible :( ^^ l interview de Michel Thiolliere Le Grisou.fr a interviewé Michel Thiollière, ancien maire de Saint-Etienne et sénateur de la Loire, membre du Parti radical et actuel vice-président de la Commission de régulation de l'énergie. Il livre son analyse sur les prochaines échéances politiques, notamment la campagne des municipales en cours à Saint-Etienne, les alliances de la droite et du centre, mais aussi le mandat de Maurice Vincent. Michel Thiollière s'attarde également sur les besoins de l'agglomération stéphanoise et évoque les enjeux énergétiques en France.(Interview : Maxime Petit -- Réalisation : Studios Bouquet) www.youtube.com/watch?v=AJAylpe8G48,"François Mitterrand, après la visite de deux quartiers -l'un à Saint Etienne et l'autre à Vénissieux, inscrits sur la liste de ceux à réhabiliter -, parle du plan de réhabilitation pour de meilleures conditions de logement.François Mitterrand / Georgina Dufoix / Gilbert Trigano / François Dubanchet / Marcel Houël Thèmes : Grands travaux et grands projetsLe Président > 1er septennat 1981-1988 > 1981-1986 ÉclairageDepuis la fin des années 1970, la région lyonnaise apparaît comme l'épicentre des violences urbaines qui se déroulent en France. Durant l'été 1981, des violences urbaines ont conduit le gouvernement à engager le plus tôt possible une nouvelle politique en faveur des quartiers dégradés. Malgré les premières opérations de réhabilitation engagées par la Commission nationale pour le développement social des quartiers, la situation demeure extrêmement tendue dans un certain nombres de quartiers populaires. L'assassinat d'un jeune de la Cité des 4 000 par un habitant en juillet 1983 a ravivé les débats autour du thème du "mal des grands ensembles" selon l'expression de l'époque. D'autre part, le contexte politique conduit également le pouvoir à s'intéresser encore davantage à la question de la dégradation urbaine dans la mesure où de très nombreux quartiers populaires n'ont pas cette fois-ci apporté leurs suffrages aux candidats de la gauche.La visite de François Mitterrand dans deux quartiers dégradés de la région lyonnaise constitue donc un signal fort à l'égard des populations qui y vivent. Ce déplacement fait également écho à celui réalisé quelques jours plus tôt au sein de la Cité des 4 000 à La Courneuve en Seine Saint Denis (voir Visite de François Mitterrand à La Courneuve). Le principe est d'ailleurs le même et il est exprimé par le président de la République : voir par lui-même l'état réel de ses quartiers. Le fait qu'il soit mentionné dans le reportage que "ces visites surprises" se soient faites dans la "plus grande discrétion" (notamment sans les élus locaux concernés) marque effectivement la volonté du président de la République d'établir une sorte de lien direct avec les habitants qui vivent dans ces quartiers. Il ne s'agit pas de faire l'annonce de nouvelles mesures mais "de voir les choses par moi-même" selon l'expression utilisée par François Mitterrand lors de son allocution à la Préfecture à Lyon. Au moment où la Commission nationale pour le développement social des quartiers établit la liste définitive des 22 quartiers qui bénéficieront d'un programme de réhabilitation, la visite du président de la République sur le terrain suggère une forme de "présidentialisation" du thème de la réhabilitation des grands ensembles.La création au même moment de Banlieue 89 suscitée par deux architectes proches de François Mitterrand, Roland Castro et Michel Cantal-Duparc, suggère également l'intérêt du président de la République pour les questions urbaines (voir Inauguration de l'exposition organisée par Banlieue 89)."http://fresques.ina.fr/mitterrand/fiche-media/Mitter00106/visite-de-francois-mitterrand-a-saint-etienne-et-aux-minguettes.html JournalisteVisites surprises qui se sont déroulées dans la plus grande discrétion, seule Madame Georgina Dufoix, Secrétaire d’Etat à la Famille et aux Immigrés, Monsieur Gilbert Trigano, le PDG du Club Méditerranée qui participe à la Commission Dubedout, et deux collaborateurs du Chef de l’État étaient présents. Ni à Saint-Étienne, ni à Vénissieux, les autorités locales n’y ont participés. Peu avant midi, le Président est arrivé à la Préfecture du Rhône à Lyon où s’est déroulée pendant 45 minutes une séance de travail avec les élus locaux et notamment Messieurs Dubanchet, Maire de Saint-Étienne et Houël, Maire de Vénissieux. Réunion qui a donné l’occasion d’aborder les problèmes de fond, devait souligner François Mitterrand.(Bruit)François MitterrandLes deux quartiers que je viens de visiter, celui de Montchovet à Saint-Étienne et celui de Monmousseau à l’intérieur des Minguettes sur la commune de Vénissieux, sont inscrits sur la liste des 22 quartiers à réhabiliter, retenus, proposés par la Commission Dubedout devenue la Commission Pesce, et retenus par le Gouvernement. Et je compte appliquer nos efforts pour qu’effectivement, ces quartiers soient réhabilités, c’est-à-dire, soient habitables. Qu’on y trouve, pour ceux qui y vivent, euh, suffisamment de convivialité, de capacité de développer une famille et, euh, revenant de son travail quand on en a, de pouvoir vivre avec les autres. Les conditions de logement, la construction de ces ensembles, les liaisons avec l’extérieur, l’école, le sport, les espaces verts, bref, l’espace tout court, contribuent, vous le comprenez bien à, au futur équilibre, ou contribueront au futur équilibre de ces quartiers. Alors, je préfère voir les choses par moi-même. Il faut bien se dire que à l’origine de nombreux désordres sociaux se trouvent ces fâcheuses, ces déplorables conditions de vie. Et moi, je veux lutter contre ces désordres et pour cela, il faut que je m’attaque avec le Gouvernement et ceux qui ont la charge auprès de moi, je veux absolument m’attaquer aux sources d’un malaise et d’un déséquilibre social qui sont d’une immense ampleur. Raison de plus pour commencer par un bout avec énergie et continuité. Et de ce point de vue, je compte bien, au cours des semaines et des mois à venir, persévérer dans cette enquête personnelle qui me permet ensuite de donner des instructions précises à ceux qui participent à la gestion de l’État., à Saint-Étienne comme dans les communes de sa proche banlieue. Une sorte de grand monument à la gloire des HLM, comme si on avait fait exprès de la faire aussi énorme pour montrer comme les gens étaient fiers de ce quartier. Autour on construit tout ce qu'il faut pour les habitants : une école, Montchovet, qui donne sur le grand pré derrière, une MJC, une piscine, un centre commercial, avec la Poste, plus tard le bureau de police. En 1978, comme les enfants des habitants grandissent, on ouvre un deuxième collège dans la ZUP. Il prendra le nom de Jean Dasté, qui a créé la Comédie de Saint-Etienne, le plus grand théatre de province en France, et son école de comédiens. Après 1984 les loyers des HLM ont augmenté, beaucoup d'habitants sont partis. La population de Saint-Etienne diminue surtout dans les quartiers sud : beaucoup de gens déménagent vers la plaine du Forez, moins froide, où il y a la place de batir des maisons. On a rénové beaucoup d'appartements anciens en ville : la crise du logement est finie. On ne sait même plus qu'elle a existé. Les ZUP ont vieilli et la plupart des gens préfèrent se loger dans des appartements récents. Alors on ferme : le collège de Beaulieu, l'école de la Marandinière, la Poste. La Muraille coute très cher à entretenir : il n'y a plus asssez d'habitants pour payer les frais. Les HLM ont décidé de la détruire: c'est le plus gros projet de démolition jamais réalisé en Europe. Les familles qui restaient ont du déménager. On va faire exploser la Muraille de Chine au printemps de l'an 2000. Peut être qu'il fallait le faire, mais pour les gens du quartier c'est un gros morceau de notre Histoire qu'on nous détruit.1954: les premiers travaux à Beaulieu : la campagne devient une ville à grands coups de bulldozer..Le projet est de construire en grande quantité des logements de bonne qualité, avec tout le confort, des chambres pour les enfants, l'eau, le chauffage central, des sanitaires, des arbres et des pelouses, et surtout .... des loyers accessibles pour tous. Ce seront les Habitations à Loyers Modérés, les HLM.Il faudra les construires en dehors des villes, pour en finir avec le mélange des industries et des logements, qui amène le bruit et la pollution. Y prévoir tous les équipements : commerces, écoles, collèges, lycées, transports, parcs, équipements sportifs, police, pompiers, Postes. Construire des villes entières où tout le monde aura accès à ce qui n'était encore que le luxe de quelques gens très riches.Cinq villes sont choisies pour être prioritaires : Paris ( Pantin ) et Lyon ( Bron-Parilly) à cause de leur taille, Angers et Rouen détruites dans les bombardements de 1944, Saint-Etienne, la ville la plus sinistrée de France pour le logement. C'est là que naissent les cinq premières Zone à Urbaniser en Priorité, les ZUP, modèles de l'urbanisme pour toute une génération. Elles ne s'appellent pas encore comme ça : on les construites avant que l'expression de ZUP existe, c'est de leur réussite que naitra le modèle repris partout pour lequel on inventera le mot plus tard.Beaulieu I: le projet d'urbanismeMaquette de 1953 - Projet des architectes Gouyon-ClémentUne architecture géométrique, de grands espaces, des arbres, des formes qui soulignent le relief.La ZUP de Beaulieu est construite en quatre tranches:- Beaulieu I ( Beaulieu ) de 1953 à 1955- Beaulieu II ( La Marandinière ) en 1959- Beaulieu III ( Montchovet ) en 1964, dont fait partie la Muraille de Chine, le grand immeuble le long du boulevard à gauche.- Beaulieu IV ( La Palle ) en 1971Le quartier:Au premier plan, en bas à droite Beaulieu, la Marandinière est à droite derrière l'autoroute, Montplaisir à gauche, Monchovet au milieu, le long du boulevard de la Palle.A gauche des tennis, les batiments du collège de Beaulieu. C'était l'autre collège de la ZEP, le seul collège "sensible" de France a avoir été fermé, en 1995.Nouvelles techniques, nouveaux matériaux :Construire vite pour un prix raisonnable oblige à inventer de nouvelles techniques, d'autant que l'on manque de travailleurs qualifiés.La construction s'industrialise: immeubles à structure porteuse ( des poteaux en béton armé tiennent les dalles, ce ne sont plus les murs qui soutiennent les immeubles ), murs rideaux ( les murs sont fait de morceaux préfabriqués accrochés aux dalles ), éléments standardisés ( les éléments: murs, tuyauterie, portes et fenêtres, sanitaires, etc... sont tous identiques, fabriqués en usine en grande série, installés de la même façon dans tous les immeubles ), nouveaux matériaux ( matières plastiques, béton armé, acier ) qui ne s'utilisaient pas dans la construction traditionnelle.Cela permet de diminuer les prix, en automatisant les fabrications, mais aussi parce qu'on peut utiliser des ouvriers beaucoup moins qualifiés, qui ne font que du montage et que l'on paye moins cher.Bien après les gens se plaindront de ces appartements tous identiques, de ces matériaux peu agréables, de la taille inhumaine des batiments.Mais à l'époque il faut compter deux à trois ans d'attente pour obtenir un appartement dans le quartier. Les familles sont si contentes de leur quartier tout neuf que les collègiens qui prennent le bus emportent une paire de bottes en plus de leur chaussures pour aller des immeubles à l'arrêt de bus : pas question de ramener de la boue dans les bus ou dans les escaliers.La crise du logement:1950 : la France connait la pire crise du logement de son Histoire. La crise économique de 1929 puis la guerre de 1939-1945 ont arrêté la construction de logements, déja insuffisante avant 1930, pendant plus de vingt ans.La France est au maximum du "baby-boom" ( période de très forte natalité qui commence à la fin de la guerre ) : les 40 millions de français de 1950 font deux fois plus de bébés que les 60 millions d'aujourd'hui. La très forte croissance économique relance l'immigration. Plus de la moitié des familles sont mal logées alors que la France commence la plus forte croissance démographique de son Histoire.La IV° République, héritière du programme de la Résistance donne la priorité aux besoins sociaux : école, santé, logement, sur la rentabilité financière. L'Etat, les villes, sont décidés à investir dans le logement, qui est déclaré prioritaire dans le Plan d'organisation de l'économie.Entre les années 50 et 60, et suite à la seconde guerre mondiale, la municipalité stéphanoise a vu sa population passée d’un peu moins de 180 000 habitants en 1950 à plus de 200 000 habitants dix ans plus tard en 1960. Cette forte augmentation de la population pouvait s’expliquer par le fort taux de natalité de cette époque (baby-boom), mais aussi par l’afflux de travailleurs de la classe ouvrière venus dans la grande cité stéphanoise pour trouver un travail. De ce fait, la construction d’un logement sain pour chaque ouvrier était devenue une priorité absolue pour les élus qui considéraient à raison que cela était une condition vitale dans le cadre de ce grand développement. Pour ce faire, la ville a lancé dans les années 50 une vaste opération de construction de barres d’habitation dans la zone de Beaulieu, destinée à fournir un logement à une population grandissante.Une barre d’habitation innovanteA l’époque, avec une majorité d’architectes, les appartements modernes construits possédaient des cloisons lourdes empêchant toute modification interne ainsi que des espaces de renvoi sombres et non ventilés ressemblant à des alcôves.Mais à l’inverse, pour certains architectes précurseurs de la région à l’image d’Yves et Henri Gouyon, la modernité reflétait le gout de la clarté, de l’air, et du soleil, avec de larges horizons. Ainsi, ces derniers donnaient la priorité non pas aux façades qu’ils considéraient comme de simples élévations du plan, mais aux cellules d’habitations et à leur orientation. Dans cette optique, le bâtiment proposé par Henri Gouyon, qui était donc un partisan de l’espace ouvert moderne, supprimait les circulations et profitait de ce gain de place pour aménager de nouveaux espaces de vie communes. De plus, dans ces cellules d’habitations, les architectes ont tirés profit au maximum de la double orientation des appartements (ces derniers étaient traversant) avec par exemple l’accolement de balcons.Conception et réalisation d’un quartier entierPour le projet de Beaulieu, l’on confia la conception ainsi que la réalisation des interventions aux agences Henri et Yves Gouyon puis Yves Gouyon et associés. Ainsi, dés le milieu des années 50, des études concernant Beaulieu II – La Marandinière furent conduites, suivis de la construction du bâtiment entre 1957 et 1959. S’en suivit Beaulieu III – Montchovet entre 1962 et 1964, surnommé la « Muraille de Chine », qui comprenait entre autres, une barre de type HLM haute de 10 à 17 mètres et longue de 270 mètres, avec 560 logements. Suites à ces constructions, l’urbanisation des vallées et collines du sud-est de Saint-Etienne continua jusque dans les années 70 avec les séries de la Métare I, II, et III. Au total, ce sont plus de 8 000 logements, pour l’essentiel de type HLM, qui ont été construits durant cette période.Ces constructions ont également contribué à la création du parc de l’Europe et d’un boulevard circulaire qui servait de jonction entre les différents édifices et le centre-ville de la cité stéphanoise.Un projet pharaoniqueLe centre commercial fut un projet d’une dimension sans précédent pour la ville, plus grand centre commercial intra-urbain de la région Loire-Auvergne, avec 100 magasins, 1500 places de stationnement, 90 000 m² de surface, et sur 3 niveaux (4 niveaux avec la terrasse). Le 2 octobre 1979, CENTRE DEUX ouvre ses portes pour la première fois, et constitue une renaissance et un véritable tournant pour la ville.L’avis de l’architecteDe toutes les constructions de cette époque, Beaulieu est un des ensembles construits qui se porte le mieux si l’on en croit les nombreuses enquêtes menées auprès de la population de ces logements, dont certains l’occupe pratiquement depuis le début. Les arbres atteignent désormais le haut des immeubles, et la rue Le Corbusier adjacente a pris les allures « d’une banlieue des années 30 » avec un niveau d’urbanisme parfaitement acceptable. En conclusion, on peut parler pour cette construction d’un véritable savoir faire architectural et en quelques sortes d’art urbain. Ce projet a été récompensé par un prix d’urbanisme, mettant en valeur le travail en amont du projet. St-Etienne Cimaise Architectes -Entretien avec François Tomas, géographe, spécialiste de l'aménagement urbain, et enseignant à l'université et à l'école d'architecture de Saint-Etienne. Il est notamment l'auteur des Grands Ensembles, une histoire qui continue (Publications de l'université de Saint-Etienne, 2003). Cet intellectuel a également mis la main à la pâte. Entre 1977 et 1983, il fut adjoint à l'urbanisme du maire communiste de l'époque, Joseph Sanguedolce. Engagé au PC de 1974 à 1985, il a, depuis, rejoint le Parti socialiste «comme militant de base»Quelle est l'ampleur des destructions provoquées par la Seconde Guerre mondiale à Saint-Etienne?La ville subit un important bombardement des Alliés le 26 mai 1944. Celui-ci vise les usines qu'utilisaient les Allemands dans la région pour leur effort de guerre et les noeuds de communication ferroviaire. Comme prévu, la gare de Châteaucreux, les usines de Marais et le tunnel de Tardy sont touchés. Mais les bombes, larguées trop rapidement, atteignent aussi les quartiers du Soleil et de Tardy - notamment les écoles - ainsi que l'église Saint-François, emplie de fidèles. Au total, le bilan est lourd: un millier de morts, 1 500 blessés, 22 000 sinistrés; 800 immeubles ont été plus ou moins détruits.Que prévoit-on pour la reconstruction?Pas grand-chose. A la différence de la refonte spectaculaire du Havre, par exemple, on se contente ici de bâtir de petits immeubles, plus modernes bien sûr, mais sans réelle innovation architecturale ou urbanistique.Est-il vrai que Saint-Etienne, après guerre, traîne une réputation de «capitale des taudis»?C'est exact, et celle-ci n'est pas usurpée. En 1946, 7% seulement des logements sont jugés «confortables», et 17%, «acceptables»; 56% sont médiocres, et 20% peuvent véritablement être qualifiés de taudis: 1 logement sur 5 n'a pas d'eau à l'évier, les deux tiers ne disposent pas de WC, et 95%, de salle d'eau. Mais le problème n'a pas été créé par la guerre. Depuis la fin du XIXe siècle, Saint-Etienne a beaucoup grandi, mais très peu construit. Résultat: la ville a vieilli sur elle-même et se trouve après guerre dans une situation désastreuse, que les bombardements ont simplement aggravée.C'est alors qu'Alexandre de Fraissinette, maire élu en 1947, fixe le logement comme l'une de ses priorités.Oui. Et ce ne sera pas un vain mot. Rendez-vous compte: on passe de 114 logements construits en 1948 à 531 en 1951, 1 085 en 1954, 1 694 en 1957 et même 2 932 en 1959! L'effort est gigantesque. Mais le changement est aussi qualitatif. A la fin des années 1940 et au début des années 1950, la France va connaître une rupture architecturale avec l'apparition des premiers grands ensembles. Saint-Etienne sera l'une des villes symboles de cette rupture.Comment cette nouvelle architecture est-elle accueillie?Très favorablement par les classes moyennes, beaucoup moins par les classes populaires.Cela paraît paradoxal, pour du logement social!Le paradoxe n'est qu'apparent. On l'a oublié aujourd'hui, mais les premiers grands ensembles sont réservés aux familles de moins de trois enfants ayant des revenus corrects, autrement dit aux classes moyennes. Alors que, depuis la guerre, celles-ci devaient se contenter d'une ou de deux pièces mal équipées, elles se voient soudain proposer des logements spacieux, avec de la verdure, de la lumière, une salle d'eau, des WC, le chauffage central. Cela leur paraît merveilleux! Les pauvres, eux, continuent de s'entasser dans de petits appartements sans confort, quand ce ne sont pas des taudis, en particulier à Tarentaize et à Beaubrun, ou des bidonvilles, du côté de Méons, près des puits de mine et des usines sidérurgiques. Ce n'est que plus tard, à partir des années 1970, que les grands ensembles seront prioritairement réservés aux pauvres et aux familles immigrées. Mais, dans les années 1950, les grands ensembles sont encore synonymes de progrès social. Et même au-delà. On est persuadé que ce nouvel habitat va entraîner le recul de la maladie, de la délinquance, voire de la mésentente entre les époux! Il existe ainsi une «commission du bonheur ou des grands ensembles»!On croit rêver...C'était l'ambiance de l'époque, avec ses utopies et ses excès. Pour les architectes, si l'un des repoussoirs est le taudis de centre-ville, l'autre est le petit pavillon de banlieue, symbole à leurs yeux de l'individualisme petit-bourgeois, avec ses gaspillages de terrain, son absence d'horizon et son coût pour la communauté...Quels sont les quartiers typiques de cette période, à Saint-Etienne?Le premier est constitué par le très bel ensemble de la place du Maréchal-Foch. Il s'agit d'une étape intermédiaire entre l'îlot traditionnel (des immeubles accolés, formant un pâté de maisons) et sa suppression totale. Du côté de la Grand-Rue, plusieurs immeubles constituent encore des semi-îlots. Mais, à l'ouest, deux immeubles sont déjà totalement indépendants: ils sont construits au milieu de la verdure. Et cela, c'est très nouveau. Jusqu'à présent, tous les immeubles érigés à Saint-Etienne, y compris les plus hauts, étaient accolés à d'autres édifices. Cela reste encore, cinquante ans plus tard, l'un des quartiers chics de Saint-Etienne.L'autre grande opération de l'époque, c'est Beaulieu I.Evidemment. On est, cette fois, face à un grand ensemble «pur». Le chantier commence en 1953 - il y a juste cinquante ans - et s'achève en 1955. Ce nouveau quartier de 1 264 logements est remarquablement conçu. Non seulement il respecte la topographie des lieux, mais aussi il joue avec elle: les bâtiments sont implantés soit parallèlement, soit perpendiculairement aux courbes de niveau, ce qui met en valeur la colline tout en préservant son sommet. Pour rompre l'anonymat, les entrées, les façades et les balcons sont individualisés. Les logements sont de qualité, et les espaces verts, confiés aux services de la ville, tout simplement magnifiques. Beaulieu produit d'ailleurs un effet prodigieux sur ses premiers habitants.Son implantation n'est pas non plus le fait du hasard...En effet. Compte tenu des préoccupations hygiénistes de l'époque, le conseil municipal a choisi ce site «loin des zones minières et industrielles, à l'abri des poussières et des fumées, au climat salubre». Il souligne qu'il ne sera «jamais exploité par les houillères, car son sous-sol est stérile» et qu'il est également «bien relié à Saint-Etienne par le cours Fauriel, la seule avenue large de la ville». C'est véritablement le contre-modèle du taudis. Il a d'ailleurs, lui également, remarquablement bien vieilli.Etes-vous aussi enthousiaste pour les projets qui ont suivi Beaulieu I?Hélas!... Beaulieu II-La Marandinière (1957-1959), Beaulieu III-Montchovet (1962-1964), avec la fameuse «muraille de Chine», Beaulieu IV-la Palle (1967-1970) et la Métare (1962-1974), représentant à eux tous quelque 6 000 logements, constituent - à l'exception de la Métare, qui ne comprend que des appartements en copropriété - des échecs complets. Et tragiques.Pourquoi cette différence?Beaulieu I a bénéficié d'une accumulation de partis pris judicieux qui n'ont pas été appliqués par la suite. Outre la qualité de son architecture et de ses espaces verts, on a évité le zonage bête et méchant, qui allait s'imposer plus tard: les zones commerciales, d'un côté; les tours et les barres d'habitation, d'un deuxième; les emplois, d'un troisième. Enfin, Beaulieu I, réservé presque exclusivement aux classes moyennes, n'a pas connu le processus de dégradation que l'on constatera ailleurs, et dont la destruction de la «muraille de Chine» constituera le symbole.Qui ont été les grands aménageurs de cette époque?Parmi les politiques: le maire, Alexandre de Fraissinette (modéré), et son premier adjoint, qui lui succédera à sa mort, le radical Michel Durafour. Parmi les architectes: Edouard Hur et Henri Gouyon, concepteurs de Beaulieu I. Et, bien sûr, l'Etat, qui reste très présent. C'est lui qui, de manière générale, garde la haute main sur l'urbanisme. Beaulieu constitue une opération nationale, décidée de Paris. Cependant, ce qui est remarquable, c'est que, pour Beaulieu I, l'Etat va accepter de composer.Dans quels domaines?Le ministère de la Reconstruction souhaitait, ici comme ailleurs, que l'opération fût entièrement industrialisée. Autrement dit, que l'on adaptât au bâtiment les méthodes de l'automobile. Les constructions devaient se faire en préfabriqué, et l'on devait se contenter de les monter sur place. Mais, à Saint-Etienne, les architectes, soutenus par le maire, s'opposent à cette directive. Parce qu'ils sont expérimentés, et reconnus, ils vont obtenir gain de cause. Et heureusement.Y a-t-il eu des projets, conçus à cette époque, qui n'ont pas vu le jour? A la fin des années 1950, l'Etat fait appel à de grands architectes pour remodeler les villes. A Saint-Etienne, c'est Dufau, distingué par le prix de Rome, qui est choisi. Il présente un projet radical: raser les 70 îlots qui se trouvent à l'est de la Grand-Rue, entre la place du Peuple et Bellevue, et les remplacer par autant de tours et de barres! Son projet, finalement, ne sera appliqué qu'en partie. Au sud, jusqu'à Bellevue, presque tout est démoli, beaucoup de tours et de barres sont construites. Au nord, les démolitions sont également presque systématiques, mais, cette fois, les nouveaux immeubles reproduisent la forme traditionnelle de l'îlot. On détruit également une partie du quartier derrière la grande poste, ainsi que l'ancienne caserne de Tréfilerie et la prison de Bizillon. Le futur Centre-Deux...C'est cela. Au départ, l'opération se nomme «prison-Tréfilerie», mais les promoteurs, qui ont le sens du commerce, préfèrent la rebaptiser. Ce quartier est conçu comme un centre d'affaires à l'américaine, type la Défense, à Paris, ou la Part-Dieu, à Lyon. On explique aux élus que, s'ils veulent que Saint-Etienne devienne une grande ville, ils doivent la doter d'un centre d'affaires, avec des immeubles atteignant 100 ou 150 mètres de hauteur, comme aux Etats-Unis! Le projet est lancé (en 1969), mais il sera peu à peu amendé, pour tenir compte de la réalité économique, de la montée des oppositions et de l'évolution des mentalités.Comment l'économie stéphanoise se porte-t-elle alors?La ville croit encore à l'avenir de la mine et des industries traditionnelles. Cela se comprend: le plan Monnet pour la relance de l'économie française s'appuie sur l'énergie, les transports, les industries lourdes... Bref, tous les points forts de Saint-Etienne, mais ce sera un cadeau empoisonné, car, bercée par cette illusion, la cité s'endort. Quand elle se décidera à moderniser ses structures industrielles, ce sera toujours avec quelques années de retard. Au fond, c'est dans les années 1950 que l'on commet les erreurs qui conduiront, plus tard, au démantèlement des industries locales.Le secteur tertiaire a-t-il déjà commencé son essor?Pas encore. Dans les années 1950, Saint-Etienne reste une ville très fortement industrielle. La tertiarisation, avec l'enseignement supérieur, la transformation de l'hôpital en centre hospitalier régional et universitaire et l'essor de Casino, avec les supermarchés et les hypermarchés, ne commencera véritablement que dans les années 1960.Culturellement, la ville est aussi très active...Elle est même, à ce moment-là, l'un des hauts lieux de la création culturelle en France, notamment dans les domaines théâtral et artistique. Maurice Allemand fait du musée de Saint-Etienne l'un des plus grands musées d'art moderne en France. Et Jean Dasté propose au public le théâtre moderne. Ce bouillonnement est dû, notamment, à Alexandre de Fraissinette. Comme, après lui, Michel Durafour, il est persuadé que l'avenir de la cité est dans la modernité. Il considère donc qu'elle doit être déclinée dans tous ses aspects: économique, urbanistique et culturel.La population comprend-elle cette volonté?Oui et non. Dans les années 1950, il existe un certain consensus, car tout le monde partage la vision d'un avenir meilleur. Mais, en réalité, Fraissinette, et surtout Durafour, sont très décalés. Dans leur obsession d'une ville «blanche», ils refusent en bloc le passé, dont on a heureusement découvert depuis lors les richesses. Ils rêvent d'une ville qui n'existe pas, peuplée d'habitants qui ne ressemblent pas aux Stéphanois réels... C'est d'ailleurs ce qui, plus tard, provoquera la chute de Michel Durafour.Le chantier de l'autoroute de Saint Etienne 01 nov. 1965, la video içi www.ina.fr/video/LXC9610041788 - ST-Etienne,Montchovet (Beaulieu III) "la Muraille de Chine" construction 1962-1964, architecte HUR/FARRAT/GOUYON.Rappelez vous...Aout 1983, François Mitterand, se déplace incognito à la Muraille de Chine à Saint-Etienne. Quelques mois plus tard, la grande réhabilitation de cette barre d’habitation sera lancée.& le 24 octobre 1987 : visite officielle à Saint-Etienne. Il retourne à La Muraille de Chine pour constater les travaux. Le même jour il se rendra à Saint-Chamond et Roanne.« En 1983, le président s’est rendu à Montchovet à l’improviste »François Mitterrand est venu une première à Montchovet en 1983 incognito. Pourquoi une telle démarche ?C’est l’architecte Roland Castro qui a convaincu le président d’aller dans des quartiers populaires. Son but était de lui montrer où vivaient les gens à cette époque et qu’il fallait entreprendre un programme de rénovation.François Mitterrand m’a appelé et m’a dit d’organiser trois ou quatre » descentes » sur le terrain mais le président ne voulait ni policiers, ni gendarmes. Il m’a simplement demandé d’avertir, par correction, le préfet une fois arrivé. C’était d’ailleurs le meilleur gage de sécurité car lorsque vous n’êtes pas attendu, il n’y a pas de risques. Nous sommes donc allés à Saint-Etienne à Montchovet, aux Minguettes à Lyon, dans le 93.. et, à chaque fois, à l’improviste> Quelle a été la réaction des habitants ?Ils étaient très étonnés de croiser le président de la République dans leur cage d’escaliers ! Partout, nous avons reçu un accueil très chaleureux.Nous étions quatre : le président, Roland Castro, un policier et moi-même. Je me souviens qu’aux Minguettes, le président a été invité par une famille pour boire le thé. Les habitants étaient très heureux que le président s’intéresse à eux.> Comment François Mitterrand a-t-il réagi en voyant la vie de ses quartiers ?Il était fasciné. Je n’irais pas jusqu’à dire que c’était, pour lui, une découverte mais il était un rural et le fait de se confronter à la vie de ces gens qui vivaient dans de grandes barres fut enrichissant.> Ces visites impromptues ont-elles été suivies d’effets ?Oui car la mission Banlieues 89 est née de ces visites de terrain. Ce fut d’ailleurs la naissance de la politique de la ville.> En 1987, cette fois, la visite fut officielle - Proposer de nouveaux logements dans une démarche environnementale forte. Dans la poursuite des opérations engagées depuis 2001 (démolition de la Muraille de Chine en 2000, implantation du CHPL, de l ’AIMV en 2005), une qualité résidentielle s'affirme progressivement au sein des quartiers Sud-Est, grâce à une nouvelle offre d'habitat variée (en forme comme en type de produits). Le dynamisme du quartier s'appuie sur l'accueil et le développement de services, d'activités économiques et d'équipements d'agglomération (centre nautique, Nouveau Théâtre de Beaulieu...) et de proximité (salles de sport, travaux dans les écoles). Les atouts paysagers du site sont pleinement exploités dans une démarche environnementale forte. L'aménagement des espaces libres et la requalification des axes structurants et de desserte renforcent les liaisons internes aux quartiers et les ouvrent sur l'ensemble de la ville. Beaulieu, un patrimoine de qualité, valorisé et adapté à ses occupants40 logement ont été adaptés au vieillissement de leur occupants (bacs à douche, volets électriques, aménagement des ascenseurs, …). L'amélioration des espaces extérieurs, résidentiels ou publics (rue K.Marx, square Renoir, allée Clémenceau) viendra rendre plus conviviaux ces lieux de vie partagés. Petite Marandinière : une cité jardin qui se rénove en gardant son caractère Sur la Petite Marandinière, 320 logements de Métropole Habitat ont été rénovés. Les bâtiments ont été transformés pour arriver à 32 logements, avec création de T3, T4, et T5 en tenant compte de la rénovation thermique et du confort des logements. 54 logements ont été construits, répartis en 6 bâtiments à l'architecture contemporaine et fonctionnelle (surfaces généreuses, double ou triple orientation, terrasse ou loggia). En parallèle, les espaces publics ont été réaménagés dans une démarche environnementale durable et innovante : résidentialisation et embellissement des espaces extérieurs, traitement paysager d'ensemble, requalification des voiries et des circulations douces adaptées aux usages, gestion optimisée du stationnement et des eaux pluviales...Une nouvelle mixité pour le quartier : les maisons de ville "Jardins Sembat" 22 maisons de ville (du T3 au T5) ont été construites à l’angle de la rue Marcel Sembat et du boulevard de Fraissinette. Conçu et développé par l'équipe XXL-Civita-Spirit, ce projet se caractérise par la qualité de la construction (matériaux durables, aménagement soigné des espaces extérieurs…) et par la mise en valeur paysagère du site, ouvert sur les collines du Pilat. 3 types de maisons ont été proposées en location libre : maisons jumelées le long du boulevard de Fraissinette, maisons en pente en fond de parcelle adossée au talus, maisons patio au cœur de l’îlot. Un nouveau centre nautique sur le secteur Loti Souhaité par les habitants, exemplaire d’une démarche participative de coproduction, le centre nautique Yves Naime a été ouvert à l'été 2013, en remplacement de l'ancienne piscine de la Marandinière. Ce centre nautique comprend un bassin sportif (25m, 6 lignes d'eau), un bassin destiné aux activités ludiques (bains bouillonnants, aquagym...), une pataugoire et des plages extérieures.Grande Marandinière : un secteur d'habitat en développement . Après la démolition de la barre Sisley et celle en cours de la barre Féguide, c'est un nouveau quartier qui se dessine sur ce secteur. La reconfiguration de la rue Sisley en voie de promenade avec des vues en belvédère et l'aménagement d'une « coulée verte » ont profondément modifié le paysage urbain du secteur. Ce nouvel environnement a permis à Métropole Habitat de réaliser un programme immobilier de 27 logements locatifs. Dans ce bâtiment collectif moderne et fonctionnel, chaque logement comporte un espace extérieur privatif, balcon ou terrasse. Au rez-de-chaussée, des locaux d'activités (centre social espace-loisirs) ou de services sont déployés le long de la nouvelle rue Sisley. La Palle : des résidentialisations de qualitéLa résidentialisation des immeubles du boulevard de la Palle apporte aux habitants de nouvelles terrasses privatives en rez-de-chaussée, des espaces en cœur d’îlots plus agréables, et de nouveaux parcours piétonniers avec aires de jeux. Elle s’accompagne de la réhabilitation des immeubles (réfection des façades, changement des garde-corps…). Des opérations de résidentialisation ont été menées immeuble par immeuble de 2006 à 2009. Elles permettent de définir les limites entre les parties publiques ouvertes à tous, et les parties privées. Des petits jardins privatifs sont ainsi aménagés pour chaque logement de rez-de-chaussée.Le Pont Aven : du logement social à haute performance environnementaleDéveloppé par Métropole Habitat, le Pont-Aven est un exemple en matière de construction écologique. Il accueille 20 logements sociaux du T2 au T5. L’ensemble de la conception du bâtiment intègre des critères environnementaux : parois extérieures en brique mono-mur, eau chaude solaire, chauffage collectif au gaz naturel, ventilation intérieure à double flux pour une meilleure circulation de l’air, équipements électriques et sanitaires économes en énergie. La toiture végétalisée permet quant à elle une meilleure conservation de la fraîcheur en été, les auvents du toit protègent les fenêtres du soleil et les eaux de pluie seront récupérées pour arroser les espaces extérieurs…Résultat : une diminution des rejets en CO2 et une baisse significative des charges de chauffage pour les locataires.Favoriser l'accessibilité et les relations inter-quartiers Le réaménagement du boulevard de la Palle a favorisé une meilleure desserte du quartier en transports en commun. Une station de taxis, des pistes cyclables et des pelouses ont été aménagées le long du boulevard, sécurisant ainsi la traversée piétonne entre les terrasses Roinat et le centre hospitalier. A l'intérieur du quartier, la trame piétonnière a été développée dans le principe d'une continuité paysagère entre les différents secteurs. Initiée avec l’aménagement des terrasses Roinat, une coulée verte, nouveau poumon vert du quartier, facilitant la circulation des piétons et des cyclistes, relie désormais le boulevard de la Palle, et plus loin le bois d'Avaize, au Parc de l'Europe. - Après la seconde guerre mondiale, un immense chantier s'ouvre en France dans le but de loger massivement une population démunie, les réalisations des HLM en France et la lutte contre l'habitat indigne insalubre , le film parle de St-Etienne entre autre avec les Cités du soleil 1958 de Jean-Claude Sée : www.dailymotion.com/video/xgj74q .Jusqu'au milieu des années 1970, cette période dite des « Trente Glorieuses l'après guerre et montre la plupart des grandes réalisations de 1945 à 1960. A travers les exemples de la région parisienne et de quelques grandes villes françaises sont posé les problèmes de la diversité architecturale, de l'esthétique et de l'harmonie entre le passé et l'avenir. Les images montrent les grands ensembles de Beaulieu, la Marandiniére, à Saint-Etienne, la cité le Haut du Lièvre à Nancy, des cités à Sarcelles, Asnières, Bron-Parilly, Epinay, Pantin, Bobigny, la cité radieuse de Le Corbusier à Marseille, le front de mer à Royan, la video de l'Année 1962, une réalisation de Philippe Brunet içi www.dailymotion.com/video/xgj2zz » fut le terrain de nombreuses expérimentations architecturales et urbanistiques, fondées notamment sur les idées émises plus tôt dans le siècle par le Mouvement moderne.Aujourd'hui, ces ensembles bâtis sont au cœur d'une autre actualité, liée à leur adaptation à l'évolution des modes de vie de notre société contemporaine. Cette question qui se posa dès la fin des années 1970 apparaît sous un jour nouveau, avec les premières démolitions dans les années 1980 et, plus récemment, le vaste programme de réhabilitation mis en place dans le cadre de la loi Solidarité et Renouvellement Urbain.Après Les Grands Ensembles. Une histoire qui continue…, ce nouvel ouvrage, fruit de la collaboration entre l'École Nationale Supérieure d'Architecture de Saint-Étienne et l'Université Jean Monnet, apporte un éclairage nouveau sur cet héritage bâti, mettant au jour simultanément la question de son vécu et celle des acteurs engagés dans son édification. En réunissant quinze auteurs spécialistes de ce domaine, il s'agit de regrouper autant de points de vue, pour comprendre la diversité et la complexité des enjeux liés à la postérité de ce bâti. - « Petite enquête sur Beaulieu – Le Rond-Point », La Tribune du centre et du sud-est, 13 octobre 1955 et « Le chantier de Beaulieu – Le Rond-Point (1ère tranche) sera terminé le 30 juin 1956 très exactement »,La Tribune du centre & du sud-est, 26 juin 1956 -«St-Etienne, la place des grands ensembles dans l’histoire de l’habitat social français »Saint-Étienne/Beaulieu, au sud-est de l’agglomération, sur le versant sud de la colline de Beaulieu, en forte pente et d’aspect semi-rural, la cité de Beaulieu est mise à l’étude dès 1950. Elle débute en 1953 et comprend 1 221 logements, un groupe scolaire et 35 boutiques. Des parrains prestigieux et l’élite de l’architecture sté- phanoise sont mobilisés pour ce premier grand ensemble local.Tantôt les bâtiments suivent le dessin de la courbe de niveau 600, devenue rue Le Corbusier, tantôt ils s’installent perpendi-culairement à la pente, reliés à la rue par des passerelles ou de grands escaliers. A l’implantation exemplaire des bâtiments répond une maîtrise raffinée du végétal d’accompagnement, décliné selon les modes habituels aux squares urbains, avec une virtuosité étonnante dus aux talents de l’ingénieur des Services techniques de la ville, Jean Marc, associé à l’équipe de concep-tion dès l’origine de l’opération.Le vocabulaire de l’art des jardins s’adapte au grand ensemble : les espaces sont découpés à partir des courbes de niveau et des allées, et caractérisés par un système de haies et de contre-haies (haies étagées doubles ou triples) constituées de troènes com-muns ou dorés, prunus, berbéris et buffets de laurier, et sont plantés d arbres rythmés et colorés (érables négundo et acacias), ou parfois fastigiés (la gamme d’arbres est d’ailleurs peu riche), selon un dessin géométrique et des alternances de couleurs. Ces espaces verts ne sont réalisés qu’à partir de 1964, après avoir été longtemps laissés en prairies fauchées. Cet état de fait, dû au départ à l’étirement des financements des projets d’espaces exté-rieurs, s’inscrivait aussi dans la logique de conception de notre ingénieur, qui pensait « qu’il était nécessaire de laisser vivre un groupe d’habitations avant de planter » – afin de reprendre notamment les chemins tracés par l’usage.Cette réalisation révèle le décalage entre les réflexions et les savoir-faire architecturaux et paysagers et exprime quelques traits caractéristiques de la pratique paysagiste. Le festonnage des haies qui jalonne les espaces extérieurs rejoint celui des collines boca- gères surplombant les bâtiments. Il rappelle le site environnant et inspirera plus tard l’AUA et Alexandre Chemetoff pour la réhabilitation du quartier de Montreynaud.Relevons que, sans l’action concertée des services de la ville et de l’office d’HLM, qui finança entièrement la réalisation des espaces verts, rien n’aurait été fait à cette époque, compte tenu du désintérêt pour cet aspect du projet des principaux responsables du chantier. « D’ailleurs, à cette époque, les architectes ne jouaient pas au paysagiste… », queleques superbes videos du Ministere de la Cohésion et des Territoires içi : .Naissance d'une banlieue mort d'un village 2000 www.dailymotion.com/video/x1a98izRéalisateur : Sidney Jézéquel Production : Les Films Roger Leenhardt Sujet : la commune de Goussainville (95) --------Quatre murs et un toit 1953 www.dailymotion.com/video/xk6xui Scenario et réalisation Pierre Jallaud MRU (ministère de la reconstruction et de l'urbanisme) ----------------Le Bonheur est dans le béton www.dailymotion.com/video/x413amo - 2015 Documentaire réalisé par Lorenz Findeisen produit par Les Films du Tambour de Soie ---------------------Beaulieu par son constructeur la Cimaise :" Entre les années 50 et 60, et suite à la seconde guerre mondiale, la municipalité stéphanoise a vu sa population passée d’un peu moins de 180 000 habitants en 1950 à plus de 200 000 habitants dix ans plus tard en 1960. Cette forte augmentation de la population pouvait s’expliquer par le fort taux de natalité de cette époque (baby-boom), mais aussi par l’afflux de travailleurs de la classe ouvrière venus dans la grande cité stéphanoise pour trouver un travail. De ce fait, la construction d’un logement sain pour chaque ouvrier était devenue une priorité absolue pour les élus qui considéraient à raison que cela était une condition vitale dans le cadre de ce grand développement. Pour ce faire, la ville a lancé dans les années 50 une vaste opération de construction de barres d’habitation dans la zone de Beaulieu, destinée à fournir un logement à une population grandissante.--- Bâtir mieux plus vite et moins cher 1975 l'industrialisation du bâtiment et ses innovations : la préfabrication en usine, le coffrage glissant... www.dailymotion.com/video/xyjudq ----SAINT-ETIENNE BEAULIEU une barre d’habitation innovanteA l’époque, avec une majorité d’architectes, les appartements modernes construits possédaient des cloisons lourdes empêchant toute modification interne ainsi que des espaces de renvoi sombres et non ventilés ressemblant à des alcôves.Mais à l’inverse, pour certains architectes précurseurs de la région à l’image d’Yves et Henri Gouyon, la modernité reflétait le gout de la clarté, de l’air, et du soleil, avec de larges horizons. Ainsi, ces derniers donnaient la priorité non pas aux façades qu’ils considéraient comme de simples élévations du plan, mais aux cellules d’habitations et à leur orientation. Dans cette optique, le bâtiment proposé par Henri Gouyon, qui était donc un partisan de l’espace ouvert moderne, supprimait les circulations et profitait de ce gain de place pour aménager de nouveaux espaces de vie communes. De plus, dans ces cellules d’habitations, les architectes ont tirés profit au maximum de la double orientation des appartements (ces derniers étaient traversant) avec par exemple l’accolement de balcons. Conception et réalisation d’un quartier entier. Pour le projet de Beaulieu, l’on confia la conception ainsi que la réalisation des interventions aux agences Henri et Yves Gouyon puis Yves Gouyon et associés. Ainsi, dés le milieu des années 50, des études concernant Beaulieu II – La Marandinière furent conduites, suivis de la construction du bâtiment entre 1957 et 1959. S’en suivit Beaulieu III – Montchovet entre 1962 et 1964, surnommé la « Muraille de Chine la plus grande barre d'Europe avec 540 appartements à sa livraison mi 1964, les chantiers de l'OPAC devenu Métropole-Habitat, www.ina.fr/video/LY00001263522 », qui comprenait entre autres, une barre de type HLM haute de 10 à 17 mètres et longue de 270 mètres, avec 560 logements. Suites à ces constructions, l’urbanisation des vallées et collines du sud-est de Saint-Etienne continua jusque dans les années 70 avec les séries de la Métare I, II, et III. Au total, ce sont plus de 8 000 logements, pour l’essentiel de type HLM, qui ont été construits durant cette période. Ces constructions ont également contribué à la création du parc de l’Europe et d’un boulevard circulaire qui servait de jonction entre les différents édifices et le centre-ville de la cité stéphanoise.Un projet pharaoniqueLe centre commercial fut un projet d’une dimension sans précédent pour la ville, plus grand centre commercial intra-urbain de la région Loire-Auvergne, avec 100 magasins, 1500 places de stationnement, 90 000 m² de surface, et sur 3 niveaux (4 niveaux avec la terrasse). Le 2 octobre 1979, CENTRE DEUX ouvre ses portes pour la première fois, et constitue une renaissance et un véritable tournant pour la ville. L’avis de l’architecteDe toutes les constructions de cette époque, Beaulieu est un des ensembles construits qui se porte le mieux si l’on en croit les nombreuses enquêtes menées auprès de la population de ces logements, dont certains l’occupe pratiquement depuis le début. Les arbres atteignent désormais le haut des immeubles, et la rue Le Corbusier adjacente a pris les allures « d’une banlieue des années 30 » avec un niveau d’urbanisme parfaitement acceptable. En conclusion, on peut parler pour cette construction d’un véritable savoir faire architectural et en quelques sortes d’art urbain. Ce projet a été récompensé par un prix d’urbanisme, mettant en valeur le travail en amont du projet. www.cimaise-architectes.com/realisations/divers/construct... cité HLM labellisée Patrimoine du XXeme siecle -"Il faut bien le dire, avant même d’être livré, Beaulieu est l' un des grands-ensembles, parmis 6 autres qui fasçinait en 1954..En effet c'etait le début de la longue & grande histoire des chantiers de l'Office Public de l'Aménagement et de la Construction* içi, ou à Montreynaud, Solaure, Monthieu etc( l'OPAC l'office public de logements sociaux, devenu plus tard Métropole-Habitat, est la plus importante au niveau National, c'est la plus grosse boite d'HLM). Bref, les habituels promeneurs du coin genre les "Bois du Four (la Metare, le nom ançien, qui par ailleurs appartenait a Mme de Métarie une veuve riche qui légua son domaine soit "la Métare" à la ville, pour un Franc symbolique à l'epoque et aux CHU anciennement les HCL Hospiçes Civils de la Ville comme à Lyon... (on notera qu il y a des tas de logements en centre ville propriété du CHU)..se rendant le dimanchedans le Pilat ou à Rochetaillée et sur les collines* alentours (on en a 7 comme a Rome) font un léger détour par le chantier. Ils constatent alors de visu cet avancement des travaux que la presse qualifie de « belle prouesse ». Le rythme est en effet rapide : « un étage par semaine » pour certaines barres, comme le raconte un témoin. Les « grandes maisons », soient les immeubles de hauteur et nombre de logements importants (IGH), étant alors encore rares dans laville, les Stéphanois n’y sont pas habitués@ les H.L.M. Beaulieu est la 1ere cité Stéphanoise de toutes,. Les barres de dix-sept et quatorze niveaux gises respectivement rues Gomy Herriot et de Vlaminck, ainsi que la tour de 22 niveaux au 33 rue Le-Corbusier,surprennent donc encore pire pour la plus grande barre d'Europe qui arrvera 7 ans plus tard, la Muraille qui mettront certains certaines à la renverse , le gigantisme à l'état brut, du lourd.... La référence qui vient à l’esprit de beaucoup ajoute à la fascination : l’Amérique. « C’est New-York ! c'est tres joile, tres vert... », se rappelle avoir pensé un habitant de la première harre...Mais plus que les immeubles, ce sont surtout les logements qui emportent l’adhésion des « heureux locataires », comme aime à les appeler la presse tout court. La satisfaction procurée aux habitants par l’hygiène et le confort des logements des Grands-Ensembles soit les quartiers NEUF est une information connue, les études de sciences humaines sur le sujet abondent. Aussi, pour le cas de Beaulieu devenu un cas d'Ecole idem pour Montchovet (Beaulieu3) et les transformations de la Marandiniere (Beaulieu2)...Les entretiens réalisés avec des locataires n’apportent pas sur ce point-ci d’éléments nouveaux :les premiers motifs de satisfaction invoqués sont, comme pour bien d’autres Grands-Ensembles Français,l’eau courante, le chauffage central dont sont pourvus les immeubles les plus hauts, les WC intérieurs et salles de bain, l’ensoleillement et la luminosité permis par l’orientation, la hauteur et la disposition des immeubles, les placards et les tout aussi pratiques balcons à parois séchoirs permettant de faire sécher le linge, hiver compris. Entretien avec François Tomas, géographe, spécialiste de l'aménagement urbain, et enseignant à l'université et à l'école d'architecture de Saint-Etienne. Il est notamment l'auteur des Grands Ensembles, une histoire qui continue (Publications de l'université de Saint-Etienne, 2003). Cet intellectuel a également mis la main à la pâte. Entre 1977 et 1983, il fut adjoint à l'urbanisme du maire communiste de l'époque, Joseph Sanguedolce. Engagé au PC de 1974 à 1985, il a, depuis, rejoint le Parti socialiste «comme militant de base»L"apres guerre...Que prévoit-on pour la reconstruction? Pas grand-chose. A la différence de la refonte spectaculaire du Havre, par exemple, on se contente ici de bâtir de petits immeubles, plus modernes bien sûr, mais sans réelle innovation architecturale ou urbanistique.Est-il vrai que Saint-Etienne, après guerre, traîne une réputation de «capitale des taudis»?C'est exact, et celle-ci n'est pas usurpée. En 1946, 7% seulement des logements sont jugés «confortables», et 17%, «acceptables»; 56% sont médiocres, et 20% peuvent véritablement être qualifiés de taudis: 1 logement sur 5 n'a pas d'eau à l'évier, les deux tiers ne disposent pas de WC, et 95%, de salle d'eau. Mais le problème n'a pas été créé par la guerre. Depuis la fin du XIXe siècle, Saint-Etienne a beaucoup grandi, mais très peu construit.

