After competing at the Nationals Supersprint, I am not sure about driving the car any more.

Even though I am not quite as 'sharp' as I was when I started racing, 55 years ago, and despite not feeling too well, the day end up OK. Having often told myself I would know when to 'give it away', perhaps that time has arrived

The problem now is what to do with a '59, drum-brake, swing-axle Beetle ? Is it too 'Old School' for most people ?

I am open to [sensible] suggestions.



G.M.

I'm not sure what to say other then if some one else becomes the driver I hope it gets used for the intended purpose end keeps that old school bug racer flag flying....
Good luck greg....

Fabo.

At last- straight line racing and it's all over in a few seconds.Thats what us old blokes are used to these days in most things we used to be good at.

Thanks Chris...and NO, Gary - I won't be dressing up in women's clothes, to go drag racing.

get someone else young to race it, someone that is into old school racing.

I'm only 13 and would love to race it, but i suppose i cant because i dont have my license yet

Hi Greg,

Always deeply admired the fact that you have a long history of racing and continue to do it. For me there are two main questions:

1. Do you still enjoy it? Feeling unwell on that particular day might have just been bad luck, and might not be repeated.
2. Did you endanger anyone (including yourself)?

If you don't present any greater risk to people at the circuit than anyone else and still enjoy it then keep going. As soon as you stop enjoying it or start being dangerous, it's time to have another think.

Cheers
Craig

adlbeetle66...you are at the opposite end of the scale [lucky b.]. I've got 61 years on you. Plenty of time for you to to learn, and gain experience.

Craig S...you've probably nailed it. I don't think I am old, but that may be wishfull thinking. I probably treat my old cars [1924, and 1934] with more care than I treat myself.

^^ ^^

Thanks Greg, will keep practising.. at the moment I've only been practising in my uncles 100 acre farm

Greg, never, EVER, [size=6]EVER[/size] let the car go.

Even if you get too old to drive it, you're never too old to get scared shitless by your kids driving it!

Keep it man, it is yours and yours alone.

Quote:

Originally posted by modnrod Greg, never, EVER, [size=6]EVER[/size] let the car go. Even if you get too old to drive it, you're never too old to get scared shitless by your kids driving it! Keep it man, it is yours and yours alone.

All jokes aside Greg- you are a very clever and astute bloke,you will know when and if you need to give it up.I have a mate here who is 70 and he is still racing his EH with a hot 202 and he doesn't look like throwing in the towel any time soon- in fact he has the head off at the moment looking for more HP.Hope the little blue pills aren't clouding your judgement

That's right, Gary...I felt the same way when I was 70 . Now, 4 years later, I'm not so sure. I don't want to wait until I become a danger to myself and others.

Trouble is I've just turned 70 and like to have a day out club racing at Baskerville here in Tasmania.

At the moment am building a nice new engine for Herbie.

Now on race days I promise myself and the wife that I am only going out for a bit of fun, just happy to circulate at a constant speed, stay out of trouble and come home.

Then comes the "moment" brain forgets it's 70 and still thinks it's in its 20's. Fortunately lots of experience keeps me from getting into too much trouble and car not fast enough to be up front of field.

I'll give up when the fun has gone, that will probable mean I will be racing my mobility scooter with the old guy up the road.

I doubt very much you will ever be a danger to yourself or others Greg.

Sounds like you need another outing to either confirm or dismiss the way you felt at the Nationals.

I hope you continue to race...................and remember you are far, far safer on the track with other enthusiasts and all the safety associated with a race meeting.............. than driving down to the local for Saturday arvo bingo!!!

No.8 is a masterpiece.......wont be hard for it to find a new home. How much $ ?

I hear they make a great lawn display.
Just kidding keep doing it as long as you enjoy it and can do it

Hi Greg

This decision couldn't have come lightly. I just want to say thanks for what you have done for the VW community and the wider racing community, I hope we still see you around the scene.

Cheers Steve

Find a driver and you become his mentor pit crew?
Still involved car still running young talent gets a break?
Mitchell

As your tag line says Greg....
I'm sure that's not just the car.
If you think its time, you'll know exactly when, but don't stop until you know your ready.
Maybe the mentoring is a good way to keep enjoying the input to your favourite sport, especially the wealth of knowledge you've gained from experience, whether in No.8 or with someone with another car.
Many happy years ahead mate, whatever you chose.

It is great to have so much encouragement, from so many...some I know, some I don't. Thanks all ! [Will call you, Henry].

Decided to take ol' No.8 down to Marulan for the GEAR club track day last week. Had a ball...2nd fastest. Retirement on hold for now.

Good stuff.

Have you got the "number 8" tattooed in the centre of your chest yet?

Great stuff greg! You must be pretty sharp still, because some of those MG boys know how too steer!

Fabulous work!
Great to hear