ELEVEN DAYS: Clubman 2

Clubman 2 is a group that’s sure to surprise and excite. Of the ten cars contesting this group, eight of them are BMW 318ti, the vehicle of choice in the popular Bimma Cup. Straight away, you’ve got the formula for a close and competitive group. While the cars might be relatively stock, some of the drivers are highly modified.

This class is so highly competitive, it’s difficult to pick a clear favourite. Allan Kinch won the class in the Carter’s Pit Stop Stages, and looked to be in fine fettle while doing so. Definitely no slouch behind the wheel, his attacking driving is a hit with fans. Last year’s class winner for Sol Rally Barbados, Stuart Garcia will no doubt be looking to repeat that success. Derek Edwards has been tipped to be one to watch, with his maximum attack driving style which is fun to watch…especially in the wet.

Spencer Hutchinson is another member of the BMW brigade. Constantly improving, he should be in the mix for a high finishing place in the class. Luke Cozier is capable of a good class result, and will no doubt be looking to realize his potential. Eric Allamby is back. That’s right, that Eric Allamby. Best known for his sideways exploits in a Mitsubishi Lancer, Eric’s entry into this class has thrown the proverbial cat among the pigeons. His first unofficial outing back (courtesy of a friendly bet) put everyone on notice, and we’re definitely looking forward to what he has in store. Trinidad & Tobago’s Stuart Johnson add his BMW 318ti to the mix as well. He’ll have to get up to pace quickly, as this group promises to be set for an epic showdown. England’s Russel Smith finds himself in the same position as Johnson. His BMW 318ti being the eighth in the class.

Image courtesy NVWT photography

Clubman 2 isn’t an all-boys club, however. There are three females competing: one driver and two co-drivers. Cheryl Spencer will be back in her Vauxhall Astra, with Barry calling the pace notes. Cheryl has been determined to return to Sol Rally Barbados, and as such has been on a major sponsorship drive. Thankfully it has paid off and she’ll be back this year. As an added treat, the new livery on the Astra is quite stunning. Kari bates will be calling the notes for Graham Haigh in his Ford Escort MkII. They pair will be making their Sol Rally Barbados debut. Tammy Lashley will be co-driving for the aforementioned Luke Cozier.

Stiff competition is expected in the second tier of the Clubman class throughout the duration of Sol Rally Barbados. As with all close groups, mistakes will be punished severely, so the balance between aggression and caution will have to be maintained as best as possible.I’m not even going to try to predict a winner, but I’ll surely be keeping a keen eye on the timesheets.