Kapulani Landgraf, born O'ahu, HI 1966

 

Nā Hono a Pi‘ikea, from the series Ponoiwi, 2011, hand-etched silver gelatin print, 23 7⁄8 × 28 3⁄8 × 2 1⁄2 in.

 

Kapulani Landgraf is a Kanaka 'Oiwi (Native Hawaiian) artist whose work focuses on the impact of colonization and land development in Hawai'i. To create this series, she researched and photographed sacred Hawaiian sites that have been disturbed by sand mining. Each image documents a specific place where such an incident has occurred.

 

Landgraf uses a motorized tool to carve into the surface of her photographic prints, echoing the violence done to the land. The wavy lines in Kapukaulua, for example, reference the roads built with sand extracted from ancestral burial sites in Maui. In Pu'u Nene, the artist traces the outline of a now flattened site with the simple statement, "the heiau [sacred place] of Papa Nene, was located at the base of Pu'u Nene." The dispassionate tone belies the protest and mourning at the heart of Landgraf's project.____________________________________

 

"Women, queer artists, and artists of color have finally become the protagonists of recent American art history rather than its supporting characters. This is the lesson to be learned from the programming at New York’s Whitney Museum of American Art since it reopened in 2015, and it is now the big takeaway in the nation’s capital, at the Smithsonian American Art Museum, whose contemporary art galleries have reopened after a two-year closure.

 

During that time, architect Annabelle Selldorf refurbished these galleries, which have the challenge of pushing art history’s limits without going too far. Her interventions in these spaces are fairly inoffensive. Mainly, she’s pared down some of the structural clutter, removing some walls that once broke up a long, marble-floored hallway. To the naked eye, the galleries are only slightly different.

 

What is contained within, however, has shifted more noticeably—and is likely to influence other museums endeavoring to diversify their galleries. For one thing, I have never encountered a permanent collection hang with more Latinx and Native American artists, who, until very recently, were severely under-represented in US museums. That unto itself is notable.

 

It is a joy to see, presiding over one tall gallery, three gigantic beaded tunics courtesy of Jeffrey Gibson, a Choctaw artist who will represent the US at the next Venice Biennale. Printed with bombastic patterning and hung on tipi poles, they hang over viewers’ heads and allude to the Ghost Shirts used by members of the Sioux to reach ancestral spirits. One says on it “WITHOUT YOU I’M NOTHING.” That statement can also be seen as a confession on behalf of SAAM’s curators to the artists now included in this rehang: a multiplicity of perspectives is more nourishing than having just one.

 

Something similar can be seen in Judith F. Baca’s Las Tres Marías (1976). The installation features a drawing of a shy-looking chola on one side and an image of Baca as a tough-as-nails Pachuca on the other. These are both Chicana personae—the former from the ’70s, the latter from the ’40s—and the third component, a long looking glass, sutures the viewer into the piece. It’s no surprise this piece is shaped like a folding mirror, an item used to examine how one may present to the outside world. Baca suggests that a single reflection isn’t enough. To truly understand one’s self, many are needed.

 

It is hardly as though the Smithsonian American Art Museum’s collection ever lacked diversity. Nam June Paik’s Electronic Superhighway: Continental U.S., Alaska, Hawaii (2002), a video installation featuring a map of the country with each state’s borders containing TV monitors, is a crown jewel of the collection. It has returned once more, where it now faces a 2020 Tiffany Chung piece showing a United States strung with thread. So, too, has Alma Thomas’s magnum opus, Red Azaleas Singing and Dancing Rock and Roll Music (1976), a three-part stunner showing an array of petal-like red swatches drifting across white space.

 

But the usual heroes of 20th century art history are notably absent. Partly, that is because the Smithsonian American Art Museum doesn’t own notable works by canonical figures like Andy Warhol, Jasper Johns, and Robert Rauschenberg. (For those artists, you’d have to head to the National Gallery of Art.) Yet it is also partly because the curators want to destabilize the accepted lineage of postwar American art, shaking things up a bit and seeing where they land.

 

There is, of course, the expected Abstract Expressionism gallery, and while works by Willem de Kooning and Clyfford Still are present, those two are made to share space with artists whose contributions are still being properly accounted for. The standouts here are a prismatic painting by Ojibwe artist George Morrison and a piquant hanging orb, formed from knotted steel wire, by Claire Falkenstein.

 

This being the nation’s capital, there is also an entire space devoted to the Washington Color School. Come for Morris Louis’s 20-foot-long Beta Upsilon (1960), on view for the first time in 30 years, now minus the pencil marks left on its vast white center by a troublemaking visitor a long time ago. Stay for Mary Pinchot Meyer’s Half Light (1964), a painting that features a circle divided into colored quadrants, one of which has two mysterious dots near one edge.

 

From there, the sense of chronology begins to blur. The Baca piece appears in a gallery that loosely takes stock of feminist art of the 1970s; a clear picture of the movement’s aims fails to emerge because the various artists’ goals appear so disparate. It’s followed by an even vaguer gallery whose stated focus is “Multiculturalism and Art” during the ’70s and ’80s. Beyond the fact that all five artists included are not white, the gallery doesn’t have much of a binding thesis.

 

This partial view of recent art history leads to gaps, which is both a good thing and a bad thing. It’s a good thing because it offers due recognition for art-historical nonpareils. Audrey Flack is represented by Queen (1976), a Photorealist painting showing a view of a sliced orange, a rose, photographs, a playing card, and trinkets blown up to a towering size. It’s both gaudy and glorious. Hats off to the curators for letting it shine.

 

Then there are two totem-like sculptures by the late Truman Lowe, a member of the Ho-Chunk Nation, that are allowed to command a tall space of their own. They feature sticks of peeled willow that zigzag through boxy lumber structures, and they refuse to enjoin themselves to any artistic trend. Later on, there are three deliciously odd paintings by Howard Finster, of Talking Heads album cover fame. One shows Jesus descended to a mountain range strewn with people and cars who scale the peaks. Try cramming that into the confines of an accepted art movement.

 

That’s just three lesser-knowns who make an impact—there are many others on hand, from Ching Ho Cheng to Ken Ohara. And yet, herein lies this hang’s big problem: its gaping omissions in between them all, which are likely to be visible not just to the literati of the art world but to the general public, too.

 

Despite the focus of these new galleries being the 1940s to now, Pop, Minimalism, Conceptualism, and their resultant offshoots are skipped over entirely as the curators rush through the postwar era in order to get closer to the present. The Paik installation aside, there is almost no video art in this hang (although there is a newly formed space for moving-image work where a Carrie Mae Weems installation can be found), and no digital art or performance documentation at all, which is a shame, given that the museum owns important works by the likes of Cory Arcangel and Ana Mendieta, respectively. The AIDS crisis of the 1980s and ’90s and its devastating impact on the art world isn’t mentioned a single time in the wall text for these new galleries, and queer art more broadly is a blind spot.

 

Protest art periodically makes the cut, but any invocation of racism, misogyny, colonialism, and the like is typically abstracted or aestheticized. That all makes a work like Frank Romero’s Death of Rubén Salazar (1986) stand out. The painting depicts the 1970 killing of a Los Angeles Times reporter in a café during an unrelated incident amid a Chicano-led protest against the high number of Latino deaths in the Vietnam War. With its vibrant explosions of tear gas (Salazar was killed when a tear gas canister shot by the LA Sheriff Department struck his head) and its intense brushwork, it is as direct as can be—a history painting for our times. So, too, in a much different way, is Consuelo Jimenez Underwood’s Run, Jane, Run! (2004), a piece that ports over the “Immigrant Crossing” sign, first installed near the US-Mexico border in Southern California in the 1990s, and remakes it as a yellow tapestry that is threaded with barbed wire.

 

In general, this presentation could use more art like Romero and Jimenez Underwood’s. Yet the curators at least cop to the fact they’re seeking to hold handsome craftmanship and ugly historical events in tension, and the methods on display are productive in that regard.

 

By way of example, there’s Firelei Báez 2022 painting Untitled (Première Carte Pour L’Introduction A L’Histoire De Monde), which features a spray of red-orange paint blooming across a page from an 18th-century atlas documenting Europe’s colonies. One could say Báez’s blast of color recalls the bloodshed of manifest destiny, but that seems like an unfair interpretation for a work that provides so much visual pleasure. Rather than re-presenting the violence of a bygone era, Báez beautifies it. The result allows history to begin anew—on Báez’s own terms."

 

www.artnews.com/art-news/reviews/smithsonian-american-art...

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The No Limits Bike Racing Championship made its formal Return to the World Famous Brands Hatch Grand Prix Circuit for a Very Special 8 Hour Endurance Race.

 

Each and Every Team Had a selection of High Powered Racing Machinery that would along with the Rider take on the Might of Brands Hatches' Grand Prix Circuit for a Gruelling 8 Hours Straight.

 

While Some Teams had as many as Four Riders to make the job a Little Bit Easier other Teams Had decided to go with just Two Riders for 4 Hours Each knowing they Had the Skills and Determination to Keep Racing Hard.

 

The Championship was in is Last Race of the Season here at Brands and Whoever Won this Final Event would take the No Limits Bike Racing Championship Crown.

 

Qualifying was up First and setting the Pace at the Top of the Timings was (Andelle Leathers / RatMally Graphic) on their Kawasaki 998/Kawasaki 1000 Racing Bikes with an Incredible Time of 1.31.846 and a Top Speed of 95.37 to take Pole at The Start of the Race.

 

In Second Place was (Delkevic Racing) Kawasaki 1000/BMW 1000/Kawasaki 1000 Yamaha 1000 Racing Bikes with a Lap Time of 1.31.784 and a Top Speed of 95.34mph.

 

In Third Place was (Earnshaw's Motorcycles) BMW 1000/BMW 1000 Racing Bikes with A Lap Time of 1.32.099 and an Top Speed of 95.11mph.

 

With Qualifying Over and a 11:46am Start Fast Approaching all of the Riders to head out for the First 2 Hours. Just like Old School Le Mans the Riders all Lined Up on the Opposite Side of the Pitlane with their Respective Teams Holding onto the Bikes Ready for them to Blast off into the Distance around the Circuit.

 

A Loud Bang from the Calcian Signalled the Start of an 8 Hour Endurance Race and each Rider Ran Towards their Bikes Fired them Up and Set off onto the Race Track.

 

During the First Hour All Riders Made it through the First Opening Laps without any Problems and already many of them were getting up to Speed while some other Riders Preferred to nurse their Machinery for the First Hour to Avoid anything Breaking or Failing on thease High Powered Machines.

 

As Hour two Approached Everyone was still going strong and The Riders were Each Getting into a Really Good Rhythm of the Grand Prix circuit while other Teams had opted to Head to the pits to swap Riders and Give themselves more of a chance to take Victory with a selection of different Talents and Bikes available.

 

The Start of Hour Three saw a lot of Different Battles Going on thought the field and on the Back Straight there was some Close Wheel to Wheel Action Between Every Rider traveling at Speeds close to Nearly 100mph. Some Riders were Pushing so Hard that Even their Front Wheels Rose into the Air Making for some Epic and Thrilling Moments. An Overtake by Rider Number 97 on 36 was the Highlight so Far.

 

Hour Four and Still Each Rider was not Giving Up on the Chance of Victory with Half of the Endurance Race Completed by Now it was Time for Another Rider Change and with Many Teams Heading for the Pits Once Again Each New Rider Ventured Out onto the Brands Hatch GP Circuit it Beautiful Sunlit Conditions Although thease Must Have Been Playing Havoc with the Visibility for the Riders. Non the Less After Just One Retirement Earlier Due to an Engine Fire and a Marshall that should Have Really Been More Prepared. the Remaining Riders Soldered on.

 

The Fifth Hour was now Upon them and after a Very Hectic and Fast set of Laps Earlier Many Riders were setting down into their Positions to make sure the Bike they were on would Survive to the End. Druids was a Place to witness some Incredible Overtakes During this Time with the Light Levels Lowering and The Riders Really Looking like they were Pushing Hard and Encouraging their Machines to solder onto Victory.

 

Hour Six and with the Light Levels Now Falling even Lower it looked like this Endurance Race would be Ending in Nearly Dark Conditions as the Rider Kept on Going. The Few Retirement's Earlier on during Hour 2 and 3 were now just a Memory in the Surviving Riders Minds who all had One Goal in Mind. Get This Bike to the End of The Race.

 

Hour Seven and by now the Light was Nearly all But Gone with the Last Rays of Sunshine Disappearing Entirely from the Tops of Druids and yet Despite this now disadvantage i terms of Having a lot less light The Riders Still Continued to Push Hard and Fight their was To Victory in the Closing Stages as the Race Reached its Climax.

 

The Final Hour was Finally here and Every Rider who Had Been Concentrating Hard all Day was Now in a Position to Push Hard for that Final Hour of Glory that would mean the Difference Between either a Race Victory or a Race Loss. As The Minuets Slowly Ticked Down and The Last Light of Day Had been Long Extinguished from the Circuit. it was the Team of (Delkevic Racing's Liam Marchant / Gary Johnson / James Edwards and Luke Scott who took a Resounding Victory after 232 Laps and a Gruelling 8 Hour's of Racing 2 For Each of The Riders. Congratulations Delkevic Racing an Incredible Achievement.

 

In Second Place was The Team of (Earnshaw's Motorcycles Jonathan Lodge and James Lodge) after 232 Laps and 4 Hour's Between Them a Super Effort and Very Well Deserved Second Place Battle Through some Very Tough Competitors.

 

In Third Place was (Josh Daley Racing/RC Express by Dafabet Josh Daley and Rob Hodson) after a Very Hard and Gruelling 231 Laps in the Seat of Their Racing Bikes. Amazing Work Josh Daley Racing Incredible Ride and a Very Well Deserved Third Place.

 

An Exceptional Day of Endurance Racing from the No Limits Bike Racing Championship with Delkevic Racing's Liam Marchant / Gary Johnson / James Edwards and Luke Scott Taking The Final Victory of the Season with Datasys Racing Mark Daines / Jeremy Watson / Johnny Panter and Joe Higham taking The Championship for 2021.

 

A Big Congratulations to all of the Riders who took Part in this Event in my Opinion you Made everyone who Races in the Bennet's British Super Bike Championship look like Amateurs. You Guys are the Real Deal and am Really Looking forward to Watching this Epic Race all over Again Next Year. Until Then Keep Racing and Never Give Up Hope of One Day Standing on the Top Step of the Podium.

      

Pett Level East Sussex.

via

 

Uno de los descubrimientos más importantes por los indígenas australianos, es el Dingo australiano. Tambien conocido con el nombre cientifico de Canis lupus pallipes. Eran considerados una especie única y muy poderosa, ya que podían enfrentarse a cualquier animal, y salir siempre victoriosos en el combate.

 

Por otro lado, El dingo australiano fue catalogado en el año 2014 como una especie diferente y nueva, al no poder definirse como un simple perro o lobo. Sin duda alguna, es un animal que no puedes dejar de conocer. Toda la Información del dingo australiano, la explicaré a continuación.

 

La historia del dingo australiano

 

Los indígenas australianos, manejaban la teoría de que esta especie, provenía del Asia. Para ese entonces, los describían como muy obedientes, amistosos, y buenos compañeros. Esto permitió que los adoptaran, y los integraran a su vida.

 

Se piensa que esta especie, viajo desde Asia oriental, hasta Australia con los tripulantes humanos, hace más de 4500 años. Además de que eran clasificados como una subespecie de lobo gris, y que su más viejo antepasado, vivía en Asia.

