Three Towns Forum
The Local => Local News & Discussion => Topic started by: Dave on October 14, 2011, 08:41:39 am
-
I missed the Cambrian rally as I was away. How did they manage the event in terms of preventing people walking on to the Orme ?
Today they are holding Mini Britannia and Marine drive is closed again. I believe the cars are expected around the Orme around 3.00pm, or so I was told on the toll gate on Wednesday.
http://www.tourbritannia.com/news/ (http://www.tourbritannia.com/news/) 2011/7/17/mini-britannia-announced-autumn-2011.html
Can you believe those entry fees !
-
Just realised there is a Great Orme thread now however instead of rally cars there are photo's of dumper trucks, the dug up beach and a sign saying Marine Dr is closed.The only reference to the rally appears to be the litter and an hole in the wall (Obviously made an impact on the town then !)
-
There are a few posts under WALKING:
http://threetownsforum.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,33.msg36765.html#msg36765 (http://threetownsforum.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,33.msg36765.html#msg36765)
Apparently, the Wales Rally GB will be covered by ESPN, which should be good for the town.
-
Ralio+ on S4C will also be showing the rally over the weekend (with english subtitles)
http://bit.ly/qlldmq (http://bit.ly/qlldmq)
-
Thanks for the link, I would never have found it under "walking" !
-
the Cambrian rally should be featuring next week (20th) $walesflag$
-
There's no way they can enforce it, there are many hidden ways up on to the Orme... ;)
I notice CCBC will be closing all roads, bridleways and footpaths leading up the Great Orme while the Wales Rally GB 2011 is on.
-
Seems very wrong to me to close all access and I like rallying, but I'm not paying the such a high entry fee as they want!
-
There's no way they can enforce it, there are many hidden ways up on to the Orme... ;)
I notice CCBC will be closing all roads, bridleways and footpaths leading up the Great Orme while the Wales Rally GB 2011 is on.
They'll nooooo tek ma freedom...to walk on the Orme.
-
DaveR, the Acting Head of Legal Services states "No alternative route will be available" so it may prove to be a major problem with enforcement action for those who disobey the Order. $angry1$
-
There are no common rights on the land. The County Borough Council, as manager of the land,
has rights of access to all parts of the site.
Since May 2005 parts of the Great Orme have been designated Access land under provisions
of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000. This allows for access on foot to the area of
land shown in Map 3.
Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 gives the Council all the powers in the World to prevent anyone using or otherwise the area of access land which covers the whole Orme apart from the residential areas.
Seems to me that the Council have had to almost give blood to get the Lombard here!
-
I see no reason why the enjoyment of the many should be curtailed for the pleasure of a few. ;)
-
Just so that I (we) understand -
Are the few, the Motoring Fanatics or the people who just like to enjoy the Orme for what it is? $thanx$
-
I'm both :laugh:
-
A few weeks ago we received a letter through the door from the council saying they were closing the Orme off to traffic on the day of the Rally and that here were some nice stickers to put in the window of the car to say your a resident and the allow us access to property we already own or are paying for and on roads that we are paying rather a lot of community charge for. To compensate us for any discomfort on the day they did however say that there were 2 tickets to watch the Rally and that we should go down to Venue Cymru to pick up the tickets. We went down there today only to be told that because the letters from the council that we needed to present to the Venue didn't have our address on them (generic letter but address on the envelope) that the Venue had said "there's no way we can stop somebody coming in time after time with a copy of the letter and taking away another 2 tickets". As a result every house on the Orme should now be receiving 2 tickets to the rally through the post whether they want them or not. The words Black and Market spring to mind. Just how much pre thought ( I feel the answer maybe "none" ) has gone into the planning of allowing residents of the Orme access to the Rally.
-
I wonder why nobody at Venue Cymru did not consider giving you a pair of complimentary tickets and retain the letter.
Alternatively, Venue Cymru could have written a big tick across the letter and handed it back to you.
-
I wonder why nobody at Venue Cymru did not consider giving you a pair of complimentary tickets and retain the letter.
Alternatively, Venue Cymru could have written a big tick across the letter and handed it back to you.
Much too simple a solution! _))* _))*
-
It wouldn't stop someone photocopying the letter before they went in for the tickets.
-
You have seen the letter so would it not have to be a colour photocopy rather than a B&W?
In which case, anyone so inclined could also photocopy the complimentary entrance ticket.
-
Can anyone help me find information on dates and times when access to the Great Orme is restricted.
We usually pay a visit to Llandudno before Christmas which includes checking family graves at St Tudnos.
(Hope the headstones have not been inspected this year and sprouted fence stobs).
If access to St Tudnos by car is barred surely they can not stop us walking, eg Monks path then over the summit.
-
I'm not sure about access on foot but non resident road access via Old Road and Ty Gwyn Road will be closed from 6am to 6pm on the 10th of November
-
Monk’s path and all other pathways will be closed from 6pm on Wednesday, 9 November to midnight on Thursday, 10 November.
