In an exhilarating showcase of grit and determination, Wallace Menzies made a triumphant return to form in the British Hillclimb Championship at Harewood last weekend. His victory marked the first top 12 run-off success since his last win at Wiscombe Park in July 2023, a victory that has been a long time in the making. For Menzies, this win is not just a number on the scoreboard; it symbolizes the rebirth of a competitive spirit that had been dimmed by a serious accident during the season opener at Craigantlet. After spending 2024 battling back to form without a single win for the first time in ten years, this victory feels like a testament to Menzies’ unwavering resolve.
Menzies, a seasoned four-time champion, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the support and hard work that propelled him back to victory. “This is pretty sweet,” said Menzies, his happiness evident. “I’m super pleased with that. Everyone has worked so hard to get us back to where we are.” His elation reflects not only a personal achievement but also the collective effort of his team, reinforcing the notion that success in motorsport is rarely the work of one, but rather a symphony composed by many.
The Art of Tyre Management
What made the Harewood event particularly dynamic was the scorching May sun and the abrasive surface of the hill, which transformed tyre management into a strategic art form. The uncertainty surrounding tyre supply, with fresh stock of Nova rubber not expected until July, has led drivers to adopt a calculus of conservation, leveraging existing tyres to maximize performance. Menzies and his team entered the event with a well-defined strategy, carefully choosing when to utilize their tyres. This tactical foresight proved pivotal in a run-off where the times were notably slower than expected—Menzies set a 47.40s lap, narrowly besting rival Matt Ryder by a mere 0.013 seconds.
Tyre strategies became hot topics among competitors, especially considering the fierce competition. Ryder’s decision to run on warmed tyres from the previous run was termed a “wrong call”, an acknowledgment of the thin margins dictated by tyre conditions. As Menzies’ strategy culminated in success, it accentuates the essential balance between risk and prudence in racing—a delicate dance that can easily swing the outcomes in either direction.
A Battle of Wits and Speed
The excitement of the day was amplified not just by Menzies’ victory but by the fierce head-to-head racing that took place amongst competitors. Sean Gould, who shared his vehicle with Ryder, placed a strong third, showcasing the depth of talent that exists within the field. Meanwhile, Will Hall and Trevor Willis battled fiercely for supremacy, demonstrating the competitive spirit that elevates hill climbs to dramatic spectacles.
The second run-off saw Ryder making a tactical change to his rear tyres after observing Menzies’ earlier round. Ryder clocked a 47.49s but felt his run lacked the precision needed for podium contention, reflecting the ever-persistent pressure to adapt on the fly in motorsport. His frustration is palpable, as he conceded, “My second run-off was smooth and clean, but just too safe.” Such admissions reveal the mental intensity faced by drivers, where not only speed is a determinant but also instinct and the ability to read shifting race conditions.
A Promising Landscape Ahead
Harewood became a breeding ground for emerging talent, echoing a sentiment that the future of hillclimbing is bright. Young drivers like Jack Cottrill, with impressive finishes, exemplify a new wave of racers challenging traditional rankings. With veterans like Menzies leading the charge, this melting pot of experience and youthful ambition lays an exciting foundation for the future of the sport.
With each event, the competition intensifies, and as the season unfolds, fans can expect to witness not just fast cars, but stories of resilience, strategy, and community. Menzies’ return to victory—set against a backdrop of strategic tyre management and intense rivalries—serves as a relevant reminder that motorsport is not merely about speed; it’s a multi-layered narrative marked by human endeavor, teamwork, and the relentless pursuit of excellence that draws everyone to the hill.