 

Cuando los dingos se reproducían, los indígenas se encargaban de ayudar en la crianza de los mismos, y amaestrarlos. Se dice que las mujeres indígenas, iban a la caza de sus alimentos con ellos.

 

Se lograron compenetrar tanto con los dingos, que dormían con ellos en las noches frías, ya que la temperatura de esta especie, les permitía mantenerse calientes.

 

Por otro lado, de acuerdo a la mitología indígena, existían dingos buenos y malos. Es por ello, que es común ver como en las pinturas rupestres, se muestran algunos indígenas con lanzas sobre ellos.

 

El nombre cientifico del Dingo es Canis Lupus Pallipes

 

También eran catalogados como especies míticas, poderosas y muy respetadas. Es por ello, que cuando un dingo moría, se establecía un ritual especial, para ayudarlos a descansar en paz. Además de ser enterrados junto a los indígenas muertos, para que pudieran resguardar su alma.

 

En el año 1880, las praderas de Australia, fueron violentamente ensangrentadas con dingos, ya que los criadores se encargaron de matar a varios de ellos, para resguardar a sus rebaños.

 

Actualmente, para evitar tal masacre se colocó una valla de más de 400 millas de largo, y lograr impedir el paso de los dingos hacia esas zonas de Australia. A pesar de que el gobierno, es el que financia el mantenimiento de esta valla, se siguen presentando exterminaciones de dingos, en forma de envenenamientos.

 

Características del dingo

 

Entre las características que envuelven al dingo australiano del Dingo se encuentran las siguientes,

 

Especie

 

Aunque tienen características muy parecidas de lobos y perros, se considera que no pertenecen a ninguna de las dos especies; es por ello que luego de ser sometidos a varios estudio sobre sus características, se abrió una nueva categoría para ellos.

 

Alaridos

 

Se caracterizan por tener vocalizaciones complejas y únicas. Los alaridos incluyen diferentes bufidos, para advertirle a los extraños no acercarse. Cuando se encuentra en fase caza, realiza llamadas estridentes, y ronronea.

 

También tienen un sonido muy característico en forma de tos, usado como advertencia. Aunque no saben ladrar como los perros, pueden aprender si conviven con ellos.

 

Pareja de Dingos o Canis Lupus Pallipes

 

Anatomía

 

El dingo australiano características tiene las muñecas y cuello muy flexible, lo que le permite girar completa, para mirar todo lo que pasa a su alrededor. Además de patas muy fuertes, y hábiles para escalar cualquier tipo de árbol.

 

Las mandíbulas del dingo es mucho más larga, y los dientes más grandes, con respecto a los perros promedios. En la parte del cráneo, tiene crestas occipitales grandes, que lo hacen ver totalmente diferente.

 

Con respecto a las orejas, son erguidas y extensas al mismo tiempo. Finalmente las extremidades también son un poco más amplias, dándole más agilidad y velocidad en todos sus movimientos.

 

Clasificación

 

Hay diferentes tipos de dingos, es por ello que resulta común verlos en diferentes zonas y ambientes. Se dividen en dingos tradicionales, forestales, y alpinos.

 

Colores

 

Pueden encontrarse en diferentes colores. Por ejemplo el dingo tradicional es de color colorado, o canela. Los dingos forestales, suelen ser un poco más oscuros, y algunas veces tienen algunas capas de color negro con fuego.

 

Los dignos alpinos tienen un color crema, o blanco puro. En la mayoría de los casos, tienen marcas blancas en la punta de las patas, pecho o cola.

 

Habitat del dingo

 

Aunque se desconoce su descendencia original, y son catalogados como una nueva especie, se cree que el antepasado más cercano, provenía del Asia, por lo que estaban acostumbrados a vivir en ese tipo de hábitat.

 

Por otro lado, el Dingo Australiano hábitat al viajar a Australia, le resultó sencillo adaptarse a las nuevas condiciones climáticas, sin ningún problema. Hoy en día, siguen estando presentes en ambos continentes.

 

Todo esto nos permite afirmar que no importan Donde viven los dingo australianos, ya que se adaptan con facilidad a cualquier tipo de zona en la que se encuentran.

 

Dingo australiano alimentación

 

Siendo considerados uno de los grandes carnívoros de toda Australia, la Alimentación del dingo australiano está basada en carne. Están acostumbrados a cazar y matar animales de gran tamaño para alimentarse.

 

Las vacas y corderos, son una de sus principales fuentes de alimentación, es por ello que los ganaderos temen cuando los dingos se encuentran cerca de su territorio.

 

Estilo de vida

 

El estilo de vida del dingo australiano va a depender del ambiente, y la etapa en la que se encuentren, Por ejemplo, cuando están adolescentes, suelen tener un carácter amable, ser cariñosos, juguetones, y vivir feliz en las manadas. Siempre son guiados por un macho alfa.

 

En el caso de los dingos salvajes, su estilo de vida está marcado por el hábitat, disponibilidad de las presas, el tiempo que tienen, y los recursos libres que tengan a su disposición.

 

Por otro lado, en las zonas donde los recursos son escasos, los dignos se limitan a estar solos o en parejas. Esto se debe a que tienen mayores oportunidades para la caza de su alimento, lo cual se les dificultaría si existieran más miembros.

 

Si las manadas están conformadas por 12 0 15 dignos, la costumbre es separarse para buscar su alimento, y reunirse en un lugar de encuentro. De esta manera no compiten entre ellos.

 

Ahora bien, en las manadas grandes de dingos, el macho alfa y la hembra suelen estar a cargo de todo. La jerarquía está totalmente dominada por ellos dos.

 

Cuando esto ocurre, por norma general solo ellos tienen derecho a reproducirse. Si algún miembro de la manada desobedece esta regla, la hembra alfa tiene el derecho de matar a las crías de sus subordinados para demostrar su poder.

 

En las manadas numerosas, los miembros tienen la obligación de ayudar en la crianza de los cachorros. Además de proveerles su alimentación. Esto indica que lo que Que come el dingo australiano, debe ser regurgitado a las crías de la pareja alfa.

 

Con respecto a las horas de sueño, los dingos australianos suelen dormir pocas horas en la noche, ya que siempre están atentos a cualquier amenaza, y visitar las zonas cercanas, para encontrar sus nuevas fuentes de alimentos.

 

En el día se mantienen totalmente despiertos, y enfocados a cazar para alimentarse. Cuando matan más de lo que pueden comer, simplemente sepultan a sus presas, y luego las desentierran para continuar comiéndolas.

 

Una forma de marcar el territorio en donde se encuentran, y hacerles saber a su manada que es allí donde pasarán una temporada, es marcando el perímetro con la orina. Ese aroma les indica a otros dingos, que el territorio ya se encuentra ocupado.

 

En la mayoría de los casos, se necesita que todos los miembros de la manada, ya sean machos o hembras dejen su estela en algún lugar del territorio que se encuentran ocupando. De esta manera es más sencillo identificarse entre ellos.

 

Finalmente, hacen uso de los diferentes alaridos para comunicar lo que está sucediendo, o indicar su ubicación. Cuando se encuentran lejos, el sonido lo emiten entre varios miembros de la manada. Esto indica una expresión de camaradería y alegría. .

 

Reproduccion del dingo australiano

 

Una vez al año el dingo hembra se pone en celo, para poder reproducirse. Luego de pasar por el Dingo australiano reproducción, deben transcurrir 63 días, por norma general, para dar a luz a 5 o 6 cachorros.

 

Cuando nacen los dingos, tienen los ojos completamente cerrados; sin embargo desde pequeños tienen un sentido del olfato bien desarrollado. También disponen de garras bien afiladas, poco pelo, y nada de dientes.

 

Durante los primeros 12 días, la madre no puede abandonar su refugio para alimentarlos. En este caso, los demás miembros de la manada tienen el compromiso de llevar el alimento a la madre, para que pueda mantener a salvo a sus cachorros.

 

A medida que van creciendo los cachorros, son alimentados por varios miembros de la manada con comestibles regurgitados. De esta manera, pueden aprender a relamer directamente en la boca de los adultos, y promover la regurgitación de los alimentos.

 

Cuando cumplen 3 semanas de vida, pueden ser más veloces, y encontrarse fuera de la protección de la madre, para explorar el campo junto a la manada.

 

En esta etapa los cachorros suelen ser muy rápidos. Sin embargo siempre están vigilados, para que no sean víctimas de las aves de presa, y víboras.

 

Cumplidas las 8 semanas de vida, son totalmente desmamados de la madre, para ser alimentados por sólidos; generalmente comienzan comiendo ofertas regurgitadas, que les ofrecen algunos miembros de la manada.

 

Al tener 3 meses, son capaces de cazar pequeños animales e insectos para alimentarse. También son incluidos en los procesos de caza, de otros mamíferos, en donde se les enseña todo lo que deben hacer. Desde la forma de pasear, y el alarido correspondiente para atacar.

 

Finalmente los cachorros deciden sin continuar con su manada para toda la vida, o reproducirse, tener una compañera y armar una nueva manada. Sea cual sea su decisión en Donde vive el dingo australiano, siempre va a haber una manada.

 

Dingos Cachorros

 

Los mitos sobre los ataques de dingos

 

Hubo un tiempo, en el que se corrió el rumor de un ataque en los campos de Australia, por los dingos. La mayoría de los australianos estaba prácticamente en shock por tal noticia. Sin embargo se pudo comprobar, que todo era falso.

 

Los dignos salvajes son muy tímidos con los humanos, suelen mantener su distancia y evitar acercárseles. De igual forma, el gobierno de Australia les ha advertido a las personas, no acercárseles, ya que son una gran atracción turística.

 

Por otro lado, el gobierno también cuenta con la ayuda de una patrulla dingo, para evitar que los turistas intenten atraerlos, lanzándoles alimentos.

 

En peligro de extinción

 

Los humanos son los principales causantes de la extinción de los dingos, ya que suelen atacarlos, apresándolos o envenenándolos. Sin embargo, el riesgo de desaparecer aumenta, ya que sus líneas de sangre se diluyen poco a poco, con el cruzamiento de los perros normales.

 

Todo esto, permite considerar que el 70% de los dingos australianos que existen en la actualidad, no son totalmente puros, sino que son el híbrido de perros familiares.

 

Quieres seguir aprendiendo mas sobre los animales te invito a que veas los siguientes articulos:

 

El zorro

 

El coyote

 

El perro salvaje africano

 

Más datos informacion del dingo

 

Entre los datos más importantes, para lograr identificar a los dingos

 

australianos, se encuentran los siguientes.

 

No deben confundirse con lobos o perros, son una especie totalmente nueva y diferente.

 

Es conocido a nivel mundial, como el warrigal.

 

Generalmente tienen estas tonalidades, colores colorados, negro, crema y blanco.

 

Es catalogado el carnívoro más grande de toda Australia.

 

Una manada de dingos puede eliminar a un canguro adulto.

 

Pueden ser apreciados a través de las pinturas rupestres.

 

Se construyó una valla larga, para tratar de mantener a los dingos fuera del sureste de Australia.

 

Antes de ser adoptados por los indígenas, se creía que los perros trasladados de Asia hacia Australia, era una de las principales fuentes de alimentación de los tripulantes.

 

Sin duda alguna, los dingos australianos se han convertido en una especie muy interesante de conocer. Además de que tienen un papel muy importante en el ecosistema australiano, y un alto valor para los indígenas de esa zona.

   

La entrada El Dingo Australiano, Caracteristicas, Habitat, Alimentacion, Estilo de Vida aparece primero en Animales1.

 

animales1.com/dingo/

American Speedfest 8 Returned to Brands Hatch for another Fantastic American themed weekend Featuring the likes of Euro Nascar Legends and even Angelo American Formula 5000's Racing this weekender event was shaping up to be a good one.

 

The First Day was mostly focused on Qualifying with many of the Races taking Place on the Sunday. Each of the Teams was both busy in the outer Paddock and the Pitlane getting their cars ready for a shakedown session in which they would have to Qualify to see who could be the Fastest and take Pole Position for each of the Races come Sunday.

 

Angelo American Formula 5000

 

The Formula 5000's made a Thunderous return to the Brands Hatch circuit, Built during a time where many Formula 1 cars from the likes of Lotus Williams and McLaren we using Ground Effect and pushing up the speeds of their cars.

 

Formula 5000's took speeds to a whole new level by using V8 Engines to power their cars which were found to be even faster than those Formula 1 cars of that era on the straights of different race tracks. Chevron B37's and McRae GM1'S were amongst the field and Qualifying looked to be very close indeed.

 

In First Place taking Pole Position and The Fastest Lap was (Neil Glover) in his Chevron B37 with a Lap Time of 47.039 with an average speed of 92.44mph. An Insanely Fast Lap Time for Brands Hatches Indy Circuit.

 

In Second Place was (Mark Campfield) in his Chevron B24 with A Lap Time Of 47.694 and an Average Speed of 91.17mph still Impressively quick for Chevron Power.

 

In Third Place was (Greg Thornton) in his Chevron B24 with A Lap Time Of 47.775 with an Average Speed of 91.02mph showing the power of the Chevron Engine through every turn.

 

A Tightly Packed Grid for Sundays Race and it looks like its a Chevron Front Row lockout but who's car will have the power to Triumph over the others? only time will tell.

 

Bernie's Sports And V8's

 

Bernie's V8's were up next and showcased a lot of Impressive V8 Powered Machinery on the grid. Talbot Sunbeams, Austin Healey's and even MGB GT V8 powered Machinery hitting the Track during Qualifying. Lets see what V8 Power can do and which Drivers managed to tame the Beasts and make it into the top three.

 

In First Place Taking Pole Position and the Fastest Lap was the Duo of (Elis Mar/Elis Mat) in their Talbot Sunbeam Lotus with a Lap Time of 54.533 and an Average speed of 79.74mph. Fast and Furious Driving on display once again.

 

In Second Place was (James Plant) in his Austin Healey 106 with a Lap Time of 54.964 and an Average Speed of 79.11mph. Very Quick and Consistent Laps seen from James behind the wheel too.

 

In Third Place was the Duo of (Can/Wilson) in their Aston Martin V8 Vantage with a lap time of 55.397 and an Average speed of 78.49mph. Showing just how much power and Grunt that Aston has.

 

Another Fantastic set of V8 Powered Machines on Display showing the true power of the American Built V8'S and how they changed the game in terms of Racing and Road Going Cars. Who will win the Race on Sunday. Will have to wait and see.

 

Legends Cars Championship

 

Referred to as the Little Pocket Rockets these small Looking Cars may not loo like they have anything Special to offer but just wait until you see what these little Wolves in Sheep's clothing can do once out on the Track.

 

Using Motorbike Engines of 1200cc they Really do show on Track just how lightweight and fast they are and Slip Streaming is commonly a way of being able to Achieve a Faster Lap time by using the Driver in fronts Slip Stream to aid in the Aerodynamics of the Car and Reduce Drag. Lets see what Happened during Qualifying Heat 2

 

In First Place Taking Pole and Setting The Fastest Lap was (Chris Dewey) in his Legend with a Lap Time Of 56.700 with an Average Speed of 76.69mph. Crazy Fast for Something so small and yet very Agile in Control.

 

In Second Place was (Stephen Whitelegg) in his Legend 34 Ford Coupe with a Lap Time of 56.740 and an Average Speed of 76.64mph. First And Second look to be very close together Thanks to the aids in Slip Streaming down the Brabham Straight to gain positions or Fastest Laps.

 

In Third Place was (Miles Rudman) in his Legend 34 Coupe with a Lap Time Of 56.878. Very Close between the Top three and it just goes to show how Important Slip Streaming is to Gain an Advantage in this Qualifying Session.

 

Exciting Stuff Ahead of The

Legends Races on Sunday where One of the Drivers will Win the Race and Take the Victory, Who Will it be? Only Time Will Tell.

 

Nascar Whelen Euro Series-Pro

 

The Main Highlight Event of the Day and the Nascar's with their Thunderous Powered V8 Engines Roared onto the Indy Circuit and with Two Formation Laps Completed to Warm Up the Tyres every car was released to Start Qualifying. Lets See How the Grid Will Shape Up.

 

In First Place to Take Pole and The Fastest Lap was (Alon Day) in his Chevrolet Camaro Caal Racing with a Lap Time of 48.903 and an Average Speed of 88.92mph. I wonder if Marty McFly and Dock Brown were part of their Race Team to Achieve that Impressive Lap Time? Non the Less Amazing Work by Alon Day.

 

In Second Place was (Loris Hezemans) in his Ford Mustang Hedrik's Motorsport) with a Lap Time of 49.000 and an Average Speed of 88.74mph. Another Fast and Consistent Lap From Loris showing the Balance Between Driver and Car.

 

In Third Place was (Nicolo Rocca) in his Chevrolet Camaro DF1 Racing) with A Lap Time of 49.292 and an Average Speed of 88.22mph. All Three Drivers seem to be very close in terms of Lap Times and this will make for some Exciting Racing Come Race Day.

 

Close and Competitive Racing in Nascar-Pro but who will have the Power to Push even Harder and take Home The Victory come Race Day. We will have to wait and See.

 

EuroNascar-2

 

Euro Nascar-2 is A a series of Slightly Lower Tuned Nascar's that Features as a Way of Getting Drivers ready to head to the Big Time Nascar Racing that takes Place at Daytona and Indianapolis.

 

Drivers must First Prove themselves worthy by Starting out from the Bottom and Only The Best Drivers in the World can make it into Nascar's Top Level Racing Teams.

 

Lets See how the Grid Lines up and see who managed to Qualify the Fastest and take Pole Position.

 

In First Place and Taking Pole Position and The Fastest Lap was (Advait DeoDHar) in his Ford Mustang Caal Racing with A Lap Time Of 49.918 and An Average Speed of 87.11mph. A Really Well Controlled Lap and a very Focused Mind to Achieve such a Drive.

 

In Second Place was (Tobias Dauenhauer) in his Ford Mustang Hendriks Motorsport with a Lap Time Of 50.110 and an Average Speed Of 86.78mph. Really Well Done and a very Quick Driver and Car underneath Him.

 

In Third Place was (Justin Kunz ) in his Chevrolet Camaro DF1 Racing with A Lap Time Of 50.161. Very Fast and Consistent with the Top Three all Very Close and Ready to take on the Race and see who can Battle and Fight for a Victory.

 

An Exciting Qualifying Session for both Nascar-Pro and Euro Nascar-2 with Each set of Driver Showing the Speed Power and Machinery of the Great American State. Looking Forward To Seeing what Happens During The Race.

 

Pickup Trucks Championship

 

The Pickup Trucks Returned to Brands Hatch for Another High Speed Weekend of Flat Out Racing around the Indy Circuit. With Light Weight Chassis and Powerful Engines it was shaping up to be a very Large and Competitive Grid for Pickup Trucks.

 

In First Place Taking Pole Position and the Fastest Lap was (Reece Jones) in his Pick Up Truck 2000 with a Lap Time of 52.634 with an Average Speed of 82.61mph.

 

In Second Place was (George Turiccki) in his Pickup Truck 2000 with A Lap Time of 52.706mph and an average speed of 82.50mph.

 

In Third Place was (Mark Willis) in his Pickup Truck 2000 with A Lap Time of 52.976 and an Average Speed of 82.08mph.

 

Three Very Quick and Capable Drivers all Fighting for the Victory In Tomorrow's Race but who will be up to the challenge of Taking 1st Place and Winning. Only One Way To Find Out.

 

Speedfest Silhouettes

 

Formally Known as the Silhouettes the Super Silhouettes Brought with them some fast and impressive Space Frame Machinery to the track.

 

With Aero Packages and Light Weight Monacock Chassis these Monsters were going to be something Amazing to watch Race.

 

But First Lets See how Qualifying Shapes up.

 

In First Place Taking Pole and The Fastest Lap was (Ray Harris in his Ginetta G40r with a Lap Time of 50.564 and an Average speed of 86.00mph. Either Crazy or Insane I would Describe that Incredible Lap of Brands. Amazing Work.

 

In Second Place was (Malcom Blackman) in his Vauxhall Tigra with A Lap Time of 50.805 and an Average Speed of 85.59mph Another Crazy Quick and on the Edge Lap.

 

In Third Place was (Lewis Smith) in his Mercedes SLK with a Lap Time of 51.313 and an Average Speed of 84.74mph. Three Very Fast and Capable Drivers in this Qualifying Session.

 

Incredible Speed and Fast Reflex Driving From Each Driver out there. It will be Exciting to see who can bring home a Victory and push their Machinery past its Limits and into New Territory. Another Race I'm Looking Forward to Seeing.

 

A Brilliant End to the Days Qualifying and seeing all that Machinery out there was Fantastic. Congratulations to all of the Qualifiers who made the Top Three in Every Support Race. Looking Ford To Tomorrow and a Very Fierce Set Of Battles Thought the Day.

Model of a vent colony, three miles below the surface of the ocean. Clams, mussels, and limpets surround tube worms, which absorb on chemicals secreted by ocean vents – an environment unknown until 1977.

Installation view of "Life at The Limits: Stories of Amazing Species"

April 4, 2015 - January 3, 2016

American Museum of Natural History

New York, New York

 

No primeiro quadrimestre da gestão da prefeita Marília Campos, os limites constitucionais em investimentos com saúde e educação foram cumpridos. O resultado reflete o compromisso do governo com uma gestão austera, transparente e participativa.

 

Os dados foram apresentados pela Controladoria Geral, durante a 2ª audiência pública de prestação de contas, relativas às receitas e despesas quadrimestrais de 2020/2021, nesta quinta-feira (27/5) na Câmara Municipal de Contagem.

 

Os trabalhos foram conduzidos pelo Controlador-Geral, Jaime Vilela, com as participações do Auditor-Geral, Zânio Gontijo, o subsecretário de Fazenda, Fábio Alves, e o assessor de planejamento da Secretaria de Saúde, Newton Sérgio Lemos. A prestação de contas ocorre em cumprimento da Lei de Responsabilidade Fiscal (Lei nº 101 / 2000).

 

De acordo com o relatório apresentado pelo Auditor-Geral, na Secretaria de Saúde, o limite não só foi cumprido, como também superado: os recursos repassados chegaram a 22,49%, o que representa mais de R$ 96 milhões.

 

Com esse resultado, a atual gestão conseguiu destinar, além do limite mínimo (15%), montante superior para as ações e serviços de saúde. O percentual foi obtido sobre os impostos e transferências constitucionais legais.

 

A alocação adequada dos recursos viabilizou, por exemplo, ações como: implantação de novos leitos, insumos para a rede hospitalar, cofinanciamento das equipes da Atenção Primária à Saúde; cofinanciamento das Unidades Básicas de Saúde (UBS) e Unidades de Pronto Atendimento do Estado (UPAs); dentre várias outras ações.

 

Para o Controlador-Geral, Jaime Vilela, a prestação de contas é necessária, além de ser uma oportunidade para que o município mostre a transparência da gestão das receitas e despesas. Vilela enfatizou ainda, sobre a importância da população em acompanhar a gestão dos públicos.

 

“A gente tem que transformar essa audiência pública numa oportunidade de esclarecimento e de exercício de transparência. E cada vez mais, a sociedade possa ter familiaridade com a execução das despesas públicas e da arrecadação para que ela compreenda o processo. Quanto mais esse processo for compreendido, melhor ele será”, afirmou.

 

Conforme dados do relatório da controladoria, a Secretaria de Estado de Educação (SEE) também superou o teto mínimo de repasses ao município para manutenção e desenvolvimento do ensino, com 26,46% dos recursos destinados, cerca de R$ 113,8 milhões.

 

Desse modo, a atual gestão conseguiu ultrapassar o índice mínimo de 25%. Assim como para a Saúde, o percentual foi obtido sobre os impostos e transferências constitucionais legais.

 

Pelo Fundo de Manutenção e Desenvolvimento da Educação Básica e Valorização dos Profissionais da Educação – Fundeb, o relatório apontou que município recebeu cerca R$ 109 milhões.

 

Desse montante, cerca de R$ 20 milhões que seriam recursos de ICMS foram depositados equivocadamente pelo estado, na conta do Fundeb.

 

Com a correção dos valores, Contagem recebeu, de fato, pelo fundo, cerca de R$80 milhões e dessa quantia, já destinou R$ 70,5 milhões para as despesas com remuneração dos profissionais do magistério.

 

Mesmo com a pandemia, o repasse permitiu à atual gestão planejar o retorno das aulas de forma remota, contratações de profissionais, entre outros investimentos necessários.

 

Pela Constituição Federal, estados e municípios devem aplicar, todos os anos, 15% de recursos advindos da arrecadação de impostos em ações e serviços públicos de Saúde e 25% na manutenção e desenvolvimento do ensino. As porcentagens representam um limite mínimo constitucional.

 

Todas as disposições, com relação à movimentação dos recursos dos estados quanto às necessidades de saúde da população estão inseridas na Constituição no artigo 77, complementado com a Emenda constitucional 29, de 13 de setembro de 2000, e a Lei Complementar 141, de 13 de janeiro de 2012. As bases que asseguram recursos mínimos para a Educação estão dispostas no artigo 212 da Constituição Federal.

 

Foto: Elias Ramos/PMC

Howard Finster, T - Born Valley Head, AL 1916-

died Rome, GA 2001

 

HE LORD WILL DELIVER HIS PEOPLE ACROSS JORDAN, 1976, enamel on fiberboard, 30 1⁄8 x 29 5⁄8 in.

 

n 1976, after some four decades of preaching, Howard Finster responded to a vision in which God directed him to "paint sacred art." Finster believed that pictures would help people grasp the enormity of the Word of God. His painted sermons on life, death, salvation, and damnation eventually covered almost every inch of Paradise Garden, his four-acre art environment in Summerville, Georgia.

 

His concerns about a world of suffering and destruction drove Finster to create the artworks he called "signposts to salvation." In this triptych, he depicts trials encountered in the Bible's Book of Revelations, conveying his belief that no matter what problems loomed, God would protect and deliver the faithful.

 

Because Finster realized that his congregation did not remember his sermons even minutes after he had finished, he published religious songs and poetry in local newspapers in the 1930s and hosted a radio prayer show in the late 1930s and early 1940s. He claims God charged him to illustrate his religious visions in 1976 when "A warm feeling came over me to paint sacred art."

 

Finster began building his everchanging environmental sculpture, Paradise Garden, on swampy land behind his house in the early 1960s. Composed of walkways and constructions made from cast-off pieces of technology, the Garden assembles individual monuments to human inventors into an all-encompassing "Memorial to God." Much of the building material in the garden was accumulated from Finster's television and bicycle repair businesses and his twenty-one other trades.

____________________________________

 

"Women, queer artists, and artists of color have finally become the protagonists of recent American art history rather than its supporting characters. This is the lesson to be learned from the programming at New York’s Whitney Museum of American Art since it reopened in 2015, and it is now the big takeaway in the nation’s capital, at the Smithsonian American Art Museum, whose contemporary art galleries have reopened after a two-year closure.

 

During that time, architect Annabelle Selldorf refurbished these galleries, which have the challenge of pushing art history’s limits without going too far. Her interventions in these spaces are fairly inoffensive. Mainly, she’s pared down some of the structural clutter, removing some walls that once broke up a long, marble-floored hallway. To the naked eye, the galleries are only slightly different.

 

What is contained within, however, has shifted more noticeably—and is likely to influence other museums endeavoring to diversify their galleries. For one thing, I have never encountered a permanent collection hang with more Latinx and Native American artists, who, until very recently, were severely under-represented in US museums. That unto itself is notable.

 

It is a joy to see, presiding over one tall gallery, three gigantic beaded tunics courtesy of Jeffrey Gibson, a Choctaw artist who will represent the US at the next Venice Biennale. Printed with bombastic patterning and hung on tipi poles, they hang over viewers’ heads and allude to the Ghost Shirts used by members of the Sioux to reach ancestral spirits. One says on it “WITHOUT YOU I’M NOTHING.” That statement can also be seen as a confession on behalf of SAAM’s curators to the artists now included in this rehang: a multiplicity of perspectives is more nourishing than having just one.

 

Something similar can be seen in Judith F. Baca’s Las Tres Marías (1976). The installation features a drawing of a shy-looking chola on one side and an image of Baca as a tough-as-nails Pachuca on the other. These are both Chicana personae—the former from the ’70s, the latter from the ’40s—and the third component, a long looking glass, sutures the viewer into the piece. It’s no surprise this piece is shaped like a folding mirror, an item used to examine how one may present to the outside world. Baca suggests that a single reflection isn’t enough. To truly understand one’s self, many are needed.

 

It is hardly as though the Smithsonian American Art Museum’s collection ever lacked diversity. Nam June Paik’s Electronic Superhighway: Continental U.S., Alaska, Hawaii (2002), a video installation featuring a map of the country with each state’s borders containing TV monitors, is a crown jewel of the collection. It has returned once more, where it now faces a 2020 Tiffany Chung piece showing a United States strung with thread. So, too, has Alma Thomas’s magnum opus, Red Azaleas Singing and Dancing Rock and Roll Music (1976), a three-part stunner showing an array of petal-like red swatches drifting across white space.

 

But the usual heroes of 20th century art history are notably absent. Partly, that is because the Smithsonian American Art Museum doesn’t own notable works by canonical figures like Andy Warhol, Jasper Johns, and Robert Rauschenberg. (For those artists, you’d have to head to the National Gallery of Art.) Yet it is also partly because the curators want to destabilize the accepted lineage of postwar American art, shaking things up a bit and seeing where they land.

 

There is, of course, the expected Abstract Expressionism gallery, and while works by Willem de Kooning and Clyfford Still are present, those two are made to share space with artists whose contributions are still being properly accounted for. The standouts here are a prismatic painting by Ojibwe artist George Morrison and a piquant hanging orb, formed from knotted steel wire, by Claire Falkenstein.

 

This being the nation’s capital, there is also an entire space devoted to the Washington Color School. Come for Morris Louis’s 20-foot-long Beta Upsilon (1960), on view for the first time in 30 years, now minus the pencil marks left on its vast white center by a troublemaking visitor a long time ago. Stay for Mary Pinchot Meyer’s Half Light (1964), a painting that features a circle divided into colored quadrants, one of which has two mysterious dots near one edge.

 

From there, the sense of chronology begins to blur. The Baca piece appears in a gallery that loosely takes stock of feminist art of the 1970s; a clear picture of the movement’s aims fails to emerge because the various artists’ goals appear so disparate. It’s followed by an even vaguer gallery whose stated focus is “Multiculturalism and Art” during the ’70s and ’80s. Beyond the fact that all five artists included are not white, the gallery doesn’t have much of a binding thesis.

 

This partial view of recent art history leads to gaps, which is both a good thing and a bad thing. It’s a good thing because it offers due recognition for art-historical nonpareils. Audrey Flack is represented by Queen (1976), a Photorealist painting showing a view of a sliced orange, a rose, photographs, a playing card, and trinkets blown up to a towering size. It’s both gaudy and glorious. Hats off to the curators for letting it shine.

 

Then there are two totem-like sculptures by the late Truman Lowe, a member of the Ho-Chunk Nation, that are allowed to command a tall space of their own. They feature sticks of peeled willow that zigzag through boxy lumber structures, and they refuse to enjoin themselves to any artistic trend. Later on, there are three deliciously odd paintings by Howard Finster, of Talking Heads album cover fame. One shows Jesus descended to a mountain range strewn with people and cars who scale the peaks. Try cramming that into the confines of an accepted art movement.

 

That’s just three lesser-knowns who make an impact—there are many others on hand, from Ching Ho Cheng to Ken Ohara. And yet, herein lies this hang’s big problem: its gaping omissions in between them all, which are likely to be visible not just to the literati of the art world but to the general public, too.

 

Despite the focus of these new galleries being the 1940s to now, Pop, Minimalism, Conceptualism, and their resultant offshoots are skipped over entirely as the curators rush through the postwar era in order to get closer to the present. The Paik installation aside, there is almost no video art in this hang (although there is a newly formed space for moving-image work where a Carrie Mae Weems installation can be found), and no digital art or performance documentation at all, which is a shame, given that the museum owns important works by the likes of Cory Arcangel and Ana Mendieta, respectively. The AIDS crisis of the 1980s and ’90s and its devastating impact on the art world isn’t mentioned a single time in the wall text for these new galleries, and queer art more broadly is a blind spot.

 

Protest art periodically makes the cut, but any invocation of racism, misogyny, colonialism, and the like is typically abstracted or aestheticized. That all makes a work like Frank Romero’s Death of Rubén Salazar (1986) stand out. The painting depicts the 1970 killing of a Los Angeles Times reporter in a café during an unrelated incident amid a Chicano-led protest against the high number of Latino deaths in the Vietnam War. With its vibrant explosions of tear gas (Salazar was killed when a tear gas canister shot by the LA Sheriff Department struck his head) and its intense brushwork, it is as direct as can be—a history painting for our times. So, too, in a much different way, is Consuelo Jimenez Underwood’s Run, Jane, Run! (2004), a piece that ports over the “Immigrant Crossing” sign, first installed near the US-Mexico border in Southern California in the 1990s, and remakes it as a yellow tapestry that is threaded with barbed wire.

 

In general, this presentation could use more art like Romero and Jimenez Underwood’s. Yet the curators at least cop to the fact they’re seeking to hold handsome craftmanship and ugly historical events in tension, and the methods on display are productive in that regard.