-
What we need is ACTION by our Councillors to preserve the Status Quo and ensure that the daily rights we normally have are preserved and not destroyed by these gas guzzling interlopers.
Or we could march on the Orme with a large group of locals who have a similar interest. Maybe the NWWN could mount a campaign and give it the publicity it deserves?
-
You'll only get publicity from the NWWN if you pay for. I think we've established that anything which concerns local issues or indeed anything remotely interesting to local residents will not get print space with the NWWN unless released by a: the Council or b: the Police.
-
Let the rally have the orme for one day .
-
What if you needed to work up there then?
-
Or visit your Grandfather's grave on his Birthday! Z**
-
We have freedom to roam in Scotland,thank god for that.
If national security is not threatened, NO ONE has the right to restrict your access.
I am sure most people would have the sense not to walk on the rally route and this blanket ban on the Great Orme has more to do with getting people to pay for access than any other reason.
If they intend to charge for special parking areas , entertainment etc ,no problem for those who want it but why should everyone else be denied enjoyment of one of the best areas of open space in North Wales.
End of rant.
-
Exactly. Simply close off the Marine Drive and access points onto it from the Orme. The rest can remain open.
-
Exactly. Simply close off the Marine Drive and access points onto it from the Orme. The rest can remain open.
I agree 100% it is all about the money, the rally coming here is great and I was looking forward to it (until I saw the ludicrous charges!) but to say the Orme is out of bounds is outrageous!
Also if you live on the Orme does that mean you can have no visitors on that day? If I should wish to visit friends who live on the Orme I'm not allowed to??!
-
Eerrrr ------ Eerrr ------ I was hoping to welcome 214 members of the Miniature golf Association to Llwynon Road on that day. All booked up and paid. ----- Should I go and visit a good Solicitor?
-
Also if you live on the Orme does that mean you can have no visitors on that day? If I should wish to visit friends who live on the Orme I'm not allowed to??!
If you can convince the Stewards on Ty Mawr Road that that is your intention, then they will let you pass.
They have been told to stop all traffic and turn away any car looking to get a free view of the Rally. But if anyone kicks enough fuss up, they will be let passed....they don't want to much bad press.
-
Do you mean Ty Gwyn Road?
The only Ty Mawr Road I know is in Deganwy running from the old church house along to Maggie Murphy's.
-
Eerrrr ------ Eerrr ------ I was hoping to welcome 214 members of the Miniature golf Association to Llwynon Road on that day. All booked up and paid. ----- Should I go and visit a good Solicitor?
The result could be very interesting.
Anyone asked the Summit Complex, the Mine and any other businesses their opinion on all this?
-
Old Road will be closed from its junction with Church Walks to its junction with Ty Gwyn Road from 6am until 6pm.
Will this affect trade at the Kings Head?
-
The Summit Complex, tram and Copper Mines will already have closed for Winter!
-
Ah ! Thanks Jack-- I'd forgotten that.
As for the Kings Head-- there is a way via the back roads-- Tyn-y-Maes Hill and Llwynon Gardens.
-
Will the bus service to St Tudnos be stopped, Will the Cable Cars be stopped? Will the Trams be stopped?
Is the new Chief Executive of CCBC a decendent of Hitler? or maybe Gadaffi?
-
The bus service will run as usual. the cable cars don't operate in November and neither does the tram. As previously described, residents' will have passes and so will businesses, Ormegolf I wouldn't imagine you need to consult a solicitor if you contact the raklly organisers I'm sure they will be happy to make arrangements to enable you to honour your golf society booking.
Wales Rally GB is the British round of the World Rally Championship, and will receive TV coverage in 57 countries, it can be equated to bringing the Monaco Grand Prix to Llandudno, in Monaco residents the prestige and revenue although it inevitably means that roads in and out of the Principality are closed for the duration of the event and residents' movemenets are severely restricted.
Any restrictions imposed on movement on the Orme are purely for safety reasons, the event attracts around 200,000 spectators to Wales and with cars travelling at well in excess of 100 mph around the Marine Drive it is imperative that the track is kept clear of vehicles and pedestrians - imagine the potential for tragedy if a walker inadvertently strayed onto it.
The organisers are bound by the regulations set down by the FIA and must adghere to them at all times.
-
But they are not just closing Marine Drive and the areas close by. They are closing the whole damn Great Orme! What if I want to do a bit of bird watching or looking at the local flora and fauna, I am banned from doing so!
Sod Monaco they can do what they want to do, but why should we have this ban thrust on us. I have nothing against those who are interested and want to watch people driving at 100 mph plus round the Orme but I also want to enjoy my leisure time. (Actually I don't think speeds "well in excess" of 100mph on Marine Drive are possible).
