Lots of the locals get a kick out of this event too. The The fine drink and lunchen establishment on the left side of the street has even rolled out the portable barbeque for the occasion, so we could have brats, burgers and pork chop sandwiches without missing any of the fun. This is a great way to spend the afternoon after a "stiff collar" morning car show, either driving or watching.
If the revving engines and screaching tires aren't your cup of tea, there will also be some self-guided tour/rally event(s) to occupy your time. And of course there is always plenty to see just cruising the side roads and smaller towns of Knox County and the surrounding area.
The Famous Abingdon Gymkhana
To be held on Main Street in Abingdon
Saturday, August 16, 2003
immediately following the car show.
Being neither a race nor a rally, this is a test of driving skill. You will have no notes to keep and no navigator to argue with. This will be strictly between you and your MG, and of course the clock. You will not be required to stop or back up to negotiate the course. The street will be closed and restricted so you will have sole custody of the course while you are driving. If you can find second gear you can have fun with this event. You may keep in mind that pylons (orange rubber traffic cones) are designed to be run over by automobiles, although we don’t encourage it (much).
Of course there have to be some rules, yes?
1.) ENTRY TO THE GYMKHANA is included in your registration for the Abingdon Summer Party. No additional fee is required, but only cars registered for Abingdon Summer Party will be allowed to participate. Your car show entry number placard will be the entry ticket for the gymkhana. Two drivers (registered for Abingdon Summer Party) will be allowed to sign up to drive one registered car (not at the same time of course). Each driver must have a valid driver’s license to participate. Everyone having registered for Abingdon Summer Party will have already signed the liability waiver with the registration. No separate waiver will be required at the gymkhana. Minors must have the waiver signed by a parent or legal guardian. Drivers will be required to walk the course at least once prior the the start of the event, so don’t be late.
2.) USE OF A SAFETY HELMET will be required during the driving of this event. Please bring your own helmet if you have one. There may be a few helmets available on a personal loaner basis, but you can imagine how “damp” these can get inside when being passed around all afternoon on a hot day. If most folks can bring their own helmet the event will flow much better with minimal interruption, and we will be able to have more seat time.
3.) YOUR CAR MUST BE EQUIPPED WITH A DRIVER’S SEAT BELT which must be worn during the driving of this event. Lap belts are acceptable, although a five point safety harness will not get you disqualified.
4.) PASSENGERS will not be allowed during the official timed runs, although an approved instructor may go along if requested. If there is time for additional fun runs after the official timed runs are finished, then you may carry a passenger, but the passenger must also wear a seatbelt and a safety helmet.
5.) A SIMPLE SAFETY INSPECTION must be passed by your car prior to entry in this event. The following items must all be in order with NO EXCEPTIONS:
a.) The battery (or batteries) must be mounted securely (this is the number one cause of tech failure). Each battery must be clamped down, not just sitting loosely in the battery box or carrier.
b.) All wheel studs and lug nuts must be in place and secure. For the splined hub types the knockoffs must be tight, and we would hope on the correct side of the car, so that “Undo” does not undo. Spokes in wire wheels must be in good condition. One missing wheel nut or more than one loose or missing spoke is grounds for tech failure.
c.) The engine compartment will be inspected for safety items. Of primary concern are operational throttle return springs, proper fluid level in the brake reservoir, nothing loose on or around the engine that might fall off, and no excessive fluid leaks. This last item is largely a matter of common judgement, but if you don’t like stepping in it, then we probably won’t like it either.
d.) There will be nothing loose allowed on or in the car or in the boot. Spare tires, tool kits, side curtains, and other “original equipment” parts of the car which could be loose or removed from the car are optional, but if they remain in the car they must be fastened down securely.
That’s about it for the rules. Have a safe day, and we hope you will enjoy this event.