 

By way of example, there’s Firelei Báez 2022 painting Untitled (Première Carte Pour L’Introduction A L’Histoire De Monde), which features a spray of red-orange paint blooming across a page from an 18th-century atlas documenting Europe’s colonies. One could say Báez’s blast of color recalls the bloodshed of manifest destiny, but that seems like an unfair interpretation for a work that provides so much visual pleasure. Rather than re-presenting the violence of a bygone era, Báez beautifies it. The result allows history to begin anew—on Báez’s own terms."

 

www.artnews.com/art-news/reviews/smithsonian-american-art...

..

The No Limits Bike Racing Championship made its formal Return to the World Famous Brands Hatch Grand Prix Circuit for a Very Special 8 Hour Endurance Race.

 

Each and Every Team Had a selection of High Powered Racing Machinery that would along with the Rider take on the Might of Brands Hatches' Grand Prix Circuit for a Gruelling 8 Hours Straight.

 

While Some Teams had as many as Four Riders to make the job a Little Bit Easier other Teams Had decided to go with just Two Riders for 4 Hours Each knowing they Had the Skills and Determination to Keep Racing Hard.

 

The Championship was in is Last Race of the Season here at Brands and Whoever Won this Final Event would take the No Limits Bike Racing Championship Crown.

 

Qualifying was up First and setting the Pace at the Top of the Timings was (Andelle Leathers / RatMally Graphic) on their Kawasaki 998/Kawasaki 1000 Racing Bikes with an Incredible Time of 1.31.846 and a Top Speed of 95.37 to take Pole at The Start of the Race.

 

In Second Place was (Delkevic Racing) Kawasaki 1000/BMW 1000/Kawasaki 1000 Yamaha 1000 Racing Bikes with a Lap Time of 1.31.784 and a Top Speed of 95.34mph.

 

In Third Place was (Earnshaw's Motorcycles) BMW 1000/BMW 1000 Racing Bikes with A Lap Time of 1.32.099 and an Top Speed of 95.11mph.

 

With Qualifying Over and a 11:46am Start Fast Approaching all of the Riders to head out for the First 2 Hours. Just like Old School Le Mans the Riders all Lined Up on the Opposite Side of the Pitlane with their Respective Teams Holding onto the Bikes Ready for them to Blast off into the Distance around the Circuit.

 

A Loud Bang from the Calcian Signalled the Start of an 8 Hour Endurance Race and each Rider Ran Towards their Bikes Fired them Up and Set off onto the Race Track.

 

During the First Hour All Riders Made it through the First Opening Laps without any Problems and already many of them were getting up to Speed while some other Riders Preferred to nurse their Machinery for the First Hour to Avoid anything Breaking or Failing on thease High Powered Machines.

 

As Hour two Approached Everyone was still going strong and The Riders were Each Getting into a Really Good Rhythm of the Grand Prix circuit while other Teams had opted to Head to the pits to swap Riders and Give themselves more of a chance to take Victory with a selection of different Talents and Bikes available.

 

The Start of Hour Three saw a lot of Different Battles Going on thought the field and on the Back Straight there was some Close Wheel to Wheel Action Between Every Rider traveling at Speeds close to Nearly 100mph. Some Riders were Pushing so Hard that Even their Front Wheels Rose into the Air Making for some Epic and Thrilling Moments. An Overtake by Rider Number 97 on 36 was the Highlight so Far.

 

Hour Four and Still Each Rider was not Giving Up on the Chance of Victory with Half of the Endurance Race Completed by Now it was Time for Another Rider Change and with Many Teams Heading for the Pits Once Again Each New Rider Ventured Out onto the Brands Hatch GP Circuit it Beautiful Sunlit Conditions Although thease Must Have Been Playing Havoc with the Visibility for the Riders. Non the Less After Just One Retirement Earlier Due to an Engine Fire and a Marshall that should Have Really Been More Prepared. the Remaining Riders Soldered on.

 

The Fifth Hour was now Upon them and after a Very Hectic and Fast set of Laps Earlier Many Riders were setting down into their Positions to make sure the Bike they were on would Survive to the End. Druids was a Place to witness some Incredible Overtakes During this Time with the Light Levels Lowering and The Riders Really Looking like they were Pushing Hard and Encouraging their Machines to solder onto Victory.

 

Hour Six and with the Light Levels Now Falling even Lower it looked like this Endurance Race would be Ending in Nearly Dark Conditions as the Rider Kept on Going. The Few Retirement's Earlier on during Hour 2 and 3 were now just a Memory in the Surviving Riders Minds who all had One Goal in Mind. Get This Bike to the End of The Race.

 

Hour Seven and by now the Light was Nearly all But Gone with the Last Rays of Sunshine Disappearing Entirely from the Tops of Druids and yet Despite this now disadvantage i terms of Having a lot less light The Riders Still Continued to Push Hard and Fight their was To Victory in the Closing Stages as the Race Reached its Climax.

 

The Final Hour was Finally here and Every Rider who Had Been Concentrating Hard all Day was Now in a Position to Push Hard for that Final Hour of Glory that would mean the Difference Between either a Race Victory or a Race Loss. As The Minuets Slowly Ticked Down and The Last Light of Day Had been Long Extinguished from the Circuit. it was the Team of (Delkevic Racing's Liam Marchant / Gary Johnson / James Edwards and Luke Scott who took a Resounding Victory after 232 Laps and a Gruelling 8 Hour's of Racing 2 For Each of The Riders. Congratulations Delkevic Racing an Incredible Achievement.

 

In Second Place was The Team of (Earnshaw's Motorcycles Jonathan Lodge and James Lodge) after 232 Laps and 4 Hour's Between Them a Super Effort and Very Well Deserved Second Place Battle Through some Very Tough Competitors.

 

In Third Place was (Josh Daley Racing/RC Express by Dafabet Josh Daley and Rob Hodson) after a Very Hard and Gruelling 231 Laps in the Seat of Their Racing Bikes. Amazing Work Josh Daley Racing Incredible Ride and a Very Well Deserved Third Place.

 

An Exceptional Day of Endurance Racing from the No Limits Bike Racing Championship with Delkevic Racing's Liam Marchant / Gary Johnson / James Edwards and Luke Scott Taking The Final Victory of the Season with Datasys Racing Mark Daines / Jeremy Watson / Johnny Panter and Joe Higham taking The Championship for 2021.

 

A Big Congratulations to all of the Riders who took Part in this Event in my Opinion you Made everyone who Races in the Bennet's British Super Bike Championship look like Amateurs. You Guys are the Real Deal and am Really Looking forward to Watching this Epic Race all over Again Next Year. Until Then Keep Racing and Never Give Up Hope of One Day Standing on the Top Step of the Podium.

      

Guaranda.- La Comisión Especial de Límites del GAD Provincial de Bolívar, conformada por su presidente, Eco. Luis Montero, y a la vez Alcalde del Cantón Chillanes, y los vocales, Sr. Ramsses Torres, y Dr. Simón Yánez Alcaldes de Guaranda y San Miguel respectivamente, la tarde de este sábado 8 de julio, sesionaron junto a una gran cantidad de bolivarenses en el Salón de la Ciudad del Palacio Municipal de Guaranda. Bajo convocatoria esta reunión extraordinaria trató como único punto dentro del orden del día el “Informe del Ejecutivo del Gobierno Autónomo Descentralizado de la Provincia Bolívar respecto a las acciones legales o administrativas adoptadas con relación al conflicto de límites que mantendría nuestra provincia con: Guayas, Los Ríos, Cotopaxi y Tungurahua, y se dé a conocer a la ciudadanía si existe o no desmembración territorial que afecte a nuestra provincia.

La inasistencia del Prefecto de Bolívar, Dr. Vinicio Coloma a esta sesión fue evidente, pese a ser invitado con varios días de anticipación. Ciudadanos y autoridades presentes expresaron su inconformidad por esta negativa de parte del ejecutivo del GAD Provincial de Bolívar.

Ramsses Torres Espinosa, en calidad de vocal hizo la petición formal ante este cuerpo colegiado para que sea la ciudadanía la encargada de exponer sus posturas y presentar posibles mociones para que sean tomadas en cuenta y al final de la misma votar y suscribir en actas las resoluciones y acuerdos adoptados.

Este diálogo tuvo gran participación de la ciudadanía, es así que tomando uso de la palabra el Lic. José Cañas, presidente del “Comité Cívico de Chillanes” rechazó públicamente la inasistencia del Asambleísta Ángel Sinmalesa y del Dr. Vinicio Coloma, quien además expresó: “No vamos a permitir que un centímetro de la provincia Bolivar se toque, tampoco queremos que se nos regale nada ni queremos que se nos quite”

Las expresiones ciudadanas coincidían en cada intervención al defender la heredad territorial de los bolivarenses, Gilberto Vaca por su parte en su alocución dijo que “El Consejo Nacional de Límites (CONALI), está cometiendo una arbitrariedad, pero el accionar de la Prefectura de Bolívar en defensa del territorio bolivarense ha sido nula… las sentencias ejecutoriadas dadas a favor de la provincia Bolívar fueron y son desconocidas principalmente por el Gobierno Provincial”.

En este sentido, el Asambleísta Luis Pachala al hacer uso del micrófono dijo que “estamos en tiempos sumamente sensibles para la provincia de Bolívar, en cuanto se refiere a los límites y por lo tanto si se trata de tiempos sensibles se trata de ser técnicos, jurídicos, políticos sociales y prudentes, la premisa mayor será la unidad de las autoridades sin importar el partido político que seamos”.

Luego de escuchar las diferentes opiniones y posturas de los protagonistas provinciales, ciudadanos convocados y dirigentes sociales, la Comisión Especial de Límites del GAD Provincial de Bolívar, a través de su vocal y Alcalde del cantón Guaranda, el Sr. Ramsses Torres Espinosa levantó a moción los siguientes puntos:

• La unidad pragmática y no lírica de los Bolivarenses.

• Mantener una Sesión permanente y pública de la Comisión de Límites.

- Pedir al Pleno de la Asamblea que se archive el proyecto de ley referente a la fijación de Límites.

• Manifiesto Público a través de dos comisiones: la primera una comisión jurídica política y la segunda una comisión de redacción.

• Que la Asamblea Ciudadana desarrollada sea considerada como Asamblea Provincial.

El Alcalde Torres y vocal de la Comisión Especial de Límites, enérgicamente pidió que “los bolivarenses nos mantengamos firmes, de pie, con valentía, en defensa de nuestro territorio”.

Finalmente, estas propuestas fueron sometidas a votación, teniendo la aprobación del cuerpo colegiado y el respaldo favorable y unánime de los cientos de asistentes, mismos que aún después de haber culminado esta sesión, permanecieron dentro de las instalaciones del Palacio Municipal, estrechando sus manos y sumando ideas que van en beneficio de la defensa del territorio de la provincia Bolívar.

Fuente: Dirección de Comunicación del GADCG

The No Limits Bike Racing Championship made its formal Return to the World Famous Brands Hatch Grand Prix Circuit for a Very Special 8 Hour Endurance Race.

 

Each and Every Team Had a selection of High Powered Racing Machinery that would along with the Rider take on the Might of Brands Hatches' Grand Prix Circuit for a Gruelling 8 Hours Straight.

 

While Some Teams had as many as Four Riders to make the job a Little Bit Easier other Teams Had decided to go with just Two Riders for 4 Hours Each knowing they Had the Skills and Determination to Keep Racing Hard.

 

The Championship was in is Last Race of the Season here at Brands and Whoever Won this Final Event would take the No Limits Bike Racing Championship Crown.

 

Qualifying was up First and setting the Pace at the Top of the Timings was (Andelle Leathers / RatMally Graphic) on their Kawasaki 998/Kawasaki 1000 Racing Bikes with an Incredible Time of 1.31.846 and a Top Speed of 95.37 to take Pole at The Start of the Race.

 

In Second Place was (Delkevic Racing) Kawasaki 1000/BMW 1000/Kawasaki 1000 Yamaha 1000 Racing Bikes with a Lap Time of 1.31.784 and a Top Speed of 95.34mph.

 

In Third Place was (Earnshaw's Motorcycles) BMW 1000/BMW 1000 Racing Bikes with A Lap Time of 1.32.099 and an Top Speed of 95.11mph.

 

With Qualifying Over and a 11:46am Start Fast Approaching all of the Riders to head out for the First 2 Hours. Just like Old School Le Mans the Riders all Lined Up on the Opposite Side of the Pitlane with their Respective Teams Holding onto the Bikes Ready for them to Blast off into the Distance around the Circuit.

 

A Loud Bang from the Calcian Signalled the Start of an 8 Hour Endurance Race and each Rider Ran Towards their Bikes Fired them Up and Set off onto the Race Track.

 

During the First Hour All Riders Made it through the First Opening Laps without any Problems and already many of them were getting up to Speed while some other Riders Preferred to nurse their Machinery for the First Hour to Avoid anything Breaking or Failing on thease High Powered Machines.

 

As Hour two Approached Everyone was still going strong and The Riders were Each Getting into a Really Good Rhythm of the Grand Prix circuit while other Teams had opted to Head to the pits to swap Riders and Give themselves more of a chance to take Victory with a selection of different Talents and Bikes available.

 

The Start of Hour Three saw a lot of Different Battles Going on thought the field and on the Back Straight there was some Close Wheel to Wheel Action Between Every Rider traveling at Speeds close to Nearly 100mph. Some Riders were Pushing so Hard that Even their Front Wheels Rose into the Air Making for some Epic and Thrilling Moments. An Overtake by Rider Number 97 on 36 was the Highlight so Far.

 

Hour Four and Still Each Rider was not Giving Up on the Chance of Victory with Half of the Endurance Race Completed by Now it was Time for Another Rider Change and with Many Teams Heading for the Pits Once Again Each New Rider Ventured Out onto the Brands Hatch GP Circuit it Beautiful Sunlit Conditions Although thease Must Have Been Playing Havoc with the Visibility for the Riders. Non the Less After Just One Retirement Earlier Due to an Engine Fire and a Marshall that should Have Really Been More Prepared. the Remaining Riders Soldered on.

 

The Fifth Hour was now Upon them and after a Very Hectic and Fast set of Laps Earlier Many Riders were setting down into their Positions to make sure the Bike they were on would Survive to the End. Druids was a Place to witness some Incredible Overtakes During this Time with the Light Levels Lowering and The Riders Really Looking like they were Pushing Hard and Encouraging their Machines to solder onto Victory.

 

Hour Six and with the Light Levels Now Falling even Lower it looked like this Endurance Race would be Ending in Nearly Dark Conditions as the Rider Kept on Going. The Few Retirement's Earlier on during Hour 2 and 3 were now just a Memory in the Surviving Riders Minds who all had One Goal in Mind. Get This Bike to the End of The Race.

 

Hour Seven and by now the Light was Nearly all But Gone with the Last Rays of Sunshine Disappearing Entirely from the Tops of Druids and yet Despite this now disadvantage i terms of Having a lot less light The Riders Still Continued to Push Hard and Fight their was To Victory in the Closing Stages as the Race Reached its Climax.

 

The Final Hour was Finally here and Every Rider who Had Been Concentrating Hard all Day was Now in a Position to Push Hard for that Final Hour of Glory that would mean the Difference Between either a Race Victory or a Race Loss. As The Minuets Slowly Ticked Down and The Last Light of Day Had been Long Extinguished from the Circuit. it was the Team of (Delkevic Racing's Liam Marchant / Gary Johnson / James Edwards and Luke Scott who took a Resounding Victory after 232 Laps and a Gruelling 8 Hour's of Racing 2 For Each of The Riders. Congratulations Delkevic Racing an Incredible Achievement.

 

In Second Place was The Team of (Earnshaw's Motorcycles Jonathan Lodge and James Lodge) after 232 Laps and 4 Hour's Between Them a Super Effort and Very Well Deserved Second Place Battle Through some Very Tough Competitors.

 

In Third Place was (Josh Daley Racing/RC Express by Dafabet Josh Daley and Rob Hodson) after a Very Hard and Gruelling 231 Laps in the Seat of Their Racing Bikes. Amazing Work Josh Daley Racing Incredible Ride and a Very Well Deserved Third Place.

 

An Exceptional Day of Endurance Racing from the No Limits Bike Racing Championship with Delkevic Racing's Liam Marchant / Gary Johnson / James Edwards and Luke Scott Taking The Final Victory of the Season with Datasys Racing Mark Daines / Jeremy Watson / Johnny Panter and Joe Higham taking The Championship for 2021.

 

A Big Congratulations to all of the Riders who took Part in this Event in my Opinion you Made everyone who Races in the Bennet's British Super Bike Championship look like Amateurs. You Guys are the Real Deal and am Really Looking forward to Watching this Epic Race all over Again Next Year. Until Then Keep Racing and Never Give Up Hope of One Day Standing on the Top Step of the Podium.

      

The No Limits Bike Racing Championship made its formal Return to the World Famous Brands Hatch Grand Prix Circuit for a Very Special 8 Hour Endurance Race.

 

Each and Every Team Had a selection of High Powered Racing Machinery that would along with the Rider take on the Might of Brands Hatches' Grand Prix Circuit for a Gruelling 8 Hours Straight.

 

While Some Teams had as many as Four Riders to make the job a Little Bit Easier other Teams Had decided to go with just Two Riders for 4 Hours Each knowing they Had the Skills and Determination to Keep Racing Hard.

 

The Championship was in is Last Race of the Season here at Brands and Whoever Won this Final Event would take the No Limits Bike Racing Championship Crown.

 

Qualifying was up First and setting the Pace at the Top of the Timings was (Andelle Leathers / RatMally Graphic) on their Kawasaki 998/Kawasaki 1000 Racing Bikes with an Incredible Time of 1.31.846 and a Top Speed of 95.37 to take Pole at The Start of the Race.

 

In Second Place was (Delkevic Racing) Kawasaki 1000/BMW 1000/Kawasaki 1000 Yamaha 1000 Racing Bikes with a Lap Time of 1.31.784 and a Top Speed of 95.34mph.

 

In Third Place was (Earnshaw's Motorcycles) BMW 1000/BMW 1000 Racing Bikes with A Lap Time of 1.32.099 and an Top Speed of 95.11mph.

 

With Qualifying Over and a 11:46am Start Fast Approaching all of the Riders to head out for the First 2 Hours. Just like Old School Le Mans the Riders all Lined Up on the Opposite Side of the Pitlane with their Respective Teams Holding onto the Bikes Ready for them to Blast off into the Distance around the Circuit.

 

A Loud Bang from the Calcian Signalled the Start of an 8 Hour Endurance Race and each Rider Ran Towards their Bikes Fired them Up and Set off onto the Race Track.

 

During the First Hour All Riders Made it through the First Opening Laps without any Problems and already many of them were getting up to Speed while some other Riders Preferred to nurse their Machinery for the First Hour to Avoid anything Breaking or Failing on thease High Powered Machines.

 

As Hour two Approached Everyone was still going strong and The Riders were Each Getting into a Really Good Rhythm of the Grand Prix circuit while other Teams had opted to Head to the pits to swap Riders and Give themselves more of a chance to take Victory with a selection of different Talents and Bikes available.

 

The Start of Hour Three saw a lot of Different Battles Going on thought the field and on the Back Straight there was some Close Wheel to Wheel Action Between Every Rider traveling at Speeds close to Nearly 100mph. Some Riders were Pushing so Hard that Even their Front Wheels Rose into the Air Making for some Epic and Thrilling Moments. An Overtake by Rider Number 97 on 36 was the Highlight so Far.

 

Hour Four and Still Each Rider was not Giving Up on the Chance of Victory with Half of the Endurance Race Completed by Now it was Time for Another Rider Change and with Many Teams Heading for the Pits Once Again Each New Rider Ventured Out onto the Brands Hatch GP Circuit it Beautiful Sunlit Conditions Although thease Must Have Been Playing Havoc with the Visibility for the Riders. Non the Less After Just One Retirement Earlier Due to an Engine Fire and a Marshall that should Have Really Been More Prepared. the Remaining Riders Soldered on.

 

The Fifth Hour was now Upon them and after a Very Hectic and Fast set of Laps Earlier Many Riders were setting down into their Positions to make sure the Bike they were on would Survive to the End. Druids was a Place to witness some Incredible Overtakes During this Time with the Light Levels Lowering and The Riders Really Looking like they were Pushing Hard and Encouraging their Machines to solder onto Victory.

 

Hour Six and with the Light Levels Now Falling even Lower it looked like this Endurance Race would be Ending in Nearly Dark Conditions as the Rider Kept on Going. The Few Retirement's Earlier on during Hour 2 and 3 were now just a Memory in the Surviving Riders Minds who all had One Goal in Mind. Get This Bike to the End of The Race.

 

Hour Seven and by now the Light was Nearly all But Gone with the Last Rays of Sunshine Disappearing Entirely from the Tops of Druids and yet Despite this now disadvantage i terms of Having a lot less light The Riders Still Continued to Push Hard and Fight their was To Victory in the Closing Stages as the Race Reached its Climax.

 

The Final Hour was Finally here and Every Rider who Had Been Concentrating Hard all Day was Now in a Position to Push Hard for that Final Hour of Glory that would mean the Difference Between either a Race Victory or a Race Loss. As The Minuets Slowly Ticked Down and The Last Light of Day Had been Long Extinguished from the Circuit. it was the Team of (Delkevic Racing's Liam Marchant / Gary Johnson / James Edwards and Luke Scott who took a Resounding Victory after 232 Laps and a Gruelling 8 Hour's of Racing 2 For Each of The Riders. Congratulations Delkevic Racing an Incredible Achievement.

 

In Second Place was The Team of (Earnshaw's Motorcycles Jonathan Lodge and James Lodge) after 232 Laps and 4 Hour's Between Them a Super Effort and Very Well Deserved Second Place Battle Through some Very Tough Competitors.

 

In Third Place was (Josh Daley Racing/RC Express by Dafabet Josh Daley and Rob Hodson) after a Very Hard and Gruelling 231 Laps in the Seat of Their Racing Bikes. Amazing Work Josh Daley Racing Incredible Ride and a Very Well Deserved Third Place.

 

An Exceptional Day of Endurance Racing from the No Limits Bike Racing Championship with Delkevic Racing's Liam Marchant / Gary Johnson / James Edwards and Luke Scott Taking The Final Victory of the Season with Datasys Racing Mark Daines / Jeremy Watson / Johnny Panter and Joe Higham taking The Championship for 2021.

 

A Big Congratulations to all of the Riders who took Part in this Event in my Opinion you Made everyone who Races in the Bennet's British Super Bike Championship look like Amateurs. You Guys are the Real Deal and am Really Looking forward to Watching this Epic Race all over Again Next Year. Until Then Keep Racing and Never Give Up Hope of One Day Standing on the Top Step of the Podium.

      

Nick says he kicked someone else off his Facebook friends list so we could be friends.

 

This statement pretty much made my day.

 

Dinner at Vietnam House

San Gabriel, CA

8/2/2011.

 

-J

Pecked out on my iPhone. Sorry for any typos.

www.jozjozjoz.com

American Speedfest 8 Returned to Brands Hatch for another Fantastic American themed weekend Featuring the likes of Euro Nascar Legends and even Angelo American Formula 5000's Racing this weekender event was shaping up to be a good one.

 

The First Day was mostly focused on Qualifying with many of the Races taking Place on the Sunday. Each of the Teams was both busy in the outer Paddock and the Pitlane getting their cars ready for a shakedown session in which they would have to Qualify to see who could be the Fastest and take Pole Position for each of the Races come Sunday.

 

Angelo American Formula 5000

 

The Formula 5000's made a Thunderous return to the Brands Hatch circuit, Built during a time where many Formula 1 cars from the likes of Lotus Williams and McLaren we using Ground Effect and pushing up the speeds of their cars.

 

Formula 5000's took speeds to a whole new level by using V8 Engines to power their cars which were found to be even faster than those Formula 1 cars of that era on the straights of different race tracks. Chevron B37's and McRae GM1'S were amongst the field and Qualifying looked to be very close indeed.

 

In First Place taking Pole Position and The Fastest Lap was (Neil Glover) in his Chevron B37 with a Lap Time of 47.039 with an average speed of 92.44mph. An Insanely Fast Lap Time for Brands Hatches Indy Circuit.

 

In Second Place was (Mark Campfield) in his Chevron B24 with A Lap Time Of 47.694 and an Average Speed of 91.17mph still Impressively quick for Chevron Power.

 

In Third Place was (Greg Thornton) in his Chevron B24 with A Lap Time Of 47.775 with an Average Speed of 91.02mph showing the power of the Chevron Engine through every turn.

 

A Tightly Packed Grid for Sundays Race and it looks like its a Chevron Front Row lockout but who's car will have the power to Triumph over the others? only time will tell.

 

Bernie's Sports And V8's

 

Bernie's V8's were up next and showcased a lot of Impressive V8 Powered Machinery on the grid. Talbot Sunbeams, Austin Healey's and even MGB GT V8 powered Machinery hitting the Track during Qualifying. Lets see what V8 Power can do and which Drivers managed to tame the Beasts and make it into the top three.

 

In First Place Taking Pole Position and the Fastest Lap was the Duo of (Elis Mar/Elis Mat) in their Talbot Sunbeam Lotus with a Lap Time of 54.533 and an Average speed of 79.74mph. Fast and Furious Driving on display once again.

 

In Second Place was (James Plant) in his Austin Healey 106 with a Lap Time of 54.964 and an Average Speed of 79.11mph. Very Quick and Consistent Laps seen from James behind the wheel too.

 

In Third Place was the Duo of (Can/Wilson) in their Aston Martin V8 Vantage with a lap time of 55.397 and an Average speed of 78.49mph. Showing just how much power and Grunt that Aston has.

 

Another Fantastic set of V8 Powered Machines on Display showing the true power of the American Built V8'S and how they changed the game in terms of Racing and Road Going Cars. Who will win the Race on Sunday. Will have to wait and see.

 

Legends Cars Championship

 

Referred to as the Little Pocket Rockets these small Looking Cars may not loo like they have anything Special to offer but just wait until you see what these little Wolves in Sheep's clothing can do once out on the Track.

 

Using Motorbike Engines of 1200cc they Really do show on Track just how lightweight and fast they are and Slip Streaming is commonly a way of being able to Achieve a Faster Lap time by using the Driver in fronts Slip Stream to aid in the Aerodynamics of the Car and Reduce Drag. Lets see what Happened during Qualifying Heat 2

 

In First Place Taking Pole and Setting The Fastest Lap was (Chris Dewey) in his Legend with a Lap Time Of 56.700 with an Average Speed of 76.69mph. Crazy Fast for Something so small and yet very Agile in Control.

 

In Second Place was (Stephen Whitelegg) in his Legend 34 Ford Coupe with a Lap Time of 56.740 and an Average Speed of 76.64mph. First And Second look to be very close together Thanks to the aids in Slip Streaming down the Brabham Straight to gain positions or Fastest Laps.

 

In Third Place was (Miles Rudman) in his Legend 34 Coupe with a Lap Time Of 56.878. Very Close between the Top three and it just goes to show how Important Slip Streaming is to Gain an Advantage in this Qualifying Session.

 

Exciting Stuff Ahead of The

Legends Races on Sunday where One of the Drivers will Win the Race and Take the Victory, Who Will it be? Only Time Will Tell.

 

Nascar Whelen Euro Series-Pro

 

The Main Highlight Event of the Day and the Nascar's with their Thunderous Powered V8 Engines Roared onto the Indy Circuit and with Two Formation Laps Completed to Warm Up the Tyres every car was released to Start Qualifying. Lets See How the Grid Will Shape Up.

 

In First Place to Take Pole and The Fastest Lap was (Alon Day) in his Chevrolet Camaro Caal Racing with a Lap Time of 48.903 and an Average Speed of 88.92mph. I wonder if Marty McFly and Dock Brown were part of their Race Team to Achieve that Impressive Lap Time? Non the Less Amazing Work by Alon Day.

 

In Second Place was (Loris Hezemans) in his Ford Mustang Hedrik's Motorsport) with a Lap Time of 49.000 and an Average Speed of 88.74mph. Another Fast and Consistent Lap From Loris showing the Balance Between Driver and Car.

 

In Third Place was (Nicolo Rocca) in his Chevrolet Camaro DF1 Racing) with A Lap Time of 49.292 and an Average Speed of 88.22mph. All Three Drivers seem to be very close in terms of Lap Times and this will make for some Exciting Racing Come Race Day.

 

Close and Competitive Racing in Nascar-Pro but who will have the Power to Push even Harder and take Home The Victory come Race Day. We will have to wait and See.

 

EuroNascar-2

 

Euro Nascar-2 is A a series of Slightly Lower Tuned Nascar's that Features as a Way of Getting Drivers ready to head to the Big Time Nascar Racing that takes Place at Daytona and Indianapolis.

 

Drivers must First Prove themselves worthy by Starting out from the Bottom and Only The Best Drivers in the World can make it into Nascar's Top Level Racing Teams.

 

Lets See how the Grid Lines up and see who managed to Qualify the Fastest and take Pole Position.

 

In First Place and Taking Pole Position and The Fastest Lap was (Advait DeoDHar) in his Ford Mustang Caal Racing with A Lap Time Of 49.918 and An Average Speed of 87.11mph. A Really Well Controlled Lap and a very Focused Mind to Achieve such a Drive.

 

In Second Place was (Tobias Dauenhauer) in his Ford Mustang Hendriks Motorsport with a Lap Time Of 50.110 and an Average Speed Of 86.78mph. Really Well Done and a very Quick Driver and Car underneath Him.

 

In Third Place was (Justin Kunz ) in his Chevrolet Camaro DF1 Racing with A Lap Time Of 50.161. Very Fast and Consistent with the Top Three all Very Close and Ready to take on the Race and see who can Battle and Fight for a Victory.

 

An Exciting Qualifying Session for both Nascar-Pro and Euro Nascar-2 with Each set of Driver Showing the Speed Power and Machinery of the Great American State. Looking Forward To Seeing what Happens During The Race.

 

Pickup Trucks Championship

 

The Pickup Trucks Returned to Brands Hatch for Another High Speed Weekend of Flat Out Racing around the Indy Circuit. With Light Weight Chassis and Powerful Engines it was shaping up to be a very Large and Competitive Grid for Pickup Trucks.

 

In First Place Taking Pole Position and the Fastest Lap was (Reece Jones) in his Pick Up Truck 2000 with a Lap Time of 52.634 with an Average Speed of 82.61mph.

 

In Second Place was (George Turiccki) in his Pickup Truck 2000 with A Lap Time of 52.706mph and an average speed of 82.50mph.

 

In Third Place was (Mark Willis) in his Pickup Truck 2000 with A Lap Time of 52.976 and an Average Speed of 82.08mph.

 

Three Very Quick and Capable Drivers all Fighting for the Victory In Tomorrow's Race but who will be up to the challenge of Taking 1st Place and Winning. Only One Way To Find Out.

 

Speedfest Silhouettes

 

Formally Known as the Silhouettes the Super Silhouettes Brought with them some fast and impressive Space Frame Machinery to the track.

 

With Aero Packages and Light Weight Monacock Chassis these Monsters were going to be something Amazing to watch Race.

 

But First Lets See how Qualifying Shapes up.

 

In First Place Taking Pole and The Fastest Lap was (Ray Harris in his Ginetta G40r with a Lap Time of 50.564 and an Average speed of 86.00mph. Either Crazy or Insane I would Describe that Incredible Lap of Brands. Amazing Work.

 

In Second Place was (Malcom Blackman) in his Vauxhall Tigra with A Lap Time of 50.805 and an Average Speed of 85.59mph Another Crazy Quick and on the Edge Lap.

 

In Third Place was (Lewis Smith) in his Mercedes SLK with a Lap Time of 51.313 and an Average Speed of 84.74mph. Three Very Fast and Capable Drivers in this Qualifying Session.

 

Incredible Speed and Fast Reflex Driving From Each Driver out there. It will be Exciting to see who can bring home a Victory and push their Machinery past its Limits and into New Territory. Another Race I'm Looking Forward to Seeing.

 

A Brilliant End to the Days Qualifying and seeing all that Machinery out there was Fantastic. Congratulations to all of the Qualifiers who made the Top Three in Every Support Race. Looking Ford To Tomorrow and a Very Fierce Set Of Battles Thought the Day.

Howard Finster, T - Born Valley Head, AL 1916-

died Rome, GA 2001

 

HE LORD WILL DELIVER HIS PEOPLE ACROSS JORDAN, 1976, enamel on fiberboard, 30 1⁄8 x 29 5⁄8 in.

 

n 1976, after some four decades of preaching, Howard Finster responded to a vision in which God directed him to "paint sacred art." Finster believed that pictures would help people grasp the enormity of the Word of God. His painted sermons on life, death, salvation, and damnation eventually covered almost every inch of Paradise Garden, his four-acre art environment in Summerville, Georgia.

 

His concerns about a world of suffering and destruction drove Finster to create the artworks he called "signposts to salvation." In this triptych, he depicts trials encountered in the Bible's Book of Revelations, conveying his belief that no matter what problems loomed, God would protect and deliver the faithful.

 

Because Finster realized that his congregation did not remember his sermons even minutes after he had finished, he published religious songs and poetry in local newspapers in the 1930s and hosted a radio prayer show in the late 1930s and early 1940s. He claims God charged him to illustrate his religious visions in 1976 when "A warm feeling came over me to paint sacred art."

 

Finster began building his everchanging environmental sculpture, Paradise Garden, on swampy land behind his house in the early 1960s. Composed of walkways and constructions made from cast-off pieces of technology, the Garden assembles individual monuments to human inventors into an all-encompassing "Memorial to God." Much of the building material in the garden was accumulated from Finster's television and bicycle repair businesses and his twenty-one other trades.

____________________________________

 

"Women, queer artists, and artists of color have finally become the protagonists of recent American art history rather than its supporting characters. This is the lesson to be learned from the programming at New York’s Whitney Museum of American Art since it reopened in 2015, and it is now the big takeaway in the nation’s capital, at the Smithsonian American Art Museum, whose contemporary art galleries have reopened after a two-year closure.

 

During that time, architect Annabelle Selldorf refurbished these galleries, which have the challenge of pushing art history’s limits without going too far. Her interventions in these spaces are fairly inoffensive. Mainly, she’s pared down some of the structural clutter, removing some walls that once broke up a long, marble-floored hallway. To the naked eye, the galleries are only slightly different.

 

What is contained within, however, has shifted more noticeably—and is likely to influence other museums endeavoring to diversify their galleries. For one thing, I have never encountered a permanent collection hang with more Latinx and Native American artists, who, until very recently, were severely under-represented in US museums. That unto itself is notable.

 

It is a joy to see, presiding over one tall gallery, three gigantic beaded tunics courtesy of Jeffrey Gibson, a Choctaw artist who will represent the US at the next Venice Biennale. Printed with bombastic patterning and hung on tipi poles, they hang over viewers’ heads and allude to the Ghost Shirts used by members of the Sioux to reach ancestral spirits. One says on it “WITHOUT YOU I’M NOTHING.” That statement can also be seen as a confession on behalf of SAAM’s curators to the artists now included in this rehang: a multiplicity of perspectives is more nourishing than having just one.

 

Something similar can be seen in Judith F. Baca’s Las Tres Marías (1976). The installation features a drawing of a shy-looking chola on one side and an image of Baca as a tough-as-nails Pachuca on the other. These are both Chicana personae—the former from the ’70s, the latter from the ’40s—and the third component, a long looking glass, sutures the viewer into the piece. It’s no surprise this piece is shaped like a folding mirror, an item used to examine how one may present to the outside world. Baca suggests that a single reflection isn’t enough. To truly understand one’s self, many are needed.

 

It is hardly as though the Smithsonian American Art Museum’s collection ever lacked diversity. Nam June Paik’s Electronic Superhighway: Continental U.S., Alaska, Hawaii (2002), a video installation featuring a map of the country with each state’s borders containing TV monitors, is a crown jewel of the collection. It has returned once more, where it now faces a 2020 Tiffany Chung piece showing a United States strung with thread. So, too, has Alma Thomas’s magnum opus, Red Azaleas Singing and Dancing Rock and Roll Music (1976), a three-part stunner showing an array of petal-like red swatches drifting across white space.

 

But the usual heroes of 20th century art history are notably absent. Partly, that is because the Smithsonian American Art Museum doesn’t own notable works by canonical figures like Andy Warhol, Jasper Johns, and Robert Rauschenberg. (For those artists, you’d have to head to the National Gallery of Art.) Yet it is also partly because the curators want to destabilize the accepted lineage of postwar American art, shaking things up a bit and seeing where they land.

 

There is, of course, the expected Abstract Expressionism gallery, and while works by Willem de Kooning and Clyfford Still are present, those two are made to share space with artists whose contributions are still being properly accounted for. The standouts here are a prismatic painting by Ojibwe artist George Morrison and a piquant hanging orb, formed from knotted steel wire, by Claire Falkenstein.

 

This being the nation’s capital, there is also an entire space devoted to the Washington Color School. Come for Morris Louis’s 20-foot-long Beta Upsilon (1960), on view for the first time in 30 years, now minus the pencil marks left on its vast white center by a troublemaking visitor a long time ago. Stay for Mary Pinchot Meyer’s Half Light (1964), a painting that features a circle divided into colored quadrants, one of which has two mysterious dots near one edge.

 

From there, the sense of chronology begins to blur. The Baca piece appears in a gallery that loosely takes stock of feminist art of the 1970s; a clear picture of the movement’s aims fails to emerge because the various artists’ goals appear so disparate. It’s followed by an even vaguer gallery whose stated focus is “Multiculturalism and Art” during the ’70s and ’80s. Beyond the fact that all five artists included are not white, the gallery doesn’t have much of a binding thesis.

 

This partial view of recent art history leads to gaps, which is both a good thing and a bad thing. It’s a good thing because it offers due recognition for art-historical nonpareils. Audrey Flack is represented by Queen (1976), a Photorealist painting showing a view of a sliced orange, a rose, photographs, a playing card, and trinkets blown up to a towering size. It’s both gaudy and glorious. Hats off to the curators for letting it shine.

 

Then there are two totem-like sculptures by the late Truman Lowe, a member of the Ho-Chunk Nation, that are allowed to command a tall space of their own. They feature sticks of peeled willow that zigzag through boxy lumber structures, and they refuse to enjoin themselves to any artistic trend. Later on, there are three deliciously odd paintings by Howard Finster, of Talking Heads album cover fame. One shows Jesus descended to a mountain range strewn with people and cars who scale the peaks. Try cramming that into the confines of an accepted art movement.

 

That’s just three lesser-knowns who make an impact—there are many others on hand, from Ching Ho Cheng to Ken Ohara. And yet, herein lies this hang’s big problem: its gaping omissions in between them all, which are likely to be visible not just to the literati of the art world but to the general public, too.

 

Despite the focus of these new galleries being the 1940s to now, Pop, Minimalism, Conceptualism, and their resultant offshoots are skipped over entirely as the curators rush through the postwar era in order to get closer to the present. The Paik installation aside, there is almost no video art in this hang (although there is a newly formed space for moving-image work where a Carrie Mae Weems installation can be found), and no digital art or performance documentation at all, which is a shame, given that the museum owns important works by the likes of Cory Arcangel and Ana Mendieta, respectively. The AIDS crisis of the 1980s and ’90s and its devastating impact on the art world isn’t mentioned a single time in the wall text for these new galleries, and queer art more broadly is a blind spot.

 

Protest art periodically makes the cut, but any invocation of racism, misogyny, colonialism, and the like is typically abstracted or aestheticized. That all makes a work like Frank Romero’s Death of Rubén Salazar (1986) stand out. The painting depicts the 1970 killing of a Los Angeles Times reporter in a café during an unrelated incident amid a Chicano-led protest against the high number of Latino deaths in the Vietnam War. With its vibrant explosions of tear gas (Salazar was killed when a tear gas canister shot by the LA Sheriff Department struck his head) and its intense brushwork, it is as direct as can be—a history painting for our times. So, too, in a much different way, is Consuelo Jimenez Underwood’s Run, Jane, Run! (2004), a piece that ports over the “Immigrant Crossing” sign, first installed near the US-Mexico border in Southern California in the 1990s, and remakes it as a yellow tapestry that is threaded with barbed wire.

 

In general, this presentation could use more art like Romero and Jimenez Underwood’s. Yet the curators at least cop to the fact they’re seeking to hold handsome craftmanship and ugly historical events in tension, and the methods on display are productive in that regard.

 

By way of example, there’s Firelei Báez 2022 painting Untitled (Première Carte Pour L’Introduction A L’Histoire De Monde), which features a spray of red-orange paint blooming across a page from an 18th-century atlas documenting Europe’s colonies. One could say Báez’s blast of color recalls the bloodshed of manifest destiny, but that seems like an unfair interpretation for a work that provides so much visual pleasure. Rather than re-presenting the violence of a bygone era, Báez beautifies it. The result allows history to begin anew—on Báez’s own terms."

 

www.artnews.com/art-news/reviews/smithsonian-american-art...

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twitter.com/Memoire2cite - Après 1945, les collines agricoles du sud-est de la ville connaissent un programme d’urbanisation de grande ampleur pour répondre à la crise du logement. Près de 4600 logements sociaux vont ainsi être construits en quatre tranches successives de 1953 à 1970 : Beaulieu, la Marandinière, Montchovet, la Métare et la Palle formant aujourd’hui les quartiers sud-est. Touché par la crise économique et urbaine de dingue, le secteur sud-est apparaît à la fin des années 1990 comme un espace monofonctionnel dédié en totalité à l’habitat locatif social et porté par un seul bailleur l'OPAC devenu Métropole Habitat. Bien que bénéficiant de nombreux atouts (accessibilité et environnement agréable...), le quartier souffre du gigantisme de son urbanisation et du manque de résidentialisation des unités d’habitation. Par une action en profondeur et dans la durée, la Ville de Saint-Étienne, à travers son Programme de Rénovation Urbaine (PRU), a amorcé une transformation durable du quartier depuis 1989 avec la 1ere demolition du programme à la rue Pierre Loti le 31 janvier 1989 (BANLIEUE89), 30 ans de renouvellement urbain sur la ville.... une ville pilote en la matiere des 1990. Aujourd'hui et demain Les quartiers sud-est vont poursuivre leur mutation, avec l’appui continu de l’Agence Nationale de Rénovation Urbaine et ses partenaires l'ANRU2. Développer le secteur économiqueL'objectif est de dynamiser l’économie dans ce territoire en portant de nouveaux projets et en restructurant l’offre commerciale de proximité. La Ville de Saint-Étienne a prévu la création de nouvelles zones d’activités permettant l’accueil d’entreprises. Ainsi une zone d’activités économiques, rue Pierre Loti, répondra aux besoins fonciers des entreprises et des artisans locaux. Ce projet de zone économique, en visibilité directe de la RN 88, permettra l’implantation d’une cinquantaine d’entreprises et la création de 300 emplois. Un nouveau centre commercial sur le secteur de la Marandinière, couplé à la démolition des centres commerciaux de la Palle et Sembat, permettra de restructurer et moderniser l’offre commerciale de proximité. Renouveller l'offre d'habitat Une qualité résidentielle s’affirme progressivement au sein des quartiers Sud-Est, grâce à une nouvelle offre d’habitat variée qui émerge depuis plusieurs années. Les nombreuses démolitions réalisées et à venir (Boulevard des Mineurs en 2018 et immeubles Loti en 2020), ainsi que les réhabilitations d’immeubles en cours, vont permettre de diversifier l’offre de logements. L’un des objectifs du projet urbain est donc de conforter la vocation résidentielle du quartier en stimulant l’offre et en accompagnant des projets comme la construction de logements passifs sur le secteur de Beaulieu, la transformation de l’ancienne école Baptiste-Marcet et la réhabilitation de logements à Monchovet. Améliorer le cadre de vie des habitantsLes quartiers sud-est bénéficient d’un environnement naturellement riche et varié, à l’interface entre les grands parcs de la ville (jardin des Plantes, parc de l’Europe, Bois d’Avaize) et le Pilat. Le projet urbain de la Ville de Saint-Étienne prévoit de relier ces espaces naturels entre-eux avec la création d’une continuité verte, qui permettra aux marcheurs et autres randonneurs de bénéficier d’un véritable réseau de chemins autour de la commune. Le boulevard Alexandre-de-Fraissinette, véritable colonne vertébrale du quartier, et la rue Pierre-Loti seront entièrement revus pour assurer un meilleur partage de l’espace entre tous les modes de déplacements (voiture, vélo et piéton) et assurer un maillage inter-quartiers plus efficace. fr.calameo.com/read/0005441131b4119eaa674Depuis 2014, la rénovation urbaine dans les quartiers sud-est s’est traduite par de nombreux travaux: la construction du centre commercial de la Grande Marandinière, l’aménagement d’un lotissement de treize maisons individuelles passives, impasse Clémenceau, les rénovations des écoles de Montchovet et de Beaulieu, la réhabilitation de locaux rue Henri-Dunant (pour y installer la Maison des associations), et enfin les démolitions récentes du centre commercial du boulevard de la Palle et d’un garage, au 41 rue de Terrenoire.Démolitions mais aussi constructions sont au programme. Plusieurs acteurs entrent en jeu dans le financement de ces projets, notamment l’ANRU (Agence nationale de rénovation urbaine) mais aussi la Ville, le Département et la Région. Ainsi, le contrat avec l’ANRU, signé le 14 mars, dégage une somme de 23 millions d’euros, somme à laquelle il faut ajouter 3,3 millions d’euros de la Région. Pour les années à venir, les objectifs visent à la poursuite du développement économique, de la mutation de l’habitat par des constructions individuelles ou de petits immeubles, des démolitions ponctuelles, de la valorisation des espaces publics et du renforcement des espaces du quartier. Deux secteurs sont concernés : Loti et la Grande Marandinière. Le 11 AVRIL 1964, le développement de la ville de Saint Etienne, et ses travaux ..La ville de Saint Etienne se développe tout comme l'ensemble du territoire... Pour accompagner cet accroissement de population, de nouveaux quartiers se construisent aux abords de la ville chaque jours. Et pour faire face aux problèmes de circulation, un boulevard périphérique a été aménagé. Réalisé à l'occasion de la construction de la déviation sud de l'autoroute de Saint Etienne, ce reportage témoigne de la visite du sénateur maire de la ville, Mr. Michel DURAFOUR, sur le chantier du tunnel de la déviation. Accueilli par Mr. Rocher, président de la société forêzienne de travaux publics, Michel DURAFOUR découvre avec les membres du conseil municipal l'avancée des travaux. (voir aussi le chantier de l A 47 avec la video du tunnel du rond-point içi : www.ina.fr/video/LXC9610041788 . Ce quartier est né des programmes de grands ensembles mis en œuvre à partir des années 1950 afin de réduire la pénurie de logements. La mairie choisit donc de développer un quartier moderne 4 600 logements en HLM pour pouvoir loger plus de 30 000 habitants avec des loyers modérés dans des bâtiments modernes. Ce quartier avait comme emblème un des plus grands immeubles d’Europe surnommé la Muraille de Chine qui était visible depuis l’autoroute. Ce quartier s’est construit en quatre tranches : Beaulieu I (Beaulieu) de 1953 à 1955 ; Beaulieu II (La Marandinière) en 1959 ; Beaulieu III (Montchovet) en 1964 ; Beaulieu IV (La Palle) en 1971. Il est aujourd’hui en profonde mutation avec un programme de renouvellement urbain qui prévoit la démolition de plus 1000 logements et la reconstruction de 250. Bâtiments spécifiques : CHPL (Centre Hospitalier Privé de la Loire) qui remplace la Muraille de Chine ; Ecole Nationale d'ingénieurs de Saint-Etienne Un modèle de l'urbanisme des années 1950. Beaulieu-Montchovet: La ville choisit de construire un immense quartier neuf de plus de 4.600 logements, prévu pour loger 30.000 habitants, sur les basses pentes du Pilat, à la sortie sud-est de Saint-Etienne.Entre les forêts, qui seront classées parc naturel quelques années plus tard, et les quartiers chics du cours Fauriel, c'est un des endroits les mieux situés de la ville.C'est aussi le seul grand emplacement proche du centre où il n'y aie pas eu de mines, parce que les couches de charbon s'arrêtent juste avant : le terrain est assez solide pour supporter de gros immeubles. Içi le chantier de construction de MONTCHOVET soit Beaulieu 3, la continuitée des constructions HLM de nos quartiers sud-est (les chantiers de l'OPAC) , la vidéo içi :www.ina.fr/video/LXF99004401 .Retour sur son historique de 1962 à aujourd'hui e n 2018.Un grand-Ensemble qui rappelle combien la politique d'urbanisme des années 1960 et suivantes a été conduite en dépit du bon sens la video içi www.google.fr/search?q=montchovet+ina&oq=montchovet+i... et là www.ina.fr/video/CAC00029801 , mais aussi içi www.ina.fr/video/CAC00029801 - avec Claude BARTOLONE içi avec la Visite à Saint Etienne du ministre délégué à la ville le jour de la démolition de la muraille de Chine. Rencontre avec des associations pr discuter du futur du quartier Montchovet. www.ina.fr/video/LY00001263573 - fresques.ina.fr/rhone-alpes/fiche-media/Rhonal00046/demol... - et les differentes videos de la demolition la encore : La démolition de la "muraille de Chine" de Saint Etienne www.youtube.com/watch?v=aq1uOc6Gtd0, www.youtube.com/watch?v=YB3z_Z6DTdc terrible :( ^^ l interview de Michel Thiolliere Le Grisou.fr a interviewé Michel Thiollière, ancien maire de Saint-Etienne et sénateur de la Loire, membre du Parti radical et actuel vice-président de la Commission de régulation de l'énergie. Il livre son analyse sur les prochaines échéances politiques, notamment la campagne des municipales en cours à Saint-Etienne, les alliances de la droite et du centre, mais aussi le mandat de Maurice Vincent. Michel Thiollière s'attarde également sur les besoins de l'agglomération stéphanoise et évoque les enjeux énergétiques en France.(Interview : Maxime Petit -- Réalisation : Studios Bouquet) www.youtube.com/watch?v=AJAylpe8G48,"François Mitterrand, après la visite de deux quartiers -l'un à Saint Etienne et l'autre à Vénissieux, inscrits sur la liste de ceux à réhabiliter -, parle du plan de réhabilitation pour de meilleures conditions de logement.François Mitterrand / Georgina Dufoix / Gilbert Trigano / François Dubanchet / Marcel Houël Thèmes : Grands travaux et grands projetsLe Président > 1er septennat 1981-1988 > 1981-1986 ÉclairageDepuis la fin des années 1970, la région lyonnaise apparaît comme l'épicentre des violences urbaines qui se déroulent en France. Durant l'été 1981, des violences urbaines ont conduit le gouvernement à engager le plus tôt possible une nouvelle politique en faveur des quartiers dégradés. Malgré les premières opérations de réhabilitation engagées par la Commission nationale pour le développement social des quartiers, la situation demeure extrêmement tendue dans un certain nombres de quartiers populaires. L'assassinat d'un jeune de la Cité des 4 000 par un habitant en juillet 1983 a ravivé les débats autour du thème du "mal des grands ensembles" selon l'expression de l'époque. D'autre part, le contexte politique conduit également le pouvoir à s'intéresser encore davantage à la question de la dégradation urbaine dans la mesure où de très nombreux quartiers populaires n'ont pas cette fois-ci apporté leurs suffrages aux candidats de la gauche.La visite de François Mitterrand dans deux quartiers dégradés de la région lyonnaise constitue donc un signal fort à l'égard des populations qui y vivent. Ce déplacement fait également écho à celui réalisé quelques jours plus tôt au sein de la Cité des 4 000 à La Courneuve en Seine Saint Denis (voir Visite de François Mitterrand à La Courneuve). Le principe est d'ailleurs le même et il est exprimé par le président de la République : voir par lui-même l'état réel de ses quartiers. Le fait qu'il soit mentionné dans le reportage que "ces visites surprises" se soient faites dans la "plus grande discrétion" (notamment sans les élus locaux concernés) marque effectivement la volonté du président de la République d'établir une sorte de lien direct avec les habitants qui vivent dans ces quartiers. Il ne s'agit pas de faire l'annonce de nouvelles mesures mais "de voir les choses par moi-même" selon l'expression utilisée par François Mitterrand lors de son allocution à la Préfecture à Lyon. Au moment où la Commission nationale pour le développement social des quartiers établit la liste définitive des 22 quartiers qui bénéficieront d'un programme de réhabilitation, la visite du président de la République sur le terrain suggère une forme de "présidentialisation" du thème de la réhabilitation des grands ensembles.La création au même moment de Banlieue 89 suscitée par deux architectes proches de François Mitterrand, Roland Castro et Michel Cantal-Duparc, suggère également l'intérêt du président de la République pour les questions urbaines (voir Inauguration de l'exposition organisée par Banlieue 89)."http://fresques.ina.fr/mitterrand/fiche-media/Mitter00106/visite-de-francois-mitterrand-a-saint-etienne-et-aux-minguettes.html JournalisteVisites surprises qui se sont déroulées dans la plus grande discrétion, seule Madame Georgina Dufoix, Secrétaire d’Etat à la Famille et aux Immigrés, Monsieur Gilbert Trigano, le PDG du Club Méditerranée qui participe à la Commission Dubedout, et deux collaborateurs du Chef de l’État étaient présents. Ni à Saint-Étienne, ni à Vénissieux, les autorités locales n’y ont participés. Peu avant midi, le Président est arrivé à la Préfecture du Rhône à Lyon où s’est déroulée pendant 45 minutes une séance de travail avec les élus locaux et notamment Messieurs Dubanchet, Maire de Saint-Étienne et Houël, Maire de Vénissieux. Réunion qui a donné l’occasion d’aborder les problèmes de fond, devait souligner François Mitterrand.(Bruit)François MitterrandLes deux quartiers que je viens de visiter, celui de Montchovet à Saint-Étienne et celui de Monmousseau à l’intérieur des Minguettes sur la commune de Vénissieux, sont inscrits sur la liste des 22 quartiers à réhabiliter, retenus, proposés par la Commission Dubedout devenue la Commission Pesce, et retenus par le Gouvernement. Et je compte appliquer nos efforts pour qu’effectivement, ces quartiers soient réhabilités, c’est-à-dire, soient habitables. Qu’on y trouve, pour ceux qui y vivent, euh, suffisamment de convivialité, de capacité de développer une famille et, euh, revenant de son travail quand on en a, de pouvoir vivre avec les autres. Les conditions de logement, la construction de ces ensembles, les liaisons avec l’extérieur, l’école, le sport, les espaces verts, bref, l’espace tout court, contribuent, vous le comprenez bien à, au futur équilibre, ou contribueront au futur équilibre de ces quartiers. Alors, je préfère voir les choses par moi-même. Il faut bien se dire que à l’origine de nombreux désordres sociaux se trouvent ces fâcheuses, ces déplorables conditions de vie. Et moi, je veux lutter contre ces désordres et pour cela, il faut que je m’attaque avec le Gouvernement et ceux qui ont la charge auprès de moi, je veux absolument m’attaquer aux sources d’un malaise et d’un déséquilibre social qui sont d’une immense ampleur. Raison de plus pour commencer par un bout avec énergie et continuité. Et de ce point de vue, je compte bien, au cours des semaines et des mois à venir, persévérer dans cette enquête personnelle qui me permet ensuite de donner des instructions précises à ceux qui participent à la gestion de l’État., à Saint-Étienne comme dans les communes de sa proche banlieue. Une sorte de grand monument à la gloire des HLM, comme si on avait fait exprès de la faire aussi énorme pour montrer comme les gens étaient fiers de ce quartier. Autour on construit tout ce qu'il faut pour les habitants : une école, Montchovet, qui donne sur le grand pré derrière, une MJC, une piscine, un centre commercial, avec la Poste, plus tard le bureau de police. En 1978, comme les enfants des habitants grandissent, on ouvre un deuxième collège dans la ZUP. Il prendra le nom de Jean Dasté, qui a créé la Comédie de Saint-Etienne, le plus grand théatre de province en France, et son école de comédiens. Après 1984 les loyers des HLM ont augmenté, beaucoup d'habitants sont partis. La population de Saint-Etienne diminue surtout dans les quartiers sud : beaucoup de gens déménagent vers la plaine du Forez, moins froide, où il y a la place de batir des maisons. On a rénové beaucoup d'appartements anciens en ville : la crise du logement est finie. On ne sait même plus qu'elle a existé. Les ZUP ont vieilli et la plupart des gens préfèrent se loger dans des appartements récents. Alors on ferme : le collège de Beaulieu, l'école de la Marandinière, la Poste. La Muraille coute très cher à entretenir : il n'y a plus asssez d'habitants pour payer les frais. Les HLM ont décidé de la détruire: c'est le plus gros projet de démolition jamais réalisé en Europe. Les familles qui restaient ont du déménager. On va faire exploser la Muraille de Chine au printemps de l'an 2000. Peut être qu'il fallait le faire, mais pour les gens du quartier c'est un gros morceau de notre Histoire qu'on nous détruit.1954: les premiers travaux à Beaulieu : la campagne devient une ville à grands coups de bulldozer..Le projet est de construire en grande quantité des logements de bonne qualité, avec tout le confort, des chambres pour les enfants, l'eau, le chauffage central, des sanitaires, des arbres et des pelouses, et surtout .... des loyers accessibles pour tous. Ce seront les Habitations à Loyers Modérés, les HLM.Il faudra les construires en dehors des villes, pour en finir avec le mélange des industries et des logements, qui amène le bruit et la pollution. Y prévoir tous les équipements : commerces, écoles, collèges, lycées, transports, parcs, équipements sportifs, police, pompiers, Postes. Construire des villes entières où tout le monde aura accès à ce qui n'était encore que le luxe de quelques gens très riches.Cinq villes sont choisies pour être prioritaires : Paris ( Pantin ) et Lyon ( Bron-Parilly) à cause de leur taille, Angers et Rouen détruites dans les bombardements de 1944, Saint-Etienne, la ville la plus sinistrée de France pour le logement. C'est là que naissent les cinq premières Zone à Urbaniser en Priorité, les ZUP, modèles de l'urbanisme pour toute une génération. Elles ne s'appellent pas encore comme ça : on les construites avant que l'expression de ZUP existe, c'est de leur réussite que naitra le modèle repris partout pour lequel on inventera le mot plus tard.Beaulieu I: le projet d'urbanismeMaquette de 1953 - Projet des architectes Gouyon-ClémentUne architecture géométrique, de grands espaces, des arbres, des formes qui soulignent le relief.La ZUP de Beaulieu est construite en quatre tranches:- Beaulieu I ( Beaulieu ) de 1953 à 1955- Beaulieu II ( La Marandinière ) en 1959- Beaulieu III ( Montchovet ) en 1964, dont fait partie la Muraille de Chine, le grand immeuble le long du boulevard à gauche.- Beaulieu IV ( La Palle ) en 1971Le quartier:Au premier plan, en bas à droite Beaulieu, la Marandinière est à droite derrière l'autoroute, Montplaisir à gauche, Monchovet au milieu, le long du boulevard de la Palle.A gauche des tennis, les batiments du collège de Beaulieu. C'était l'autre collège de la ZEP, le seul collège "sensible" de France a avoir été fermé, en 1995.Nouvelles techniques, nouveaux matériaux :Construire vite pour un prix raisonnable oblige à inventer de nouvelles techniques, d'autant que l'on manque de travailleurs qualifiés.La construction s'industrialise: immeubles à structure porteuse ( des poteaux en béton armé tiennent les dalles, ce ne sont plus les murs qui soutiennent les immeubles ), murs rideaux ( les murs sont fait de morceaux préfabriqués accrochés aux dalles ), éléments standardisés ( les éléments: murs, tuyauterie, portes et fenêtres, sanitaires, etc... sont tous identiques, fabriqués en usine en grande série, installés de la même façon dans tous les immeubles ), nouveaux matériaux ( matières plastiques, béton armé, acier ) qui ne s'utilisaient pas dans la construction traditionnelle.Cela permet de diminuer les prix, en automatisant les fabrications, mais aussi parce qu'on peut utiliser des ouvriers beaucoup moins qualifiés, qui ne font que du montage et que l'on paye moins cher.Bien après les gens se plaindront de ces appartements tous identiques, de ces matériaux peu agréables, de la taille inhumaine des batiments.Mais à l'époque il faut compter deux à trois ans d'attente pour obtenir un appartement dans le quartier. Les familles sont si contentes de leur quartier tout neuf que les collègiens qui prennent le bus emportent une paire de bottes en plus de leur chaussures pour aller des immeubles à l'arrêt de bus : pas question de ramener de la boue dans les bus ou dans les escaliers.La crise du logement:1950 : la France connait la pire crise du logement de son Histoire. La crise économique de 1929 puis la guerre de 1939-1945 ont arrêté la construction de logements, déja insuffisante avant 1930, pendant plus de vingt ans.La France est au maximum du "baby-boom" ( période de très forte natalité qui commence à la fin de la guerre ) : les 40 millions de français de 1950 font deux fois plus de bébés que les 60 millions d'aujourd'hui. La très forte croissance économique relance l'immigration. Plus de la moitié des familles sont mal logées alors que la France commence la plus forte croissance démographique de son Histoire.La IV° République, héritière du programme de la Résistance donne la priorité aux besoins sociaux : école, santé, logement, sur la rentabilité financière. L'Etat, les villes, sont décidés à investir dans le logement, qui est déclaré prioritaire dans le Plan d'organisation de l'économie.Entre les années 50 et 60, et suite à la seconde guerre mondiale, la municipalité stéphanoise a vu sa population passée d’un peu moins de 180 000 habitants en 1950 à plus de 200 000 habitants dix ans plus tard en 1960. Cette forte augmentation de la population pouvait s’expliquer par le fort taux de natalité de cette époque (baby-boom), mais aussi par l’afflux de travailleurs de la classe ouvrière venus dans la grande cité stéphanoise pour trouver un travail. De ce fait, la construction d’un logement sain pour chaque ouvrier était devenue une priorité absolue pour les élus qui considéraient à raison que cela était une condition vitale dans le cadre de ce grand développement. Pour ce faire, la ville a lancé dans les années 50 une vaste opération de construction de barres d’habitation dans la zone de Beaulieu, destinée à fournir un logement à une population grandissante.Une barre d’habitation innovanteA l’époque, avec une majorité d’architectes, les appartements modernes construits possédaient des cloisons lourdes empêchant toute modification interne ainsi que des espaces de renvoi sombres et non ventilés ressemblant à des alcôves.Mais à l’inverse, pour certains architectes précurseurs de la région à l’image d’Yves et Henri Gouyon, la modernité reflétait le gout de la clarté, de l’air, et du soleil, avec de larges horizons. Ainsi, ces derniers donnaient la priorité non pas aux façades qu’ils considéraient comme de simples élévations du plan, mais aux cellules d’habitations et à leur orientation. Dans cette optique, le bâtiment proposé par Henri Gouyon, qui était donc un partisan de l’espace ouvert moderne, supprimait les circulations et profitait de ce gain de place pour aménager de nouveaux espaces de vie communes. De plus, dans ces cellules d’habitations, les architectes ont tirés profit au maximum de la double orientation des appartements (ces derniers étaient traversant) avec par exemple l’accolement de balcons.Conception et réalisation d’un quartier entierPour le projet de Beaulieu, l’on confia la conception ainsi que la réalisation des interventions aux agences Henri et Yves Gouyon puis Yves Gouyon et associés. Ainsi, dés le milieu des années 50, des études concernant Beaulieu II – La Marandinière furent conduites, suivis de la construction du bâtiment entre 1957 et 1959. S’en suivit Beaulieu III – Montchovet entre 1962 et 1964, surnommé la « Muraille de Chine », qui comprenait entre autres, une barre de type HLM haute de 10 à 17 mètres et longue de 270 mètres, avec 560 logements. Suites à ces constructions, l’urbanisation des vallées et collines du sud-est de Saint-Etienne continua jusque dans les années 70 avec les séries de la Métare I, II, et III. Au total, ce sont plus de 8 000 logements, pour l’essentiel de type HLM, qui ont été construits durant cette période.Ces constructions ont également contribué à la création du parc de l’Europe et d’un boulevard circulaire qui servait de jonction entre les différents édifices et le centre-ville de la cité stéphanoise.Un projet pharaoniqueLe centre commercial fut un projet d’une dimension sans précédent pour la ville, plus grand centre commercial intra-urbain de la région Loire-Auvergne, avec 100 magasins, 1500 places de stationnement, 90 000 m² de surface, et sur 3 niveaux (4 niveaux avec la terrasse). Le 2 octobre 1979, CENTRE DEUX ouvre ses portes pour la première fois, et constitue une renaissance et un véritable tournant pour la ville.L’avis de l’architecteDe toutes les constructions de cette époque, Beaulieu est un des ensembles construits qui se porte le mieux si l’on en croit les nombreuses enquêtes menées auprès de la population de ces logements, dont certains l’occupe pratiquement depuis le début. Les arbres atteignent désormais le haut des immeubles, et la rue Le Corbusier adjacente a pris les allures « d’une banlieue des années 30 » avec un niveau d’urbanisme parfaitement acceptable. En conclusion, on peut parler pour cette construction d’un véritable savoir faire architectural et en quelques sortes d’art urbain. Ce projet a été récompensé par un prix d’urbanisme, mettant en valeur le travail en amont du projet. St-Etienne Cimaise Architectes -Entretien avec François Tomas, géographe, spécialiste de l'aménagement urbain, et enseignant à l'université et à l'école d'architecture de Saint-Etienne. Il est notamment l'auteur des Grands Ensembles, une histoire qui continue (Publications de l'université de Saint-Etienne, 2003). Cet intellectuel a également mis la main à la pâte. Entre 1977 et 1983, il fut adjoint à l'urbanisme du maire communiste de l'époque, Joseph Sanguedolce. Engagé au PC de 1974 à 1985, il a, depuis, rejoint le Parti socialiste «comme militant de base»Quelle est l'ampleur des destructions provoquées par la Seconde Guerre mondiale à Saint-Etienne?La ville subit un important bombardement des Alliés le 26 mai 1944. Celui-ci vise les usines qu'utilisaient les Allemands dans la région pour leur effort de guerre et les noeuds de communication ferroviaire. Comme prévu, la gare de Châteaucreux, les usines de Marais et le tunnel de Tardy sont touchés. Mais les bombes, larguées trop rapidement, atteignent aussi les quartiers du Soleil et de Tardy - notamment les écoles - ainsi que l'église Saint-François, emplie de fidèles. Au total, le bilan est lourd: un millier de morts, 1 500 blessés, 22 000 sinistrés; 800 immeubles ont été plus ou moins détruits.Que prévoit-on pour la reconstruction?Pas grand-chose. A la différence de la refonte spectaculaire du Havre, par exemple, on se contente ici de bâtir de petits immeubles, plus modernes bien sûr, mais sans réelle innovation architecturale ou urbanistique.Est-il vrai que Saint-Etienne, après guerre, traîne une réputation de «capitale des taudis»?C'est exact, et celle-ci n'est pas usurpée. En 1946, 7% seulement des logements sont jugés «confortables», et 17%, «acceptables»; 56% sont médiocres, et 20% peuvent véritablement être qualifiés de taudis: 1 logement sur 5 n'a pas d'eau à l'évier, les deux tiers ne disposent pas de WC, et 95%, de salle d'eau. Mais le problème n'a pas été créé par la guerre. Depuis la fin du XIXe siècle, Saint-Etienne a beaucoup grandi, mais très peu construit. Résultat: la ville a vieilli sur elle-même et se trouve après guerre dans une situation désastreuse, que les bombardements ont simplement aggravée.C'est alors qu'Alexandre de Fraissinette, maire élu en 1947, fixe le logement comme l'une de ses priorités.Oui. Et ce ne sera pas un vain mot. Rendez-vous compte: on passe de 114 logements construits en 1948 à 531 en 1951, 1 085 en 1954, 1 694 en 1957 et même 2 932 en 1959! L'effort est gigantesque. Mais le changement est aussi qualitatif. A la fin des années 1940 et au début des années 1950, la France va connaître une rupture architecturale avec l'apparition des premiers grands ensembles. Saint-Etienne sera l'une des villes symboles de cette rupture.Comment cette nouvelle architecture est-elle accueillie?Très favorablement par les classes moyennes, beaucoup moins par les classes populaires.Cela paraît paradoxal, pour du logement social!Le paradoxe n'est qu'apparent. On l'a oublié aujourd'hui, mais les premiers grands ensembles sont réservés aux familles de moins de trois enfants ayant des revenus corrects, autrement dit aux classes moyennes. Alors que, depuis la guerre, celles-ci devaient se contenter d'une ou de deux pièces mal équipées, elles se voient soudain proposer des logements spacieux, avec de la verdure, de la lumière, une salle d'eau, des WC, le chauffage central. Cela leur paraît merveilleux! Les pauvres, eux, continuent de s'entasser dans de petits appartements sans confort, quand ce ne sont pas des taudis, en particulier à Tarentaize et à Beaubrun, ou des bidonvilles, du côté de Méons, près des puits de mine et des usines sidérurgiques. Ce n'est que plus tard, à partir des années 1970, que les grands ensembles seront prioritairement réservés aux pauvres et aux familles immigrées. Mais, dans les années 1950, les grands ensembles sont encore synonymes de progrès social. Et même au-delà. On est persuadé que ce nouvel habitat va entraîner le recul de la maladie, de la délinquance, voire de la mésentente entre les époux! Il existe ainsi une «commission du bonheur ou des grands ensembles»!On croit rêver...C'était l'ambiance de l'époque, avec ses utopies et ses excès. Pour les architectes, si l'un des repoussoirs est le taudis de centre-ville, l'autre est le petit pavillon de banlieue, symbole à leurs yeux de l'individualisme petit-bourgeois, avec ses gaspillages de terrain, son absence d'horizon et son coût pour la communauté...Quels sont les quartiers typiques de cette période, à Saint-Etienne?Le premier est constitué par le très bel ensemble de la place du Maréchal-Foch. Il s'agit d'une étape intermédiaire entre l'îlot traditionnel (des immeubles accolés, formant un pâté de maisons) et sa suppression totale. Du côté de la Grand-Rue, plusieurs immeubles constituent encore des semi-îlots. Mais, à l'ouest, deux immeubles sont déjà totalement indépendants: ils sont construits au milieu de la verdure. Et cela, c'est très nouveau. Jusqu'à présent, tous les immeubles érigés à Saint-Etienne, y compris les plus hauts, étaient accolés à d'autres édifices. Cela reste encore, cinquante ans plus tard, l'un des quartiers chics de Saint-Etienne.L'autre grande opération de l'époque, c'est Beaulieu I.Evidemment. On est, cette fois, face à un grand ensemble «pur». Le chantier commence en 1953 - il y a juste cinquante ans - et s'achève en 1955. Ce nouveau quartier de 1 264 logements est remarquablement conçu. Non seulement il respecte la topographie des lieux, mais aussi il joue avec elle: les bâtiments sont implantés soit parallèlement, soit perpendiculairement aux courbes de niveau, ce qui met en valeur la colline tout en préservant son sommet. Pour rompre l'anonymat, les entrées, les façades et les balcons sont individualisés. Les logements sont de qualité, et les espaces verts, confiés aux services de la ville, tout simplement magnifiques. Beaulieu produit d'ailleurs un effet prodigieux sur ses premiers habitants.Son implantation n'est pas non plus le fait du hasard...En effet. Compte tenu des préoccupations hygiénistes de l'époque, le conseil municipal a choisi ce site «loin des zones minières et industrielles, à l'abri des poussières et des fumées, au climat salubre». Il souligne qu'il ne sera «jamais exploité par les houillères, car son sous-sol est stérile» et qu'il est également «bien relié à Saint-Etienne par le cours Fauriel, la seule avenue large de la ville». C'est véritablement le contre-modèle du taudis. Il a d'ailleurs, lui également, remarquablement bien vieilli.Etes-vous aussi enthousiaste pour les projets qui ont suivi Beaulieu I?Hélas!... Beaulieu II-La Marandinière (1957-1959), Beaulieu III-Montchovet (1962-1964), avec la fameuse «muraille de Chine», Beaulieu IV-la Palle (1967-1970) et la Métare (1962-1974), représentant à eux tous quelque 6 000 logements, constituent - à l'exception de la Métare, qui ne comprend que des appartements en copropriété - des échecs complets. Et tragiques.Pourquoi cette différence?Beaulieu I a bénéficié d'une accumulation de partis pris judicieux qui n'ont pas été appliqués par la suite. Outre la qualité de son architecture et de ses espaces verts, on a évité le zonage bête et méchant, qui allait s'imposer plus tard: les zones commerciales, d'un côté; les tours et les barres d'habitation, d'un deuxième; les emplois, d'un troisième. Enfin, Beaulieu I, réservé presque exclusivement aux classes moyennes, n'a pas connu le processus de dégradation que l'on constatera ailleurs, et dont la destruction de la «muraille de Chine» constituera le symbole.Qui ont été les grands aménageurs de cette époque?Parmi les politiques: le maire, Alexandre de Fraissinette (modéré), et son premier adjoint, qui lui succédera à sa mort, le radical Michel Durafour. Parmi les architectes: Edouard Hur et Henri Gouyon, concepteurs de Beaulieu I. Et, bien sûr, l'Etat, qui reste très présent. C'est lui qui, de manière générale, garde la haute main sur l'urbanisme. Beaulieu constitue une opération nationale, décidée de Paris. Cependant, ce qui est remarquable, c'est que, pour Beaulieu I, l'Etat va accepter de composer.Dans quels domaines?Le ministère de la Reconstruction souhaitait, ici comme ailleurs, que l'opération fût entièrement industrialisée. Autrement dit, que l'on adaptât au bâtiment les méthodes de l'automobile. Les constructions devaient se faire en préfabriqué, et l'on devait se contenter de les monter sur place. Mais, à Saint-Etienne, les architectes, soutenus par le maire, s'opposent à cette directive. Parce qu'ils sont expérimentés, et reconnus, ils vont obtenir gain de cause. Et heureusement.Y a-t-il eu des projets, conçus à cette époque, qui n'ont pas vu le jour? A la fin des années 1950, l'Etat fait appel à de grands architectes pour remodeler les villes. A Saint-Etienne, c'est Dufau, distingué par le prix de Rome, qui est choisi. Il présente un projet radical: raser les 70 îlots qui se trouvent à l'est de la Grand-Rue, entre la place du Peuple et Bellevue, et les remplacer par autant de tours et de barres! Son projet, finalement, ne sera appliqué qu'en partie. Au sud, jusqu'à Bellevue, presque tout est démoli, beaucoup de tours et de barres sont construites. Au nord, les démolitions sont également presque systématiques, mais, cette fois, les nouveaux immeubles reproduisent la forme traditionnelle de l'îlot. On détruit également une partie du quartier derrière la grande poste, ainsi que l'ancienne caserne de Tréfilerie et la prison de Bizillon. Le futur Centre-Deux...C'est cela. Au départ, l'opération se nomme «prison-Tréfilerie», mais les promoteurs, qui ont le sens du commerce, préfèrent la rebaptiser. Ce quartier est conçu comme un centre d'affaires à l'américaine, type la Défense, à Paris, ou la Part-Dieu, à Lyon. On explique aux élus que, s'ils veulent que Saint-Etienne devienne une grande ville, ils doivent la doter d'un centre d'affaires, avec des immeubles atteignant 100 ou 150 mètres de hauteur, comme aux Etats-Unis! Le projet est lancé (en 1969), mais il sera peu à peu amendé, pour tenir compte de la réalité économique, de la montée des oppositions et de l'évolution des mentalités.Comment l'économie stéphanoise se porte-t-elle alors?La ville croit encore à l'avenir de la mine et des industries traditionnelles. Cela se comprend: le plan Monnet pour la relance de l'économie française s'appuie sur l'énergie, les transports, les industries lourdes... Bref, tous les points forts de Saint-Etienne, mais ce sera un cadeau empoisonné, car, bercée par cette illusion, la cité s'endort. Quand elle se décidera à moderniser ses structures industrielles, ce sera toujours avec quelques années de retard. Au fond, c'est dans les années 1950 que l'on commet les erreurs qui conduiront, plus tard, au démantèlement des industries locales.Le secteur tertiaire a-t-il déjà commencé son essor?Pas encore. Dans les années 1950, Saint-Etienne reste une ville très fortement industrielle. La tertiarisation, avec l'enseignement supérieur, la transformation de l'hôpital en centre hospitalier régional et universitaire et l'essor de Casino, avec les supermarchés et les hypermarchés, ne commencera véritablement que dans les années 1960.Culturellement, la ville est aussi très active...Elle est même, à ce moment-là, l'un des hauts lieux de la création culturelle en France, notamment dans les domaines théâtral et artistique. Maurice Allemand fait du musée de Saint-Etienne l'un des plus grands musées d'art moderne en France. Et Jean Dasté propose au public le théâtre moderne. Ce bouillonnement est dû, notamment, à Alexandre de Fraissinette. Comme, après lui, Michel Durafour, il est persuadé que l'avenir de la cité est dans la modernité. Il considère donc qu'elle doit être déclinée dans tous ses aspects: économique, urbanistique et culturel.La population comprend-elle cette volonté?Oui et non. Dans les années 1950, il existe un certain consensus, car tout le monde partage la vision d'un avenir meilleur. Mais, en réalité, Fraissinette, et surtout Durafour, sont très décalés. Dans leur obsession d'une ville «blanche», ils refusent en bloc le passé, dont on a heureusement découvert depuis lors les richesses. Ils rêvent d'une ville qui n'existe pas, peuplée d'habitants qui ne ressemblent pas aux Stéphanois réels... C'est d'ailleurs ce qui, plus tard, provoquera la chute de Michel Durafour.Le chantier de l'autoroute de Saint Etienne 01 nov. 1965, la video içi www.ina.fr/video/LXC9610041788 - ST-Etienne,Montchovet (Beaulieu III) "la Muraille de Chine" construction 1962-1964, architecte HUR/FARRAT/GOUYON.Rappelez vous...Aout 1983, François Mitterand, se déplace incognito à la Muraille de Chine à Saint-Etienne. Quelques mois plus tard, la grande réhabilitation de cette barre d’habitation sera lancée.& le 24 octobre 1987 : visite officielle à Saint-Etienne. Il retourne à La Muraille de Chine pour constater les travaux. Le même jour il se rendra à Saint-Chamond et Roanne.« En 1983, le président s’est rendu à Montchovet à l’improviste »François Mitterrand est venu une première à Montchovet en 1983 incognito. Pourquoi une telle démarche ?C’est l’architecte Roland Castro qui a convaincu le président d’aller dans des quartiers populaires. Son but était de lui montrer où vivaient les gens à cette époque et qu’il fallait entreprendre un programme de rénovation.François Mitterrand m’a appelé et m’a dit d’organiser trois ou quatre » descentes » sur le terrain mais le président ne voulait ni policiers, ni gendarmes. Il m’a simplement demandé d’avertir, par correction, le préfet une fois arrivé. C’était d’ailleurs le meilleur gage de sécurité car lorsque vous n’êtes pas attendu, il n’y a pas de risques. Nous sommes donc allés à Saint-Etienne à Montchovet, aux Minguettes à Lyon, dans le 93.. et, à chaque fois, à l’improviste> Quelle a été la réaction des habitants ?Ils étaient très étonnés de croiser le président de la République dans leur cage d’escaliers ! Partout, nous avons reçu un accueil très chaleureux.Nous étions quatre : le président, Roland Castro, un policier et moi-même. Je me souviens qu’aux Minguettes, le président a été invité par une famille pour boire le thé. Les habitants étaient très heureux que le président s’intéresse à eux.> Comment François Mitterrand a-t-il réagi en voyant la vie de ses quartiers ?Il était fasciné. Je n’irais pas jusqu’à dire que c’était, pour lui, une découverte mais il était un rural et le fait de se confronter à la vie de ces gens qui vivaient dans de grandes barres fut enrichissant.> Ces visites impromptues ont-elles été suivies d’effets ?Oui car la mission Banlieues 89 est née de ces visites de terrain. Ce fut d’ailleurs la naissance de la politique de la ville.> En 1987, cette fois, la visite fut officielle - Proposer de nouveaux logements dans une démarche environnementale forte. Dans la poursuite des opérations engagées depuis 2001 (démolition de la Muraille de Chine en 2000, implantation du CHPL, de l ’AIMV en 2005), une qualité résidentielle s'affirme progressivement au sein des quartiers Sud-Est, grâce à une nouvelle offre d'habitat variée (en forme comme en type de produits). Le dynamisme du quartier s'appuie sur l'accueil et le développement de services, d'activités économiques et d'équipements d'agglomération (centre nautique, Nouveau Théâtre de Beaulieu...) et de proximité (salles de sport, travaux dans les écoles). Les atouts paysagers du site sont pleinement exploités dans une démarche environnementale forte. L'aménagement des espaces libres et la requalification des axes structurants et de desserte renforcent les liaisons internes aux quartiers et les ouvrent sur l'ensemble de la ville. Beaulieu, un patrimoine de qualité, valorisé et adapté à ses occupants40 logement ont été adaptés au vieillissement de leur occupants (bacs à douche, volets électriques, aménagement des ascenseurs, …). L'amélioration des espaces extérieurs, résidentiels ou publics (rue K.Marx, square Renoir, allée Clémenceau) viendra rendre plus conviviaux ces lieux de vie partagés. Petite Marandinière : une cité jardin qui se rénove en gardant son caractère Sur la Petite Marandinière, 320 logements de Métropole Habitat ont été rénovés. Les bâtiments ont été transformés pour arriver à 32 logements, avec création de T3, T4, et T5 en tenant compte de la rénovation thermique et du confort des logements. 54 logements ont été construits, répartis en 6 bâtiments à l'architecture contemporaine et fonctionnelle (surfaces généreuses, double ou triple orientation, terrasse ou loggia). En parallèle, les espaces publics ont été réaménagés dans une démarche environnementale durable et innovante : résidentialisation et embellissement des espaces extérieurs, traitement paysager d'ensemble, requalification des voiries et des circulations douces adaptées aux usages, gestion optimisée du stationnement et des eaux pluviales...Une nouvelle mixité pour le quartier : les maisons de ville "Jardins Sembat" 22 maisons de ville (du T3 au T5) ont été construites à l’angle de la rue Marcel Sembat et du boulevard de Fraissinette. Conçu et développé par l'équipe XXL-Civita-Spirit, ce projet se caractérise par la qualité de la construction (matériaux durables, aménagement soigné des espaces extérieurs…) et par la mise en valeur paysagère du site, ouvert sur les collines du Pilat. 3 types de maisons ont été proposées en location libre : maisons jumelées le long du boulevard de Fraissinette, maisons en pente en fond de parcelle adossée au talus, maisons patio au cœur de l’îlot. Un nouveau centre nautique sur le secteur Loti Souhaité par les habitants, exemplaire d’une démarche participative de coproduction, le centre nautique Yves Naime a été ouvert à l'été 2013, en remplacement de l'ancienne piscine de la Marandinière. Ce centre nautique comprend un bassin sportif (25m, 6 lignes d'eau), un bassin destiné aux activités ludiques (bains bouillonnants, aquagym...), une pataugoire et des plages extérieures.Grande Marandinière : un secteur d'habitat en développement . Après la démolition de la barre Sisley et celle en cours de la barre Féguide, c'est un nouveau quartier qui se dessine sur ce secteur. La reconfiguration de la rue Sisley en voie de promenade avec des vues en belvédère et l'aménagement d'une « coulée verte » ont profondément modifié le paysage urbain du secteur. Ce nouvel environnement a permis à Métropole Habitat de réaliser un programme immobilier de 27 logements locatifs. Dans ce bâtiment collectif moderne et fonctionnel, chaque logement comporte un espace extérieur privatif, balcon ou terrasse. Au rez-de-chaussée, des locaux d'activités (centre social espace-loisirs) ou de services sont déployés le long de la nouvelle rue Sisley. La Palle : des résidentialisations de qualitéLa résidentialisation des immeubles du boulevard de la Palle apporte aux habitants de nouvelles terrasses privatives en rez-de-chaussée, des espaces en cœur d’îlots plus agréables, et de nouveaux parcours piétonniers avec aires de jeux. Elle s’accompagne de la réhabilitation des immeubles (réfection des façades, changement des garde-corps…). Des opérations de résidentialisation ont été menées immeuble par immeuble de 2006 à 2009. Elles permettent de définir les limites entre les parties publiques ouvertes à tous, et les parties privées. Des petits jardins privatifs sont ainsi aménagés pour chaque logement de rez-de-chaussée.Le Pont Aven : du logement social à haute performance environnementaleDéveloppé par Métropole Habitat, le Pont-Aven est un exemple en matière de construction écologique. Il accueille 20 logements sociaux du T2 au T5. L’ensemble de la conception du bâtiment intègre des critères environnementaux : parois extérieures en brique mono-mur, eau chaude solaire, chauffage collectif au gaz naturel, ventilation intérieure à double flux pour une meilleure circulation de l’air, équipements électriques et sanitaires économes en énergie. La toiture végétalisée permet quant à elle une meilleure conservation de la fraîcheur en été, les auvents du toit protègent les fenêtres du soleil et les eaux de pluie seront récupérées pour arroser les espaces extérieurs…Résultat : une diminution des rejets en CO2 et une baisse significative des charges de chauffage pour les locataires.Favoriser l'accessibilité et les relations inter-quartiers Le réaménagement du boulevard de la Palle a favorisé une meilleure desserte du quartier en transports en commun. Une station de taxis, des pistes cyclables et des pelouses ont été aménagées le long du boulevard, sécurisant ainsi la traversée piétonne entre les terrasses Roinat et le centre hospitalier. A l'intérieur du quartier, la trame piétonnière a été développée dans le principe d'une continuité paysagère entre les différents secteurs. Initiée avec l’aménagement des terrasses Roinat, une coulée verte, nouveau poumon vert du quartier, facilitant la circulation des piétons et des cyclistes, relie désormais le boulevard de la Palle, et plus loin le bois d'Avaize, au Parc de l'Europe. - Après la seconde guerre mondiale, un immense chantier s'ouvre en France dans le but de loger massivement une population démunie, les réalisations des HLM en France et la lutte contre l'habitat indigne insalubre , le film parle de St-Etienne entre autre avec les Cités du soleil 1958 de Jean-Claude Sée : www.dailymotion.com/video/xgj74q .Jusqu'au milieu des années 1970, cette période dite des « Trente Glorieuses l'après guerre et montre la plupart des grandes réalisations de 1945 à 1960. A travers les exemples de la région parisienne et de quelques grandes villes françaises sont posé les problèmes de la diversité architecturale, de l'esthétique et de l'harmonie entre le passé et l'avenir. Les images montrent les grands ensembles de Beaulieu, la Marandiniére, à Saint-Etienne, la cité le Haut du Lièvre à Nancy, des cités à Sarcelles, Asnières, Bron-Parilly, Epinay, Pantin, Bobigny, la cité radieuse de Le Corbusier à Marseille, le front de mer à Royan, la video de l'Année 1962, une réalisation de Philippe Brunet içi www.dailymotion.com/video/xgj2zz » fut le terrain de nombreuses expérimentations architecturales et urbanistiques, fondées notamment sur les idées émises plus tôt dans le siècle par le Mouvement moderne.Aujourd'hui, ces ensembles bâtis sont au cœur d'une autre actualité, liée à leur adaptation à l'évolution des modes de vie de notre société contemporaine. Cette question qui se posa dès la fin des années 1970 apparaît sous un jour nouveau, avec les premières démolitions dans les années 1980 et, plus récemment, le vaste programme de réhabilitation mis en place dans le cadre de la loi Solidarité et Renouvellement Urbain.Après Les Grands Ensembles. Une histoire qui continue…, ce nouvel ouvrage, fruit de la collaboration entre l'École Nationale Supérieure d'Architecture de Saint-Étienne et l'Université Jean Monnet, apporte un éclairage nouveau sur cet héritage bâti, mettant au jour simultanément la question de son vécu et celle des acteurs engagés dans son édification. En réunissant quinze auteurs spécialistes de ce domaine, il s'agit de regrouper autant de points de vue, pour comprendre la diversité et la complexité des enjeux liés à la postérité de ce bâti. - « Petite enquête sur Beaulieu – Le Rond-Point », La Tribune du centre et du sud-est, 13 octobre 1955 et « Le chantier de Beaulieu – Le Rond-Point (1ère tranche) sera terminé le 30 juin 1956 très exactement »,La Tribune du centre & du sud-est, 26 juin 1956 -«St-Etienne, la place des grands ensembles dans l’histoire de l’habitat social français »Saint-Étienne/Beaulieu, au sud-est de l’agglomération, sur le versant sud de la colline de Beaulieu, en forte pente et d’aspect semi-rural, la cité de Beaulieu est mise à l’étude dès 1950. Elle débute en 1953 et comprend 1 221 logements, un groupe scolaire et 35 boutiques. Des parrains prestigieux et l’élite de l’architecture sté- phanoise sont mobilisés pour ce premier grand ensemble local.Tantôt les bâtiments suivent le dessin de la courbe de niveau 600, devenue rue Le Corbusier, tantôt ils s’installent perpendi-culairement à la pente, reliés à la rue par des passerelles ou de grands escaliers. A l’implantation exemplaire des bâtiments répond une maîtrise raffinée du végétal d’accompagnement, décliné selon les modes habituels aux squares urbains, avec une virtuosité étonnante dus aux talents de l’ingénieur des Services techniques de la ville, Jean Marc, associé à l’équipe de concep-tion dès l’origine de l’opération.Le vocabulaire de l’art des jardins s’adapte au grand ensemble : les espaces sont découpés à partir des courbes de niveau et des allées, et caractérisés par un système de haies et de contre-haies (haies étagées doubles ou triples) constituées de troènes com-muns ou dorés, prunus, berbéris et buffets de laurier, et sont plantés d arbres rythmés et colorés (érables négundo et acacias), ou parfois fastigiés (la gamme d’arbres est d’ailleurs peu riche), selon un dessin géométrique et des alternances de couleurs. Ces espaces verts ne sont réalisés qu’à partir de 1964, après avoir été longtemps laissés en prairies fauchées. Cet état de fait, dû au départ à l’étirement des financements des projets d’espaces exté-rieurs, s’inscrivait aussi dans la logique de conception de notre ingénieur, qui pensait « qu’il était nécessaire de laisser vivre un groupe d’habitations avant de planter » – afin de reprendre notamment les chemins tracés par l’usage.Cette réalisation révèle le décalage entre les réflexions et les savoir-faire architecturaux et paysagers et exprime quelques traits caractéristiques de la pratique paysagiste. Le festonnage des haies qui jalonne les espaces extérieurs rejoint celui des collines boca- gères surplombant les bâtiments. Il rappelle le site environnant et inspirera plus tard l’AUA et Alexandre Chemetoff pour la réhabilitation du quartier de Montreynaud.Relevons que, sans l’action concertée des services de la ville et de l’office d’HLM, qui finança entièrement la réalisation des espaces verts, rien n’aurait été fait à cette époque, compte tenu du désintérêt pour cet aspect du projet des principaux responsables du chantier. « D’ailleurs, à cette époque, les architectes ne jouaient pas au paysagiste… », queleques superbes videos du Ministere de la Cohésion et des Territoires içi : .Naissance d'une banlieue mort d'un village 2000 www.dailymotion.com/video/x1a98izRéalisateur : Sidney Jézéquel Production : Les Films Roger Leenhardt Sujet : la commune de Goussainville (95) --------Quatre murs et un toit 1953 www.dailymotion.com/video/xk6xui Scenario et réalisation Pierre Jallaud MRU (ministère de la reconstruction et de l'urbanisme) ----------------Le Bonheur est dans le béton www.dailymotion.com/video/x413amo - 2015 Documentaire réalisé par Lorenz Findeisen produit par Les Films du Tambour de Soie ---------------------Beaulieu par son constructeur la Cimaise :" Entre les années 50 et 60, et suite à la seconde guerre mondiale, la municipalité stéphanoise a vu sa population passée d’un peu moins de 180 000 habitants en 1950 à plus de 200 000 habitants dix ans plus tard en 1960. Cette forte augmentation de la population pouvait s’expliquer par le fort taux de natalité de cette époque (baby-boom), mais aussi par l’afflux de travailleurs de la classe ouvrière venus dans la grande cité stéphanoise pour trouver un travail. De ce fait, la construction d’un logement sain pour chaque ouvrier était devenue une priorité absolue pour les élus qui considéraient à raison que cela était une condition vitale dans le cadre de ce grand développement. Pour ce faire, la ville a lancé dans les années 50 une vaste opération de construction de barres d’habitation dans la zone de Beaulieu, destinée à fournir un logement à une population grandissante.--- Bâtir mieux plus vite et moins cher 1975 l'industrialisation du bâtiment et ses innovations : la préfabrication en usine, le coffrage glissant... www.dailymotion.com/video/xyjudq ----SAINT-ETIENNE BEAULIEU une barre d’habitation innovanteA l’époque, avec une majorité d’architectes, les appartements modernes construits possédaient des cloisons lourdes empêchant toute modification interne ainsi que des espaces de renvoi sombres et non ventilés ressemblant à des alcôves.Mais à l’inverse, pour certains architectes précurseurs de la région à l’image d’Yves et Henri Gouyon, la modernité reflétait le gout de la clarté, de l’air, et du soleil, avec de larges horizons. Ainsi, ces derniers donnaient la priorité non pas aux façades qu’ils considéraient comme de simples élévations du plan, mais aux cellules d’habitations et à leur orientation. Dans cette optique, le bâtiment proposé par Henri Gouyon, qui était donc un partisan de l’espace ouvert moderne, supprimait les circulations et profitait de ce gain de place pour aménager de nouveaux espaces de vie communes. De plus, dans ces cellules d’habitations, les architectes ont tirés profit au maximum de la double orientation des appartements (ces derniers étaient traversant) avec par exemple l’accolement de balcons. Conception et réalisation d’un quartier entier. Pour le projet de Beaulieu, l’on confia la conception ainsi que la réalisation des interventions aux agences Henri et Yves Gouyon puis Yves Gouyon et associés. Ainsi, dés le milieu des années 50, des études concernant Beaulieu II – La Marandinière furent conduites, suivis de la construction du bâtiment entre 1957 et 1959. S’en suivit Beaulieu III – Montchovet entre 1962 et 1964, surnommé la « Muraille de Chine la plus grande barre d'Europe avec 540 appartements à sa livraison mi 1964, les chantiers de l'OPAC devenu Métropole-Habitat, www.ina.fr/video/LY00001263522 », qui comprenait entre autres, une barre de type HLM haute de 10 à 17 mètres et longue de 270 mètres, avec 560 logements. Suites à ces constructions, l’urbanisation des vallées et collines du sud-est de Saint-Etienne continua jusque dans les années 70 avec les séries de la Métare I, II, et III. Au total, ce sont plus de 8 000 logements, pour l’essentiel de type HLM, qui ont été construits durant cette période. Ces constructions ont également contribué à la création du parc de l’Europe et d’un boulevard circulaire qui servait de jonction entre les différents édifices et le centre-ville de la cité stéphanoise.Un projet pharaoniqueLe centre commercial fut un projet d’une dimension sans précédent pour la ville, plus grand centre commercial intra-urbain de la région Loire-Auvergne, avec 100 magasins, 1500 places de stationnement, 90 000 m² de surface, et sur 3 niveaux (4 niveaux avec la terrasse). Le 2 octobre 1979, CENTRE DEUX ouvre ses portes pour la première fois, et constitue une renaissance et un véritable tournant pour la ville. L’avis de l’architecteDe toutes les constructions de cette époque, Beaulieu est un des ensembles construits qui se porte le mieux si l’on en croit les nombreuses enquêtes menées auprès de la population de ces logements, dont certains l’occupe pratiquement depuis le début. Les arbres atteignent désormais le haut des immeubles, et la rue Le Corbusier adjacente a pris les allures « d’une banlieue des années 30 » avec un niveau d’urbanisme parfaitement acceptable. En conclusion, on peut parler pour cette construction d’un véritable savoir faire architectural et en quelques sortes d’art urbain. Ce projet a été récompensé par un prix d’urbanisme, mettant en valeur le travail en amont du projet. www.cimaise-architectes.com/realisations/divers/construct... cité HLM labellisée Patrimoine du XXeme siecle -"Il faut bien le dire, avant même d’être livré, Beaulieu est l' un des grands-ensembles, parmis 6 autres qui fasçinait en 1954..En effet c'etait le début de la longue & grande histoire des chantiers de l'Office Public de l'Aménagement et de la Construction* içi, ou à Montreynaud, Solaure, Monthieu etc( l'OPAC l'office public de logements sociaux, devenu plus tard Métropole-Habitat, est la plus importante au niveau National, c'est la plus grosse boite d'HLM). Bref, les habituels promeneurs du coin genre les "Bois du Four (la Metare, le nom ançien, qui par ailleurs appartenait a Mme de Métarie une veuve riche qui légua son domaine soit "la Métare" à la ville, pour un Franc symbolique à l'epoque et aux CHU anciennement les HCL Hospiçes Civils de la Ville comme à Lyon... (on notera qu il y a des tas de logements en centre ville propriété du CHU)..se rendant le dimanchedans le Pilat ou à Rochetaillée et sur les collines* alentours (on en a 7 comme a Rome) font un léger détour par le chantier. Ils constatent alors de visu cet avancement des travaux que la presse qualifie de « belle prouesse ». Le rythme est en effet rapide : « un étage par semaine » pour certaines barres, comme le raconte un témoin. Les « grandes maisons », soient les immeubles de hauteur et nombre de logements importants (IGH), étant alors encore rares dans laville, les Stéphanois n’y sont pas habitués@ les H.L.M. Beaulieu est la 1ere cité Stéphanoise de toutes,. Les barres de dix-sept et quatorze niveaux gises respectivement rues Gomy Herriot et de Vlaminck, ainsi que la tour de 22 niveaux au 33 rue Le-Corbusier,surprennent donc encore pire pour la plus grande barre d'Europe qui arrvera 7 ans plus tard, la Muraille qui mettront certains certaines à la renverse , le gigantisme à l'état brut, du lourd.... La référence qui vient à l’esprit de beaucoup ajoute à la fascination : l’Amérique. « C’est New-York ! c'est tres joile, tres vert... », se rappelle avoir pensé un habitant de la première harre...Mais plus que les immeubles, ce sont surtout les logements qui emportent l’adhésion des « heureux locataires », comme aime à les appeler la presse tout court. La satisfaction procurée aux habitants par l’hygiène et le confort des logements des Grands-Ensembles soit les quartiers NEUF est une information connue, les études de sciences humaines sur le sujet abondent. Aussi, pour le cas de Beaulieu devenu un cas d'Ecole idem pour Montchovet (Beaulieu3) et les transformations de la Marandiniere (Beaulieu2)...Les entretiens réalisés avec des locataires n’apportent pas sur ce point-ci d’éléments nouveaux :les premiers motifs de satisfaction invoqués sont, comme pour bien d’autres Grands-Ensembles Français,l’eau courante, le chauffage central dont sont pourvus les immeubles les plus hauts, les WC intérieurs et salles de bain, l’ensoleillement et la luminosité permis par l’orientation, la hauteur et la disposition des immeubles, les placards et les tout aussi pratiques balcons à parois séchoirs permettant de faire sécher le linge, hiver compris. Entretien avec François Tomas, géographe, spécialiste de l'aménagement urbain, et enseignant à l'université et à l'école d'architecture de Saint-Etienne. Il est notamment l'auteur des Grands Ensembles, une histoire qui continue (Publications de l'université de Saint-Etienne, 2003). Cet intellectuel a également mis la main à la pâte. Entre 1977 et 1983, il fut adjoint à l'urbanisme du maire communiste de l'époque, Joseph Sanguedolce. Engagé au PC de 1974 à 1985, il a, depuis, rejoint le Parti socialiste «comme militant de base»L"apres guerre...Que prévoit-on pour la reconstruction? Pas grand-chose. A la différence de la refonte spectaculaire du Havre, par exemple, on se contente ici de bâtir de petits immeubles, plus modernes bien sûr, mais sans réelle innovation architecturale ou urbanistique.Est-il vrai que Saint-Etienne, après guerre, traîne une réputation de «capitale des taudis»?C'est exact, et celle-ci n'est pas usurpée. En 1946, 7% seulement des logements sont jugés «confortables», et 17%, «acceptables»; 56% sont médiocres, et 20% peuvent véritablement être qualifiés de taudis: 1 logement sur 5 n'a pas d'eau à l'évier, les deux tiers ne disposent pas de WC, et 95%, de salle d'eau. Mais le problème n'a pas été créé par la guerre. Depuis la fin du XIXe siècle, Saint-Etienne a beaucoup grandi, mais très peu construit. Résultat: la ville a vieilli sur elle-même et se trouve après guerre dans une situation désastreuse, que les bombardements ont simplement aggravée. C'est alors qu'Alexandre de Fraissinette, maire élu en 1947, fixe le logement comme l'une de ses priorités.

The No Limits Bike Racing Championship made its formal Return to the World Famous Brands Hatch Grand Prix Circuit for a Very Special 8 Hour Endurance Race.

 

Each and Every Team Had a selection of High Powered Racing Machinery that would along with the Rider take on the Might of Brands Hatches' Grand Prix Circuit for a Gruelling 8 Hours Straight.

 

While Some Teams had as many as Four Riders to make the job a Little Bit Easier other Teams Had decided to go with just Two Riders for 4 Hours Each knowing they Had the Skills and Determination to Keep Racing Hard.

 

The Championship was in is Last Race of the Season here at Brands and Whoever Won this Final Event would take the No Limits Bike Racing Championship Crown.

 

Qualifying was up First and setting the Pace at the Top of the Timings was (Andelle Leathers / RatMally Graphic) on their Kawasaki 998/Kawasaki 1000 Racing Bikes with an Incredible Time of 1.31.846 and a Top Speed of 95.37 to take Pole at The Start of the Race.

 

In Second Place was (Delkevic Racing) Kawasaki 1000/BMW 1000/Kawasaki 1000 Yamaha 1000 Racing Bikes with a Lap Time of 1.31.784 and a Top Speed of 95.34mph.

 

In Third Place was (Earnshaw's Motorcycles) BMW 1000/BMW 1000 Racing Bikes with A Lap Time of 1.32.099 and an Top Speed of 95.11mph.

 

With Qualifying Over and a 11:46am Start Fast Approaching all of the Riders to head out for the First 2 Hours. Just like Old School Le Mans the Riders all Lined Up on the Opposite Side of the Pitlane with their Respective Teams Holding onto the Bikes Ready for them to Blast off into the Distance around the Circuit.

 

A Loud Bang from the Calcian Signalled the Start of an 8 Hour Endurance Race and each Rider Ran Towards their Bikes Fired them Up and Set off onto the Race Track.

 

During the First Hour All Riders Made it through the First Opening Laps without any Problems and already many of them were getting up to Speed while some other Riders Preferred to nurse their Machinery for the First Hour to Avoid anything Breaking or Failing on thease High Powered Machines.

 

As Hour two Approached Everyone was still going strong and The Riders were Each Getting into a Really Good Rhythm of the Grand Prix circuit while other Teams had opted to Head to the pits to swap Riders and Give themselves more of a chance to take Victory with a selection of different Talents and Bikes available.

 

The Start of Hour Three saw a lot of Different Battles Going on thought the field and on the Back Straight there was some Close Wheel to Wheel Action Between Every Rider traveling at Speeds close to Nearly 100mph. Some Riders were Pushing so Hard that Even their Front Wheels Rose into the Air Making for some Epic and Thrilling Moments. An Overtake by Rider Number 97 on 36 was the Highlight so Far.

 

Hour Four and Still Each Rider was not Giving Up on the Chance of Victory with Half of the Endurance Race Completed by Now it was Time for Another Rider Change and with Many Teams Heading for the Pits Once Again Each New Rider Ventured Out onto the Brands Hatch GP Circuit it Beautiful Sunlit Conditions Although thease Must Have Been Playing Havoc with the Visibility for the Riders. Non the Less After Just One Retirement Earlier Due to an Engine Fire and a Marshall that should Have Really Been More Prepared. the Remaining Riders Soldered on.

 

The Fifth Hour was now Upon them and after a Very Hectic and Fast set of Laps Earlier Many Riders were setting down into their Positions to make sure the Bike they were on would Survive to the End. Druids was a Place to witness some Incredible Overtakes During this Time with the Light Levels Lowering and The Riders Really Looking like they were Pushing Hard and Encouraging their Machines to solder onto Victory.

 

Hour Six and with the Light Levels Now Falling even Lower it looked like this Endurance Race would be Ending in Nearly Dark Conditions as the Rider Kept on Going. The Few Retirement's Earlier on during Hour 2 and 3 were now just a Memory in the Surviving Riders Minds who all had One Goal in Mind. Get This Bike to the End of The Race.

 

Hour Seven and by now the Light was Nearly all But Gone with the Last Rays of Sunshine Disappearing Entirely from the Tops of Druids and yet Despite this now disadvantage i terms of Having a lot less light The Riders Still Continued to Push Hard and Fight their was To Victory in the Closing Stages as the Race Reached its Climax.

 

The Final Hour was Finally here and Every Rider who Had Been Concentrating Hard all Day was Now in a Position to Push Hard for that Final Hour of Glory that would mean the Difference Between either a Race Victory or a Race Loss. As The Minuets Slowly Ticked Down and The Last Light of Day Had been Long Extinguished from the Circuit. it was the Team of (Delkevic Racing's Liam Marchant / Gary Johnson / James Edwards and Luke Scott who took a Resounding Victory after 232 Laps and a Gruelling 8 Hour's of Racing 2 For Each of The Riders. Congratulations Delkevic Racing an Incredible Achievement.

 

In Second Place was The Team of (Earnshaw's Motorcycles Jonathan Lodge and James Lodge) after 232 Laps and 4 Hour's Between Them a Super Effort and Very Well Deserved Second Place Battle Through some Very Tough Competitors.

 

In Third Place was (Josh Daley Racing/RC Express by Dafabet Josh Daley and Rob Hodson) after a Very Hard and Gruelling 231 Laps in the Seat of Their Racing Bikes. Amazing Work Josh Daley Racing Incredible Ride and a Very Well Deserved Third Place.

 

An Exceptional Day of Endurance Racing from the No Limits Bike Racing Championship with Delkevic Racing's Liam Marchant / Gary Johnson / James Edwards and Luke Scott Taking The Final Victory of the Season with Datasys Racing Mark Daines / Jeremy Watson / Johnny Panter and Joe Higham taking The Championship for 2021.

 

A Big Congratulations to all of the Riders who took Part in this Event in my Opinion you Made everyone who Races in the Bennet's British Super Bike Championship look like Amateurs. You Guys are the Real Deal and am Really Looking forward to Watching this Epic Race all over Again Next Year. Until Then Keep Racing and Never Give Up Hope of One Day Standing on the Top Step of the Podium.

      

Faculdade UNA

Fotos: Adelcio Ramos/PMC

 

Com o objetivo de ouvir e dialogar com usuários do Transporte Especial Sem Limite, pessoas com deficiência física ou mobilidade reduzida, a Prefeitura de Contagem realizou, sábado (8/10), no auditório da UNA Contagem, o 1º Encontro Coletivo de Gestão Democrática do Serviço de Transporte Especial Sem Limite.

Na abertura do evento, a superintendente de Políticas Públicas para as Pessoas com Deficiência, Karla Regina Lopes, disse que o evento é uma forma de garantir a gestão democrática do serviço e de apurar as necessidades dos usuários, por meio de sugestões, críticas e elogios, contribuindo, assim, para a melhoria e avanços do serviço na cidade.

O Programa Sem Limite realiza o transporte gratuito de pessoas com deficiência física ou mobilidade reduzida do município para escolas e tratamentos médicos, garantindo o direito de ir e vir, promovendo dignidade, inclusão e cidadania. Contagem é uma das únicas cidades mineiras que mantém este tipo de transporte no Brasil.

Presente ao evento, o vice-prefeito Ricardo Faria ressaltou o compromisso da Prefeitura com as políticas públicas inclusivas e inovadoras. “O aspecto holístico do Programa Sem Limite envolve várias secretarias. As pessoas tem várias necessidades. Além de ir ao médico, elas também precisam de ir ao cinema e ao parque. São políticas como estas que melhoram a qualidade de vida das pessoas”, afirmou.

O secretário de Direitos Humanos e Cidadania, Marcelo Lino, destacou que o Programa Sem Limite é fruto de uma ousadia da prefeita Marília Campos, que escolheu investir na pessoa com deficiência, para garantir o direito de todos irem à escola e ao médico. Nestes 15 anos do Programa, queremos pensar coletivamente para que possamos ser ainda mais eficientes”, disse.

A estudante de Sistemas de Informação, Luana Oliveira, 26 anos, usa o Transporte Especial desde os 11 anos de idade. Hoje ela já está na faculdade e continua usando o serviço. “O Sem Limite é muito importante para garantir a minha mobilidade, conforto e segurança, porque ele me pega na porta da faculdade e me deixa na porta de casa. Como eu estudo a noite, sem esta segurança seria muito difícil pra mim, e esta abertura para o diálogo é muito importante para melhorias”, opinou.

A dona de casa, Daiane Flávia, achou importante participar do evento. Ela tem uma filha que faz o uso do Transporte Especial, que considera essencial na sua vida. “O Sem Limite facilita totalmente a minha vida, sem ele eu não poderia levar a minha filha para fazer os tratamentos que ela precisa. O serviço é muito bom e necessário. Se pudesse ser ampliado, seria melhor ainda”, disse.

Também participaram do evento, o presidente da Autarquia Municipal de Trânsito e Transportes de Contagem- Transcon, Marco Antônio Silveira, e o representante da Cooperativa de Transporte Inclusivo, Vanjo Barcelos.

Programa Sem Limite

É uma política pública do município, promovida com recursos, exclusivamente, do município. Desde 2007, o serviço já beneficiou centenas de pessoas e, atualmente, conta com 392 usuários credenciados e 24 vans disponíveis, com capacidade para transportar até três cadeirantes e seus acompanhantes.

O transporte tem a gestão e execução em formato de responsabilidade intersetorial, envolvendo as secretarias municipais de Direitos Humanos e Cidadania; de Desenvolvimento Social, Trabalho e Segurança Alimentar; de Saúde e de Educação, além da Autarquia Municipal de Trânsito e de Transportes de Contagem – TransCon.

 

WPT Alpha 8 Florida (S2) Day 1

Les 40 ans d’une course mythique La Route du Rhum s’élancera de Saint-Malo dimanche 4 novembre 2018, comme toujours à 13h02, pour satisfaire à sa retransmission en direct sur France Télévisions.

La célèbre transatlantique, organisée tous les 4 ans, fête cette année ses 40 ans.

Créée en 1978 par Michel Etévenon, un publicitaire parisien et homme de spectacles, elle est désormais « barrée » par Pen Duick, une société appartenant au groupe de presse Le Télégramme. 3 500 miles, soit un peu plus de 5 600 km, séparent Saint-Malo de Pointe-à-Pitre en Guadeloupe, théâtre d’arrivée de cette transat en solitaire. 98 secondes pour une éternité Ils étaient 38 à s’y jeter à l’eau la première fois, en 1978.

Il y avait là Olivier de Kersauson, Philippe Poupon, Florence Arthaud et Bruno Peyron.

Cette édition d’anthologie connaîtra un final incroyable entre Mike Birch et Michel Malinovsky.

Le skipper français est dépassé par le premier nommé, Canadien, à moins d’un kilomètre de l’arrivée. 98 secondes séparent les deux hommes sur la ligne d’arrivée. « 98 secondes pour une éternité » titrera en gros sur sa Une le journal L’Équipe au lendemain de l’événement.

Le drame Manureva 1978, c’est aussi la disparition tragique d’Alain Colas et de son trimaran Manureva. Juste avant que le contact ne soit rompu, le marin lance un appel désespéré au PC Course : « Je suis dans l’œil du cyclone. Il n’y a plus de ciel, tout est amalgame d’éléments, il y a des montagnes d’eau autour de moi ». C’était le 16 novembre 1978 à 4h.

123 bateaux au départ

C’est une édition record qui s’annonce cette année. Dimanche 4 novembre, au départ de la Route du Rhum, au large de Cancale, 123 skippers s’élanceront en solo vers Pointe-à-Pitre.

Ils sont répartis en 6 catégories. Les stars de la course sont regroupées en catégorie « Ultime ».

Ils seront 6 géants des mers à voler sur l’eau en tête de peloton. Les autres bateaux se partagent entre les catégories « Multi 50 », « Imoca », « Rhum multicoques », « Rhum monocoques » et enfin la plus nombreuse la « Class 40 » (53 engagés).

Celle où se côtoient, sur des monocoques de 12 mètres 40, marins aguerris et passionnés de la course au large. Des hommes partis pour certains pour réaliser le rêve d’une vie.

Le record pour Peyron 7 jours, 15 heures, 8 minutes et 32 secondes.

 

Sur la Route du Rhum, ils sont six engagés en Multi50, qui a effectué sa révolution copernicienne ces dernières années. Plus vite, plus fort, plus fiable et sécurisant, ce type de bateaux se cherche un nouvel essor. Le point avec l’actuel et l’ancien dirigeant de la classe.

« On a fait le choix fort de se séparer des anciens bateaux, des vintage, pour présenter sur les départs de courses une classe plus homogène avec des bateaux de mêmes dimensions, qui aient la même hauteur de mât, qui se ressemblent tous un peu tant en termes de performance que de visibilité. »

Erwan Le Roux, skippeur de FenêtréA-Mix Buffet et qui en est à son troisième mandat de président de la classe des Multi50, vainqueur de la Route du Rhum 2014 dans la catégorie, pose les enjeux qui se sont présentés lorsqu’il a pris la succession de Franck-Yves Escoffier, retiré des bateaux après trois victoires dans la reine des Transats et autant dans la Transat Jacques Vabre.

Les Multi50 avaient déjà connu un bel essor sous le règne de son prédécesseur – 11 bateaux engagés il y a quatre ans – mais qu’il convenait de moderniser. Pour lui conférer un aspect plus sportif, pour faire en sorte, aussi, de dépoussiérer. « Ça signifiait se passer de certains », dit-il. Aucune hésitation à trancher dans le vif. Cette année, ils auraient dû être 7, « mais on en a perdu un l’année dernière (l’ex Crêpes Whaou II de Franck-Yves Escoffier, Drekan Groupe d’Éric Defert et Christopher Pratt, chaviré au large des Açores pendant la Transat Jacques Vabre). Quand on a décidé ça, l’objectif était d’arriver au départ de la Route du Rhum avec six à huit bateaux neufs. Il est donc partiellement rempli, avec six bateaux qui peuvent gagner. »

2,2 millions d'euros à la construction

L’affaire est passée par une exigence technologique accrue, et par là même un niveau de pilotes plus aguerris aux joutes rapides sur des bateaux qui lèvent facilement la patte. Les trimarans de 15,24 m ont donc embrayé et suivi la marche engagée tant en Ultimes qu’en Imoca : « On les a modernisés, on a posé des foils, on a essayé de les rendre plus vivants et aériens, et du coup ça a intéressé d’autres skippeurs, Thierry Bouchard, Thibaut Vauchel-Camus, Armel Tripon qui ont contribué à faire que cette classe se dynamise. » Réussite sur toute la ligne, même si cela a supposé une réduction des effectifs et un appauvrissement du nombre pour plus de qualité intrinsèque.

Pas question pour autant de céder à tout, dans un but avoué de coûts limités même si aujourd’hui un Multi50 coûte 2,2 millions d’euros à la construction, et nécessitent globalement un budget annuel de 800 000 euros (amortissement de la machine compris) : « Le carbone reste autorisé pour les bras de liaison, coques et flotteurs restent en verre (plis de verre et mousse en sandwich), et on reste ouverts pour continuer de moderniser la jauge mais on ne pense pas que le tout carbone soit un facteur très important de modernité. » En revanche, d’autres pistes sont explorées. « Les plans porteurs sur les safrans et les mâts basculants en revanche vont dans ce sens, et ce sont des perspectives qu’on explore aujourd’hui. »

« Les bateaux sont plus aériens »

Déjà, l’apport des foils a représenté un bond en avant conséquent. Cinq des six bateaux qui se présenteront dimanche sur la ligne de départ en sont dotés (seul La French Tech Rennes-Saint-Malo de Gilles Lamiré en est dépourvu), et les deux plus récents de la flotte ont été construits autour de ces appendices « volants » : « Très clairement, ils ont constitué un gain de sécurité, et si Drekan en avait eu je pense qu’il n’aurait pas chaviré, assure Le Roux. Moi qui ai navigué avec et sans, je ne comprends pas qu’on n’y soit pas passés avant… Les bateaux sont plus aériens, on a gagné en confort dans de la mer au près – avant dans 2,50m de mer le flotteur s’enfonçait quand maintenant la capacité de naviguer dans de la mer est passée à 3,50m et on a un énorme gain en matière de sécurité d’enfournement et de risque de sansir (chavirer par l’avant). Ça nous permet d’atteindre des vitesses qu’on n’atteignait pas avant dans 3 mètres de mer. »

Du même coup, les performances ont naturellement pris un coup de pied aux fesses. À conditions météo égales par rapport à 2014 où il avait mis 11 jours et 15 heures pour traverser, Erwan Le Roux estime qu’un 50 pieds à foils parcourrait la distance en 10 jours, « et il y a quatre ans on aurait quasiment pris le même régime météo que les Ultimes », ce qui aurait notamment évité le gros décrochage enregistré au cap Finisterre. Cette année permettra de mieux mesurer le chemin effectué. Mais une donnée reste incompressible : celle de la longueur. Quoi qu’il en soit, en dépit du double de longueur qu’affichent les plus grands trimarans, les Multi50 ne mettront pas deux fois plus de temps pour rallier Pointe-à-Pitre.

Franck-Yves Escoffier : « De notre temps… »

« Il y a plus de bateaux compétitifs ! Je vais parler comme un vieux, mais de notre temps, il y avait deux, trois, quatre bateaux plus des vintage, la flotte n’était pas homogène. Quand j’étais président de la classe, mon but était de ne pas exploser les budgets et j’ai toujours freiné. Mais on avait souvent discuté et on savait qu’un jour il faudrait progresser pour réduire les écarts entre classes sur les arrivées et si on n’évoluait pas les monocoques de 60 pieds auraient fini par arriver devant nous ce qui n’aurait pas été normal pour un multicoque. Ils sont donc passés aux foils au bon moment.

J’ai simplement eu le mérite d’aller dans cette classe-là, et de faire des régates avec de très bonnes vitesses moyennes. Maintenant, c’est sûr que pour gagner le Rhum ça va être plus difficile. Sur les six bateaux, il y en a cinq très récents ou qui se sont dotés de foils (seul celui de Gilles Lamiré n’en est pas équipé), donc dire qui va gagner… Ces cinq-là peuvent. J’aimerais qu’il y ait plus de bateaux, parce que quand cette classe a été créée en 2005 après ma victoire dans la Transat Jacques Vabre c’était l’idée, et je ne comprends toujours pas pourquoi plus de skippeurs professionnels ou amateurs très éclairés n’y viennent pas. C’est vrai que ça reste cher, mais très abordable par rapport aux ultimes. On est dans le vrai bateau de belle PME et le problème, c’est qu’aujourd’hui il y a un fossé entre les Ultimes et les Multi50, il n’y a rien d’autre. Bien sûr, et c’est le propre du multicoque, ce type de bateau peut se retourner et si ça se produit à plus de 300 milles des côtes le risque est grand de le perdre, mais c’est justement pour ça qu’il en faudrait plus, pour qu’il en reste toujours un petit peu.

À l’origine, on s’était dit avec nos partenaires un skippeur, un assistant. Et certains ont débordé, je ne leur en veux pas parce qu’ils avaient les moyens d’étoffer les équipes, que ça nécessite aussi de la recherche, énormément de développement sur les pilotes automatiques… Ce sont des bateaux qui vont très vite, beaucoup plus vite que ce qu’on faisait ! Nos pointes de vitesse avec Crêpe Whaou 3 (en 2009) sans foils c’était 32 nœuds, maintenant ils frôlent les 40 nœuds ! Thibaut a réussi à faire 40 nœuds par mer plate avec beaucoup de vent et sous le vent de la côte, ce qu’aucun skippeur n’aurait été capable de prévoir il y a dix ans. C’est énorme sur un 50 pieds, les Ultimes de 32m marchent à 48 nœuds en pointe…

On est en train de progresser, maintenant, je pense qu’il faut s’arrêter aux foils en termes de développement, n’allons pas faire comme les Ultimes, mettre des plans porteurs, des mâts basculants. Il faut se rapprocher de la monotypie, comme ça a été fait pour les foils, et avec des mâts identiques comme ils l’ont fait en Imoca ce qui permettrait de produire des mâts à 10 ou 20 % moins cher, faire des bateaux basiques, même si ce sont des avions de chasse, pour que les sponsors ne viennent pas à débourser trop d’argent tous les ans. C’est certainement la classe où les bateaux sont les plus proches. Vauchel : bateau puissant, beaucoup plus haut sur l’eau pour mieux passer dans le gros temps, et je lui dis en rigolant qu’il ne se gêne pas s’il a la possibilité de passer par le Nord. »

Serge Herbin est le speaker de la Route du Rhum. Et cela ne date pas d’hier ! Ce personnage haut en couleur est un peu le Daniel Mangeas de la voile. Tisseur de liens entre un public néophyte et un univers très technique, il participe à rendre populaire les courses au large depuis plus de vingt ans.

Il court partout, tout le temps. Depuis que le village de la Route du Rhum a ouvert ses portes, la voix de Serge Herbin, le speaker de la course, résonne régulièrement dans les enceintes disposées ici et là. On ne sait jamais vraiment où il se trouve, mais il ne nous quitte jamais vraiment.

« 19 kilomètres contre le vent »

S’il est insaisissable, ce n’est pas volontaire. C’est le job qui veut ça. « Dimanche, j’ai marché 19 kilomètres contre le vent », confie-t-il. Il en faudra plus pour le mettre à bout de souffle. Le micro greffé à la main, Serge est un passionné. La voile, les skippers, les bateaux… Cela fait plus de vingt ans qu’il nage dans cet univers technique. « Au départ, je n’y connaissais pas grand-chose », avoue-t-il. Son aventure a débuté un peu par hasard, en 1995. « Gérard Petipas et Pierre Bogic m’ont contacté car ils cherchaient un présentateur à l’occasion de la sixième édition de la Course de l’Europe », raconte Serge. Ce dernier accepte. À Cherbourg, sa première interview ne manque pas de sel : Loïck Peyron. L’animateur en herbe est impressionné, mais, très social, il se lie rapidement d’amitié avec les skippers qu’il croise.

L’idée était de créer une communion entre les marins et le public. Cela n’existait pas à l’époque sur les courses au large.

Au fil du temps, Serge trouve ses repères dans le monde de la voile. Mais son ambition du départ ne le quitte pas. « L’idée pour laquelle on m’a contacté était de créer une communion entre les marins et le public. Cela n’existait pas à ce moment sur les courses au large », rapporte-t-il. Avec des termes simples, « qui ne sonnent pas faux », sa voix tisse un pont entre « un microcosme très technique » et monsieur tout le monde.

Une ambition d’autant plus importante que la voile n’a cessé de se populariser. « Les disparitions de navigateurs, les grands exploits sportifs, les navires de plus en plus impressionnants… Il y a plusieurs facteurs qui expliquent l’engouement du public pour ce sport », décrypte le speaker. Avec ses 123 bateaux et ses milliers de spectateurs, la onzième édition de la Route du rhum en est l’exemple flagrant.

Des journées marathon

« Il y a une magie particulière à Saint-Malo. J’ai bien dû mal à l’expliquer », avance Serge. « À chaque édition, il se passe quelque chose ». Pour le speaker, l’événement est aussi synonyme de journée à rallonge. « On s’y prépare. Je me couche tôt, je n’abuse pas des spiritueux », livre-t-il. Habituée des foires-expositions sur lesquelles il travaillait autrefois, la voix de la voile est rodée à la foule, aux rencontres et à la narration d’aventures humaines.

Quand on le compare à Daniel Mangeas, le commentateur des courses cyclistes et speaker historique du Tour de France, Serge rigole. « C’est flatteur. En plus on se connaît bien, on est Normand tous les deux ». Mais pas le temps de s’attarder en compliment, l’amoureux de la mer est appelé de toutes parts. À 57 ans, le speaker s’éloigne avec un enthousiasme qui donne le sourire. Ce soir, des centaines de néophytes en sauront un peu plus sur la voile. Qui sait ? Peut-être prendront-ils la mer un jour, sans jamais se douter que c’est Serge Herbin qui leur a plus ou moins soufflé l’idée, un jour d’automne à Saint-Malo.

The No Limits Bike Racing Championship made its formal Return to the World Famous Brands Hatch Grand Prix Circuit for a Very Special 8 Hour Endurance Race.

 

Each and Every Team Had a selection of High Powered Racing Machinery that would along with the Rider take on the Might of Brands Hatches' Grand Prix Circuit for a Gruelling 8 Hours Straight.

 

While Some Teams had as many as Four Riders to make the job a Little Bit Easier other Teams Had decided to go with just Two Riders for 4 Hours Each knowing they Had the Skills and Determination to Keep Racing Hard.

 

The Championship was in is Last Race of the Season here at Brands and Whoever Won this Final Event would take the No Limits Bike Racing Championship Crown.

 

Qualifying was up First and setting the Pace at the Top of the Timings was (Andelle Leathers / RatMally Graphic) on their Kawasaki 998/Kawasaki 1000 Racing Bikes with an Incredible Time of 1.31.846 and a Top Speed of 95.37 to take Pole at The Start of the Race.

 

In Second Place was (Delkevic Racing) Kawasaki 1000/BMW 1000/Kawasaki 1000 Yamaha 1000 Racing Bikes with a Lap Time of 1.31.784 and a Top Speed of 95.34mph.

 

In Third Place was (Earnshaw's Motorcycles) BMW 1000/BMW 1000 Racing Bikes with A Lap Time of 1.32.099 and an Top Speed of 95.11mph.

 

With Qualifying Over and a 11:46am Start Fast Approaching all of the Riders to head out for the First 2 Hours. Just like Old School Le Mans the Riders all Lined Up on the Opposite Side of the Pitlane with their Respective Teams Holding onto the Bikes Ready for them to Blast off into the Distance around the Circuit.

 

A Loud Bang from the Calcian Signalled the Start of an 8 Hour Endurance Race and each Rider Ran Towards their Bikes Fired them Up and Set off onto the Race Track.

 

During the First Hour All Riders Made it through the First Opening Laps without any Problems and already many of them were getting up to Speed while some other Riders Preferred to nurse their Machinery for the First Hour to Avoid anything Breaking or Failing on thease High Powered Machines.

 

As Hour two Approached Everyone was still going strong and The Riders were Each Getting into a Really Good Rhythm of the Grand Prix circuit while other Teams had opted to Head to the pits to swap Riders and Give themselves more of a chance to take Victory with a selection of different Talents and Bikes available.

 

The Start of Hour Three saw a lot of Different Battles Going on thought the field and on the Back Straight there was some Close Wheel to Wheel Action Between Every Rider traveling at Speeds close to Nearly 100mph. Some Riders were Pushing so Hard that Even their Front Wheels Rose into the Air Making for some Epic and Thrilling Moments. An Overtake by Rider Number 97 on 36 was the Highlight so Far.

 

Hour Four and Still Each Rider was not Giving Up on the Chance of Victory with Half of the Endurance Race Completed by Now it was Time for Another Rider Change and with Many Teams Heading for the Pits Once Again Each New Rider Ventured Out onto the Brands Hatch GP Circuit it Beautiful Sunlit Conditions Although thease Must Have Been Playing Havoc with the Visibility for the Riders. Non the Less After Just One Retirement Earlier Due to an Engine Fire and a Marshall that should Have Really Been More Prepared. the Remaining Riders Soldered on.

 

The Fifth Hour was now Upon them and after a Very Hectic and Fast set of Laps Earlier Many Riders were setting down into their Positions to make sure the Bike they were on would Survive to the End. Druids was a Place to witness some Incredible Overtakes During this Time with the Light Levels Lowering and The Riders Really Looking like they were Pushing Hard and Encouraging their Machines to solder onto Victory.

 

Hour Six and with the Light Levels Now Falling even Lower it looked like this Endurance Race would be Ending in Nearly Dark Conditions as the Rider Kept on Going. The Few Retirement's Earlier on during Hour 2 and 3 were now just a Memory in the Surviving Riders Minds who all had One Goal in Mind. Get This Bike to the End of The Race.

 

Hour Seven and by now the Light was Nearly all But Gone with the Last Rays of Sunshine Disappearing Entirely from the Tops of Druids and yet Despite this now disadvantage i terms of Having a lot less light The Riders Still Continued to Push Hard and Fight their was To Victory in the Closing Stages as the Race Reached its Climax.

 

The Final Hour was Finally here and Every Rider who Had Been Concentrating Hard all Day was Now in a Position to Push Hard for that Final Hour of Glory that would mean the Difference Between either a Race Victory or a Race Loss. As The Minuets Slowly Ticked Down and The Last Light of Day Had been Long Extinguished from the Circuit. it was the Team of (Delkevic Racing's Liam Marchant / Gary Johnson / James Edwards and Luke Scott who took a Resounding Victory after 232 Laps and a Gruelling 8 Hour's of Racing 2 For Each of The Riders. Congratulations Delkevic Racing an Incredible Achievement.

 

In Second Place was The Team of (Earnshaw's Motorcycles Jonathan Lodge and James Lodge) after 232 Laps and 4 Hour's Between Them a Super Effort and Very Well Deserved Second Place Battle Through some Very Tough Competitors.

 

In Third Place was (Josh Daley Racing/RC Express by Dafabet Josh Daley and Rob Hodson) after a Very Hard and Gruelling 231 Laps in the Seat of Their Racing Bikes. Amazing Work Josh Daley Racing Incredible Ride and a Very Well Deserved Third Place.

 

An Exceptional Day of Endurance Racing from the No Limits Bike Racing Championship with Delkevic Racing's Liam Marchant / Gary Johnson / James Edwards and Luke Scott Taking The Final Victory of the Season with Datasys Racing Mark Daines / Jeremy Watson / Johnny Panter and Joe Higham taking The Championship for 2021.

 

A Big Congratulations to all of the Riders who took Part in this Event in my Opinion you Made everyone who Races in the Bennet's British Super Bike Championship look like Amateurs. You Guys are the Real Deal and am Really Looking forward to Watching this Epic Race all over Again Next Year. Until Then Keep Racing and Never Give Up Hope of One Day Standing on the Top Step of the Podium.

      

The No Limits Bike Racing Championship made its formal Return to the World Famous Brands Hatch Grand Prix Circuit for a Very Special 8 Hour Endurance Race.

 

Each and Every Team Had a selection of High Powered Racing Machinery that would along with the Rider take on the Might of Brands Hatches' Grand Prix Circuit for a Gruelling 8 Hours Straight.

 

While Some Teams had as many as Four Riders to make the job a Little Bit Easier other Teams Had decided to go with just Two Riders for 4 Hours Each knowing they Had the Skills and Determination to Keep Racing Hard.

 

The Championship was in is Last Race of the Season here at Brands and Whoever Won this Final Event would take the No Limits Bike Racing Championship Crown.

 

Qualifying was up First and setting the Pace at the Top of the Timings was (Andelle Leathers / RatMally Graphic) on their Kawasaki 998/Kawasaki 1000 Racing Bikes with an Incredible Time of 1.31.846 and a Top Speed of 95.37 to take Pole at The Start of the Race.

 

In Second Place was (Delkevic Racing) Kawasaki 1000/BMW 1000/Kawasaki 1000 Yamaha 1000 Racing Bikes with a Lap Time of 1.31.784 and a Top Speed of 95.34mph.

 

In Third Place was (Earnshaw's Motorcycles) BMW 1000/BMW 1000 Racing Bikes with A Lap Time of 1.32.099 and an Top Speed of 95.11mph.

 

With Qualifying Over and a 11:46am Start Fast Approaching all of the Riders to head out for the First 2 Hours. Just like Old School Le Mans the Riders all Lined Up on the Opposite Side of the Pitlane with their Respective Teams Holding onto the Bikes Ready for them to Blast off into the Distance around the Circuit.

 

A Loud Bang from the Calcian Signalled the Start of an 8 Hour Endurance Race and each Rider Ran Towards their Bikes Fired them Up and Set off onto the Race Track.

 

During the First Hour All Riders Made it through the First Opening Laps without any Problems and already many of them were getting up to Speed while some other Riders Preferred to nurse their Machinery for the First Hour to Avoid anything Breaking or Failing on thease High Powered Machines.

 

As Hour two Approached Everyone was still going strong and The Riders were Each Getting into a Really Good Rhythm of the Grand Prix circuit while other Teams had opted to Head to the pits to swap Riders and Give themselves more of a chance to take Victory with a selection of different Talents and Bikes available.

 

The Start of Hour Three saw a lot of Different Battles Going on thought the field and on the Back Straight there was some Close Wheel to Wheel Action Between Every Rider traveling at Speeds close to Nearly 100mph. Some Riders were Pushing so Hard that Even their Front Wheels Rose into the Air Making for some Epic and Thrilling Moments. An Overtake by Rider Number 97 on 36 was the Highlight so Far.

 

Hour Four and Still Each Rider was not Giving Up on the Chance of Victory with Half of the Endurance Race Completed by Now it was Time for Another Rider Change and with Many Teams Heading for the Pits Once Again Each New Rider Ventured Out onto the Brands Hatch GP Circuit it Beautiful Sunlit Conditions Although thease Must Have Been Playing Havoc with the Visibility for the Riders. Non the Less After Just One Retirement Earlier Due to an Engine Fire and a Marshall that should Have Really Been More Prepared. the Remaining Riders Soldered on.

 

The Fifth Hour was now Upon them and after a Very Hectic and Fast set of Laps Earlier Many Riders were setting down into their Positions to make sure the Bike they were on would Survive to the End. Druids was a Place to witness some Incredible Overtakes During this Time with the Light Levels Lowering and The Riders Really Looking like they were Pushing Hard and Encouraging their Machines to solder onto Victory.

 

Hour Six and with the Light Levels Now Falling even Lower it looked like this Endurance Race would be Ending in Nearly Dark Conditions as the Rider Kept on Going. The Few Retirement's Earlier on during Hour 2 and 3 were now just a Memory in the Surviving Riders Minds who all had One Goal in Mind. Get This Bike to the End of The Race.

 

Hour Seven and by now the Light was Nearly all But Gone with the Last Rays of Sunshine Disappearing Entirely from the Tops of Druids and yet Despite this now disadvantage i terms of Having a lot less light The Riders Still Continued to Push Hard and Fight their was To Victory in the Closing Stages as the Race Reached its Climax.

 

The Final Hour was Finally here and Every Rider who Had Been Concentrating Hard all Day was Now in a Position to Push Hard for that Final Hour of Glory that would mean the Difference Between either a Race Victory or a Race Loss. As The Minuets Slowly Ticked Down and The Last Light of Day Had been Long Extinguished from the Circuit. it was the Team of (Delkevic Racing's Liam Marchant / Gary Johnson / James Edwards and Luke Scott who took a Resounding Victory after 232 Laps and a Gruelling 8 Hour's of Racing 2 For Each of The Riders. Congratulations Delkevic Racing an Incredible Achievement.

 

In Second Place was The Team of (Earnshaw's Motorcycles Jonathan Lodge and James Lodge) after 232 Laps and 4 Hour's Between Them a Super Effort and Very Well Deserved Second Place Battle Through some Very Tough Competitors.

 

In Third Place was (Josh Daley Racing/RC Express by Dafabet Josh Daley and Rob Hodson) after a Very Hard and Gruelling 231 Laps in the Seat of Their Racing Bikes. Amazing Work Josh Daley Racing Incredible Ride and a Very Well Deserved Third Place.

 

An Exceptional Day of Endurance Racing from the No Limits Bike Racing Championship with Delkevic Racing's Liam Marchant / Gary Johnson / James Edwards and Luke Scott Taking The Final Victory of the Season with Datasys Racing Mark Daines / Jeremy Watson / Johnny Panter and Joe Higham taking The Championship for 2021.

 

A Big Congratulations to all of the Riders who took Part in this Event in my Opinion you Made everyone who Races in the Bennet's British Super Bike Championship look like Amateurs. You Guys are the Real Deal and am Really Looking forward to Watching this Epic Race all over Again Next Year. Until Then Keep Racing and Never Give Up Hope of One Day Standing on the Top Step of the Podium.

      

The No Limits Bike Racing Championship made its formal Return to the World Famous Brands Hatch Grand Prix Circuit for a Very Special 8 Hour Endurance Race.

 

Each and Every Team Had a selection of High Powered Racing Machinery that would along with the Rider take on the Might of Brands Hatches' Grand Prix Circuit for a Gruelling 8 Hours Straight.

 

While Some Teams had as many as Four Riders to make the job a Little Bit Easier other Teams Had decided to go with just Two Riders for 4 Hours Each knowing they Had the Skills and Determination to Keep Racing Hard.

 

The Championship was in is Last Race of the Season here at Brands and Whoever Won this Final Event would take the No Limits Bike Racing Championship Crown.

 

Qualifying was up First and setting the Pace at the Top of the Timings was (Andelle Leathers / RatMally Graphic) on their Kawasaki 998/Kawasaki 1000 Racing Bikes with an Incredible Time of 1.31.846 and a Top Speed of 95.37 to take Pole at The Start of the Race.

 

In Second Place was (Delkevic Racing) Kawasaki 1000/BMW 1000/Kawasaki 1000 Yamaha 1000 Racing Bikes with a Lap Time of 1.31.784 and a Top Speed of 95.34mph.

 

In Third Place was (Earnshaw's Motorcycles) BMW 1000/BMW 1000 Racing Bikes with A Lap Time of 1.32.099 and an Top Speed of 95.11mph.

 

With Qualifying Over and a 11:46am Start Fast Approaching all of the Riders to head out for the First 2 Hours. Just like Old School Le Mans the Riders all Lined Up on the Opposite Side of the Pitlane with their Respective Teams Holding onto the Bikes Ready for them to Blast off into the Distance around the Circuit.

 

A Loud Bang from the Calcian Signalled the Start of an 8 Hour Endurance Race and each Rider Ran Towards their Bikes Fired them Up and Set off onto the Race Track.

 

During the First Hour All Riders Made it through the First Opening Laps without any Problems and already many of them were getting up to Speed while some other Riders Preferred to nurse their Machinery for the First Hour to Avoid anything Breaking or Failing on thease High Powered Machines.

 

As Hour two Approached Everyone was still going strong and The Riders were Each Getting into a Really Good Rhythm of the Grand Prix circuit while other Teams had opted to Head to the pits to swap Riders and Give themselves more of a chance to take Victory with a selection of different Talents and Bikes available.

 

The Start of Hour Three saw a lot of Different Battles Going on thought the field and on the Back Straight there was some Close Wheel to Wheel Action Between Every Rider traveling at Speeds close to Nearly 100mph. Some Riders were Pushing so Hard that Even their Front Wheels Rose into the Air Making for some Epic and Thrilling Moments. An Overtake by Rider Number 97 on 36 was the Highlight so Far.

 

Hour Four and Still Each Rider was not Giving Up on the Chance of Victory with Half of the Endurance Race Completed by Now it was Time for Another Rider Change and with Many Teams Heading for the Pits Once Again Each New Rider Ventured Out onto the Brands Hatch GP Circuit it Beautiful Sunlit Conditions Although thease Must Have Been Playing Havoc with the Visibility for the Riders. Non the Less After Just One Retirement Earlier Due to an Engine Fire and a Marshall that should Have Really Been More Prepared. the Remaining Riders Soldered on.

 

The Fifth Hour was now Upon them and after a Very Hectic and Fast set of Laps Earlier Many Riders were setting down into their Positions to make sure the Bike they were on would Survive to the End. Druids was a Place to witness some Incredible Overtakes During this Time with the Light Levels Lowering and The Riders Really Looking like they were Pushing Hard and Encouraging their Machines to solder onto Victory.

 

Hour Six and with the Light Levels Now Falling even Lower it looked like this Endurance Race would be Ending in Nearly Dark Conditions as the Rider Kept on Going. The Few Retirement's Earlier on during Hour 2 and 3 were now just a Memory in the Surviving Riders Minds who all had One Goal in Mind. Get This Bike to the End of The Race.

 

Hour Seven and by now the Light was Nearly all But Gone with the Last Rays of Sunshine Disappearing Entirely from the Tops of Druids and yet Despite this now disadvantage i terms of Having a lot less light The Riders Still Continued to Push Hard and Fight their was To Victory in the Closing Stages as the Race Reached its Climax.

 

The Final Hour was Finally here and Every Rider who Had Been Concentrating Hard all Day was Now in a Position to Push Hard for that Final Hour of Glory that would mean the Difference Between either a Race Victory or a Race Loss. As The Minuets Slowly Ticked Down and The Last Light of Day Had been Long Extinguished from the Circuit. it was the Team of (Delkevic Racing's Liam Marchant / Gary Johnson / James Edwards and Luke Scott who took a Resounding Victory after 232 Laps and a Gruelling 8 Hour's of Racing 2 For Each of The Riders. Congratulations Delkevic Racing an Incredible Achievement.

 

In Second Place was The Team of (Earnshaw's Motorcycles Jonathan Lodge and James Lodge) after 232 Laps and 4 Hour's Between Them a Super Effort and Very Well Deserved Second Place Battle Through some Very Tough Competitors.

 

In Third Place was (Josh Daley Racing/RC Express by Dafabet Josh Daley and Rob Hodson) after a Very Hard and Gruelling 231 Laps in the Seat of Their Racing Bikes. Amazing Work Josh Daley Racing Incredible Ride and a Very Well Deserved Third Place.

 

An Exceptional Day of Endurance Racing from the No Limits Bike Racing Championship with Delkevic Racing's Liam Marchant / Gary Johnson / James Edwards and Luke Scott Taking The Final Victory of the Season with Datasys Racing Mark Daines / Jeremy Watson / Johnny Panter and Joe Higham taking The Championship for 2021.

 

A Big Congratulations to all of the Riders who took Part in this Event in my Opinion you Made everyone who Races in the Bennet's British Super Bike Championship look like Amateurs. You Guys are the Real Deal and am Really Looking forward to Watching this Epic Race all over Again Next Year. Until Then Keep Racing and Never Give Up Hope of One Day Standing on the Top Step of the Podium.

      

American Speedfest 8 Returned to Brands Hatch for another Fantastic American themed weekend Featuring the likes of Euro Nascar Legends and even Angelo American Formula 5000's Racing this weekender event was shaping up to be a good one.

 

The First Day was mostly focused on Qualifying with many of the Races taking Place on the Sunday. Each of the Teams was both busy in the outer Paddock and the Pitlane getting their cars ready for a shakedown session in which they would have to Qualify to see who could be the Fastest and take Pole Position for each of the Races come Sunday.

 

Angelo American Formula 5000

 

The Formula 5000's made a Thunderous return to the Brands Hatch circuit, Built during a time where many Formula 1 cars from the likes of Lotus Williams and McLaren we using Ground Effect and pushing up the speeds of their cars.

 

Formula 5000's took speeds to a whole new level by using V8 Engines to power their cars which were found to be even faster than those Formula 1 cars of that era on the straights of different race tracks. Chevron B37's and McRae GM1'S were amongst the field and Qualifying looked to be very close indeed.

 

In First Place taking Pole Position and The Fastest Lap was (Neil Glover) in his Chevron B37 with a Lap Time of 47.039 with an average speed of 92.44mph. An Insanely Fast Lap Time for Brands Hatches Indy Circuit.

 

In Second Place was (Mark Campfield) in his Chevron B24 with A Lap Time Of 47.694 and an Average Speed of 91.17mph still Impressively quick for Chevron Power.

 

In Third Place was (Greg Thornton) in his Chevron B24 with A Lap Time Of 47.775 with an Average Speed of 91.02mph showing the power of the Chevron Engine through every turn.

 

A Tightly Packed Grid for Sundays Race and it looks like its a Chevron Front Row lockout but who's car will have the power to Triumph over the others? only time will tell.

 

Bernie's Sports And V8's

 

Bernie's V8's were up next and showcased a lot of Impressive V8 Powered Machinery on the grid. Talbot Sunbeams, Austin Healey's and even MGB GT V8 powered Machinery hitting the Track during Qualifying. Lets see what V8 Power can do and which Drivers managed to tame the Beasts and make it into the top three.

 

In First Place Taking Pole Position and the Fastest Lap was the Duo of (Elis Mar/Elis Mat) in their Talbot Sunbeam Lotus with a Lap Time of 54.533 and an Average speed of 79.74mph. Fast and Furious Driving on display once again.

 

In Second Place was (James Plant) in his Austin Healey 106 with a Lap Time of 54.964 and an Average Speed of 79.11mph. Very Quick and Consistent Laps seen from James behind the wheel too.

 

In Third Place was the Duo of (Can/Wilson) in their Aston Martin V8 Vantage with a lap time of 55.397 and an Average speed of 78.49mph. Showing just how much power and Grunt that Aston has.

 

Another Fantastic set of V8 Powered Machines on Display showing the true power of the American Built V8'S and how they changed the game in terms of Racing and Road Going Cars. Who will win the Race on Sunday. Will have to wait and see.

 

Legends Cars Championship

 

Referred to as the Little Pocket Rockets these small Looking Cars may not loo like they have anything Special to offer but just wait until you see what these little Wolves in Sheep's clothing can do once out on the Track.

 

Using Motorbike Engines of 1200cc they Really do show on Track just how lightweight and fast they are and Slip Streaming is commonly a way of being able to Achieve a Faster Lap time by using the Driver in fronts Slip Stream to aid in the Aerodynamics of the Car and Reduce Drag. Lets see what Happened during Qualifying Heat 2

 

In First Place Taking Pole and Setting The Fastest Lap was (Chris Dewey) in his Legend with a Lap Time Of 56.700 with an Average Speed of 76.69mph. Crazy Fast for Something so small and yet very Agile in Control.

 

In Second Place was (Stephen Whitelegg) in his Legend 34 Ford Coupe with a Lap Time of 56.740 and an Average Speed of 76.64mph. First And Second look to be very close together Thanks to the aids in Slip Streaming down the Brabham Straight to gain positions or Fastest Laps.

 

In Third Place was (Miles Rudman) in his Legend 34 Coupe with a Lap Time Of 56.878. Very Close between the Top three and it just goes to show how Important Slip Streaming is to Gain an Advantage in this Qualifying Session.

 

Exciting Stuff Ahead of The

Legends Races on Sunday where One of the Drivers will Win the Race and Take the Victory, Who Will it be? Only Time Will Tell.

 

Nascar Whelen Euro Series-Pro

 

The Main Highlight Event of the Day and the Nascar's with their Thunderous Powered V8 Engines Roared onto the Indy Circuit and with Two Formation Laps Completed to Warm Up the Tyres every car was released to Start Qualifying. Lets See How the Grid Will Shape Up.

 

In First Place to Take Pole and The Fastest Lap was (Alon Day) in his Chevrolet Camaro Caal Racing with a Lap Time of 48.903 and an Average Speed of 88.92mph. I wonder if Marty McFly and Dock Brown were part of their Race Team to Achieve that Impressive Lap Time? Non the Less Amazing Work by Alon Day.

 

In Second Place was (Loris Hezemans) in his Ford Mustang Hedrik's Motorsport) with a Lap Time of 49.000 and an Average Speed of 88.74mph. Another Fast and Consistent Lap From Loris showing the Balance Between Driver and Car.

 

In Third Place was (Nicolo Rocca) in his Chevrolet Camaro DF1 Racing) with A Lap Time of 49.292 and an Average Speed of 88.22mph. All Three Drivers seem to be very close in terms of Lap Times and this will make for some Exciting Racing Come Race Day.

 

Close and Competitive Racing in Nascar-Pro but who will have the Power to Push even Harder and take Home The Victory come Race Day. We will have to wait and See.

 

EuroNascar-2

 

Euro Nascar-2 is A a series of Slightly Lower Tuned Nascar's that Features as a Way of Getting Drivers ready to head to the Big Time Nascar Racing that takes Place at Daytona and Indianapolis.

 

Drivers must First Prove themselves worthy by Starting out from the Bottom and Only The Best Drivers in the World can make it into Nascar's Top Level Racing Teams.

 

Lets See how the Grid Lines up and see who managed to Qualify the Fastest and take Pole Position.

 

In First Place and Taking Pole Position and The Fastest Lap was (Advait DeoDHar) in his Ford Mustang Caal Racing with A Lap Time Of 49.918 and An Average Speed of 87.11mph. A Really Well Controlled Lap and a very Focused Mind to Achieve such a Drive.

 

In Second Place was (Tobias Dauenhauer) in his Ford Mustang Hendriks Motorsport with a Lap Time Of 50.110 and an Average Speed Of 86.78mph. Really Well Done and a very Quick Driver and Car underneath Him.

 

In Third Place was (Justin Kunz ) in his Chevrolet Camaro DF1 Racing with A Lap Time Of 50.161. Very Fast and Consistent with the Top Three all Very Close and Ready to take on the Race and see who can Battle and Fight for a Victory.

 

An Exciting Qualifying Session for both Nascar-Pro and Euro Nascar-2 with Each set of Driver Showing the Speed Power and Machinery of the Great American State. Looking Forward To Seeing what Happens During The Race.

 

Pickup Trucks Championship

 

The Pickup Trucks Returned to Brands Hatch for Another High Speed Weekend of Flat Out Racing around the Indy Circuit. With Light Weight Chassis and Powerful Engines it was shaping up to be a very Large and Competitive Grid for Pickup Trucks.

 

In First Place Taking Pole Position and the Fastest Lap was (Reece Jones) in his Pick Up Truck 2000 with a Lap Time of 52.634 with an Average Speed of 82.61mph.

 

In Second Place was (George Turiccki) in his Pickup Truck 2000 with A Lap Time of 52.706mph and an average speed of 82.50mph.

 

In Third Place was (Mark Willis) in his Pickup Truck 2000 with A Lap Time of 52.976 and an Average Speed of 82.08mph.

 

Three Very Quick and Capable Drivers all Fighting for the Victory In Tomorrow's Race but who will be up to the challenge of Taking 1st Place and Winning. Only One Way To Find Out.

 

Speedfest Silhouettes

 

Formally Known as the Silhouettes the Super Silhouettes Brought with them some fast and impressive Space Frame Machinery to the track.

 

With Aero Packages and Light Weight Monacock Chassis these Monsters were going to be something Amazing to watch Race.

 

But First Lets See how Qualifying Shapes up.

 

In First Place Taking Pole and The Fastest Lap was (Ray Harris in his Ginetta G40r with a Lap Time of 50.564 and an Average speed of 86.00mph. Either Crazy or Insane I would Describe that Incredible Lap of Brands. Amazing Work.

 

In Second Place was (Malcom Blackman) in his Vauxhall Tigra with A Lap Time of 50.805 and an Average Speed of 85.59mph Another Crazy Quick and on the Edge Lap.

 

In Third Place was (Lewis Smith) in his Mercedes SLK with a Lap Time of 51.313 and an Average Speed of 84.74mph. Three Very Fast and Capable Drivers in this Qualifying Session.

 

Incredible Speed and Fast Reflex Driving From Each Driver out there. It will be Exciting to see who can bring home a Victory and push their Machinery past its Limits and into New Territory. Another Race I'm Looking Forward to Seeing.

 

A Brilliant End to the Days Qualifying and seeing all that Machinery out there was Fantastic. Congratulations to all of the Qualifiers who made the Top Three in Every Support Race. Looking Ford To Tomorrow and a Very Fierce Set Of Battles Thought the Day.

Boundaries are broken, limits are tested, the law has been broken. We live once. We play it safe, we dare even to think of walking on the wild side.

 

They don't like it? Who cares! That smile on your face and look in your eyes sparks the flame!

 

Don't live your life by someone else's rules. Follow your own path, create your own rules, set your own boundaries, You live for you, not them.

American Speedfest 8 Returned to Brands Hatch for another Fantastic American themed weekend Featuring the likes of Euro Nascar Legends and even Angelo American Formula 5000's Racing this weekender event was shaping up to be a good one.

 

The First Day was mostly focused on Qualifying with many of the Races taking Place on the Sunday. Each of the Teams was both busy in the outer Paddock and the Pitlane getting their cars ready for a shakedown session in which they would have to Qualify to see who could be the Fastest and take Pole Position for each of the Races come Sunday.

 

Angelo American Formula 5000

 

The Formula 5000's made a Thunderous return to the Brands Hatch circuit, Built during a time where many Formula 1 cars from the likes of Lotus Williams and McLaren we using Ground Effect and pushing up the speeds of their cars.

 

Formula 5000's took speeds to a whole new level by using V8 Engines to power their cars which were found to be even faster than those Formula 1 cars of that era on the straights of different race tracks. Chevron B37's and McRae GM1'S were amongst the field and Qualifying looked to be very close indeed.

 

In First Place taking Pole Position and The Fastest Lap was (Neil Glover) in his Chevron B37 with a Lap Time of 47.039 with an average speed of 92.44mph. An Insanely Fast Lap Time for Brands Hatches Indy Circuit.

 

In Second Place was (Mark Campfield) in his Chevron B24 with A Lap Time Of 47.694 and an Average Speed of 91.17mph still Impressively quick for Chevron Power.

 

In Third Place was (Greg Thornton) in his Chevron B24 with A Lap Time Of 47.775 with an Average Speed of 91.02mph showing the power of the Chevron Engine through every turn.

 

A Tightly Packed Grid for Sundays Race and it looks like its a Chevron Front Row lockout but who's car will have the power to Triumph over the others? only time will tell.

 

Bernie's Sports And V8's

 

Bernie's V8's were up next and showcased a lot of Impressive V8 Powered Machinery on the grid. Talbot Sunbeams, Austin Healey's and even MGB GT V8 powered Machinery hitting the Track during Qualifying. Lets see what V8 Power can do and which Drivers managed to tame the Beasts and make it into the top three.

 

In First Place Taking Pole Position and the Fastest Lap was the Duo of (Elis Mar/Elis Mat) in their Talbot Sunbeam Lotus with a Lap Time of 54.533 and an Average speed of 79.74mph. Fast and Furious Driving on display once again.

 

In Second Place was (James Plant) in his Austin Healey 106 with a Lap Time of 54.964 and an Average Speed of 79.11mph. Very Quick and Consistent Laps seen from James behind the wheel too.

 

In Third Place was the Duo of (Can/Wilson) in their Aston Martin V8 Vantage with a lap time of 55.397 and an Average speed of 78.49mph. Showing just how much power and Grunt that Aston has.

 

Another Fantastic set of V8 Powered Machines on Display showing the true power of the American Built V8'S and how they changed the game in terms of Racing and Road Going Cars. Who will win the Race on Sunday. Will have to wait and see.

 

Legends Cars Championship

 

Referred to as the Little Pocket Rockets these small Looking Cars may not loo like they have anything Special to offer but just wait until you see what these little Wolves in Sheep's clothing can do once out on the Track.

 

Using Motorbike Engines of 1200cc they Really do show on Track just how lightweight and fast they are and Slip Streaming is commonly a way of being able to Achieve a Faster Lap time by using the Driver in fronts Slip Stream to aid in the Aerodynamics of the Car and Reduce Drag. Lets see what Happened during Qualifying Heat 2

 

In First Place Taking Pole and Setting The Fastest Lap was (Chris Dewey) in his Legend with a Lap Time Of 56.700 with an Average Speed of 76.69mph. Crazy Fast for Something so small and yet very Agile in Control.

 

In Second Place was (Stephen Whitelegg) in his Legend 34 Ford Coupe with a Lap Time of 56.740 and an Average Speed of 76.64mph. First And Second look to be very close together Thanks to the aids in Slip Streaming down the Brabham Straight to gain positions or Fastest Laps.

 

In Third Place was (Miles Rudman) in his Legend 34 Coupe with a Lap Time Of 56.878. Very Close between the Top three and it just goes to show how Important Slip Streaming is to Gain an Advantage in this Qualifying Session.

 

Exciting Stuff Ahead of The

Legends Races on Sunday where One of the Drivers will Win the Race and Take the Victory, Who Will it be? Only Time Will Tell.

 

Nascar Whelen Euro Series-Pro

 

The Main Highlight Event of the Day and the Nascar's with their Thunderous Powered V8 Engines Roared onto the Indy Circuit and with Two Formation Laps Completed to Warm Up the Tyres every car was released to Start Qualifying. Lets See How the Grid Will Shape Up.

 

In First Place to Take Pole and The Fastest Lap was (Alon Day) in his Chevrolet Camaro Caal Racing with a Lap Time of 48.903 and an Average Speed of 88.92mph. I wonder if Marty McFly and Dock Brown were part of their Race Team to Achieve that Impressive Lap Time? Non the Less Amazing Work by Alon Day.

 

In Second Place was (Loris Hezemans) in his Ford Mustang Hedrik's Motorsport) with a Lap Time of 49.000 and an Average Speed of 88.74mph. Another Fast and Consistent Lap From Loris showing the Balance Between Driver and Car.

 

In Third Place was (Nicolo Rocca) in his Chevrolet Camaro DF1 Racing) with A Lap Time of 49.292 and an Average Speed of 88.22mph. All Three Drivers seem to be very close in terms of Lap Times and this will make for some Exciting Racing Come Race Day.

 

Close and Competitive Racing in Nascar-Pro but who will have the Power to Push even Harder and take Home The Victory come Race Day. We will have to wait and See.

 

EuroNascar-2

 

Euro Nascar-2 is A a series of Slightly Lower Tuned Nascar's that Features as a Way of Getting Drivers ready to head to the Big Time Nascar Racing that takes Place at Daytona and Indianapolis.

 

Drivers must First Prove themselves worthy by Starting out from the Bottom and Only The Best Drivers in the World can make it into Nascar's Top Level Racing Teams.

 

Lets See how the Grid Lines up and see who managed to Qualify the Fastest and take Pole Position.

 

In First Place and Taking Pole Position and The Fastest Lap was (Advait DeoDHar) in his Ford Mustang Caal Racing with A Lap Time Of 49.918 and An Average Speed of 87.11mph. A Really Well Controlled Lap and a very Focused Mind to Achieve such a Drive.

 

In Second Place was (Tobias Dauenhauer) in his Ford Mustang Hendriks Motorsport with a Lap Time Of 50.110 and an Average Speed Of 86.78mph. Really Well Done and a very Quick Driver and Car underneath Him.

 

In Third Place was (Justin Kunz ) in his Chevrolet Camaro DF1 Racing with A Lap Time Of 50.161. Very Fast and Consistent with the Top Three all Very Close and Ready to take on the Race and see who can Battle and Fight for a Victory.

 

An Exciting Qualifying Session for both Nascar-Pro and Euro Nascar-2 with Each set of Driver Showing the Speed Power and Machinery of the Great American State. Looking Forward To Seeing what Happens During The Race.

 

Pickup Trucks Championship

 

The Pickup Trucks Returned to Brands Hatch for Another High Speed Weekend of Flat Out Racing around the Indy Circuit. With Light Weight Chassis and Powerful Engines it was shaping up to be a very Large and Competitive Grid for Pickup Trucks.

 

In First Place Taking Pole Position and the Fastest Lap was (Reece Jones) in his Pick Up Truck 2000 with a Lap Time of 52.634 with an Average Speed of 82.61mph.

 

In Second Place was (George Turiccki) in his Pickup Truck 2000 with A Lap Time of 52.706mph and an average speed of 82.50mph.

 

In Third Place was (Mark Willis) in his Pickup Truck 2000 with A Lap Time of 52.976 and an Average Speed of 82.08mph.

 

Three Very Quick and Capable Drivers all Fighting for the Victory In Tomorrow's Race but who will be up to the challenge of Taking 1st Place and Winning. Only One Way To Find Out.

 

Speedfest Silhouettes

 

Formally Known as the Silhouettes the Super Silhouettes Brought with them some fast and impressive Space Frame Machinery to the track.

 

With Aero Packages and Light Weight Monacock Chassis these Monsters were going to be something Amazing to watch Race.

 

But First Lets See how Qualifying Shapes up.

 

In First Place Taking Pole and The Fastest Lap was (Ray Harris in his Ginetta G40r with a Lap Time of 50.564 and an Average speed of 86.00mph. Either Crazy or Insane I would Describe that Incredible Lap of Brands. Amazing Work.

 

In Second Place was (Malcom Blackman) in his Vauxhall Tigra with A Lap Time of 50.805 and an Average Speed of 85.59mph Another Crazy Quick and on the Edge Lap.

 

In Third Place was (Lewis Smith) in his Mercedes SLK with a Lap Time of 51.313 and an Average Speed of 84.74mph. Three Very Fast and Capable Drivers in this Qualifying Session.

 

Incredible Speed and Fast Reflex Driving From Each Driver out there. It will be Exciting to see who can bring home a Victory and push their Machinery past its Limits and into New Territory. Another Race I'm Looking Forward to Seeing.

 

A Brilliant End to the Days Qualifying and seeing all that Machinery out there was Fantastic. Congratulations to all of the Qualifiers who made the Top Three in Every Support Race. Looking Ford To Tomorrow and a Very Fierce Set Of Battles Thought the Day.

WPT Alpha 8 Florida (S2) Day 1

Source: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philadelphia

 

Philadelphia, commonly referred to as Philly, is the most populous city in the U.S. state of Pennsylvania and the second-most populous city in the Northeast megalopolis and Mid-Atlantic regions after New York City. Philadelphia is known for its extensive contributions to United States history, especially the American Revolution, and served as the nation's capital until 1800. It maintains contemporary influence in business and industry, culture, sports, and music. Philadelphia is the nation's sixth-most populous city with a population of 1,603,797 as of the 2020 census and is the urban core of the larger Delaware Valley (or Philadelphia metropolitan area), the nation's seventh-largest and one of the world's largest metropolitan regions consisting of 6.245 million residents in the metropolitan statistical area and 7.366 million residents in its combined statistical area.

 

Philadelphia was founded in 1682 by William Penn, an English Quaker and advocate of religious freedom. The city served as the capital of the Pennsylvania Colony during the British colonial era and went on to play a historic and vital role as the central meeting place for the nation's founding fathers whose plans and actions in Philadelphia ultimately inspired the American Revolution and the nation's independence following the Revolutionary War. Philadelphia hosted the First Continental Congress in 1774, preserved the Liberty Bell, and hosted the Second Continental Congress during which the founders signed the Declaration of Independence, which historian Joseph Ellis has described as "the most potent and consequential words in American history". Once the Revolutionary War commenced, the Battle of Germantown and the siege of Fort Mifflin were fought within Philadelphia's city limits. The U.S. Constitution was later ratified in Philadelphia at the Philadelphia Convention of 1787. Philadelphia remained the nation's largest city until 1790, when it was surpassed by New York City, and it served as the nation's first capital from May 10, 1775, until December 12, 1776, and on four subsequent occasions during and following the American Revolution, including from 1790 to 1800 during the construction of the new national capital of Washington, D.C.

 

With 18 four-year universities and colleges, Philadelphia is one of the nation's leading centers for higher education and academic research. As of 2018, the Philadelphia metropolitan area was the state's largest and nation's ninth-largest metropolitan economy with a gross metropolitan product of US$444.1 billion. The city is home to five Fortune 500 corporate headquarters as of 2022. As of 2023, metropolitan Philadelphia ranks among the top five U.S. venture capital centers, facilitated by its proximity to New York City's entrepreneurial and financial ecosystems. The Philadelphia Stock Exchange, owned by Nasdaq since 2008, is the nation's oldest stock exchange and a global leader in options trading. 30th Street Station, the city's primary rail station, is the third-busiest Amtrak hub in the nation, and the city's multimodal transport and logistics infrastructure, includes Philadelphia International Airport, and the rapidly-growing PhilaPort seaport. A migration pattern has been established from New York City to Philadelphia by residents opting for a large city with relative proximity and a lower cost of living.

 

Philadelphia is a national cultural center, hosting more outdoor sculptures and murals than any other city in the nation. Fairmount Park, when combined with adjacent Wissahickon Valley Park in the same watershed, is 2,052 acres (830 ha), representing one of the nation's largest and the world's 45th-largest urban park. The city is known for its arts, culture, cuisine, and colonial and Revolution-era history; in 2016, it attracted 42 million domestic tourists who spent $6.8 billion, representing $11 billion in economic impact to the city and its surrounding Pennsylvania counties.

 

With five professional sports teams and one of the nation's most loyal fan bases, Philadelphia is often ranked as the nation's best city for professional sports fans. The city has a culturally and philanthropically active LGBTQ+ community. Philadelphia also has played an immensely influential historic and ongoing role in the development and evolution of American music, especially R&B, soul, and rock.

 

Philadelphia is a city of many firsts, including the nation's first library (1731), hospital (1751), medical school (1765), national capital (1774), university (by some accounts) (1779), stock exchange (1790), zoo (1874), and business school (1881). Philadelphia contains 67 National Historic Landmarks, including Independence Hall. From the city's 17th century founding through the present, Philadelphia has been the birthplace or home to an extensive number of prominent and influential Americans. In 2021, Time magazine named Philadelphia one of the world's greatest 100 places.

 

Source: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philadelphia_City_Hall

 

Philadelphia City Hall is the seat of the municipal government of the City of Philadelphia in the U.S. state of Pennsylvania. Built in the ornate Second Empire style, City Hall houses the chambers of the Philadelphia City Council and the offices of the Mayor of Philadelphia.

 

This building is also a courthouse, serving as the seat of the First Judicial District of Pennsylvania. It houses the Civil Trial and Orphans' Court Divisions of the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia County. It also houses the Philadelphia facilities for the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania (which also holds session and accepts filings in Harrisburg and Pittsburgh).

 

Built using brick, white marble and limestone, Philadelphia City Hall is the world's largest free-standing masonry building and was the world's tallest habitable building upon its completion in 1894. It was designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1976; in 2006, it was also named a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark by the American Society of Civil Engineers.

 

Additional Foreign Language Tags:

 

(United States) "الولايات المتحدة" "Vereinigte Staaten" "アメリカ" "美国" "미국" "Estados Unidos" "États-Unis"

 

(Pennsylvania) "بنسلفانيا" "宾夕法尼亚州" "Pennsylvanie" "पेंसिल्वेनिया" "ペンシルベニア" "펜실베니아" "Пенсильвания" "Pensilvania"

 

(Philadelphia) "فيلادلفيا" "费城" "Philadelphie" "फिलाडेल्फिया" "フィラデルフィア" "필라델피아" "Филадельфия" "Filadelfia"