"imagine the potential for tragedy if a walker inadvertently strayed onto it"
Surely this is down to their own stewarding of the event. Don't see how somemone at the Summit could "inadvertently stray" - do you?
So will the NWWN support the public? What do you think Craigydonian, you seem to have a good knowledge of the particular broadsheet?
-
imagine the potential for tragedy if a walker inadvertently strayed onto it.
What about the sheep and goats? Not just for their safety, but a driver would be through a wall in the time it takes to stop from that speed.-- And we all know what is at the other side of the walls in alot of places :o
-
But they are not just closing Marine Drive and the areas close by. They are closing the whole damn Great Orme! What if I want to do a bit of bird watching or looking at the local flora and fauna, I am banned from doing so!
Sod Monaco they can do what they want to do, but why should we have this ban thrust on us. I have nothing against those who are interested and want to watch people driving at 100 mph plus round the Orme but I also want to enjoy my leisure time. (Actually I don't think speeds "well in excess" of 100mph on Marine Drive are possible).
"imagine the potential for tragedy if a walker inadvertently strayed onto it"
Surely this is down to their own stewarding of the event. Don't see how somemone at the Summit could "inadvertently stray" - do you?
So will the NWWN support the public? What do you think Craigydonian, you seem to have a good knowledge of the particular broadsheet?
I think you will find that the vast majority of the public will support this event, which means acess to the Orme being closed for a few hours on a Thursday in November. The money it will inject into the local economy will be incalulable, the resort couldn't buy the worldwide publicity it will receive, and may hotels and guest houses, not just in Llandudno but for several miles around are fully booked for two nights out of season!
Surely contributors to this forum should look at the wider picture? I have just returned from a two hour walk on the Orme on a sunny Saturday afternoon in October and encountered a total of 22 other walkers, including two largish family groups. The Summit complex was busy, but I doubt it would be on a mid week afternoon in November. overall I think the advantages of having such a mssive event in the town will outweigh the disadvantages.
Incidentally I was born in Llandudno, in Gloddaeth Avenue to be precise, my father and uncle both had shops in the town, and my grandmother had a guest house, so no one has the interests of the town more at heart than I. My father and uncle were prominent in the now extinct Chamber of Trade, and also in the Llanduno Publicity Association, and I know that if they were alive today they would have welcomed this event with open arms as they alway put the interests of the town as a whole before their own.
They were instrumental in bringing the cable car to Llandudno, as when it was first mooted many people were against it, but their support helped it to gain planning permission, and I think the benefits it has brought as a tourist attraction have been immense.
I am sure that the people of Llandudno will be proud that such a prominent world class sporting event as Wales Rally GB is coming to the resort, and that many will regard a few hours of inconvenience as worthwhile.
-
We all have reasons for wanting to publicise the Town and your families distinguished past is no lesser or greater than my own family's relations who I have no reason to extol on this Forum. They also had businesses and some even lived on Gloddaeth Avenue! There would have been no Llandudno Hospital had it not been for the efforts of one of them.
Surely to close access for (say) 50 or 100 yards from the road would be sufficient to ensure a reasonable amount of safety, and still allow ordinary people to enjoy their own town's facilities? Can we go to see Grandfather's grave during the closure? It seems not!
I am not against the Rally, on the contrary I also enjoy motor sport, but I do object to Councils and the like, dictating what we shall and shall not do! To my mind they are playing with our Liberty, and Freedom of action and expression. Leisure should be a pleasure and something we should all be entitled to follow in our own way.
-
Craigydonian, I do not believe anyone doubts the wisdom in bringing the car rally to Llandudno.
It will be wonderful, I am sure.
Unless I am mistaken, what seems to be bothering most Forum members is the fact 30+ years ago everyone was free to walk without restriction onto to Great Orme and watch the Lombard RAC Rally free of charge.
I often did that and I do not remember there being one incident, but please correct me if I am wrong.
In 2011, this is not going to be the case.
Unless one lives on or close to the Great Orme, spectators are being asked to pay £20 plus booking/processing fees to watch the rally.
If you can provide the Forum with a reasonable explanation why this has had to change and upon whose instructions, I believe this will help a great deal.
-
Bri, thats it in a nutshell, it's fantastic that the rally is coming, its the draconian measures and excessive charges I object to. 30 years ago we had cars like Audi Quattros , back when it was a much more exiting rally and free on the Orme!
-
Why not cancel the rally and leave the orme open to the thousands of November tourists. I will admit i was surprised when i heard u would have to pay,so i will not bother, but im still glad Llandudno will make a few quid and massive publicity.
-
I have been involved in motorsport since 1969, including being an official of the local club almost all that time ... and the fact that we (North Wales Car Club) have helped bring back Britain's major car rally, the final round of the World Championship. to the town gives me and my fellow cliub members a great sense of acheivement and pride, a feat that will benefit the various businesses in town and the hotels during their "quiet" period.
This came about as a result of the highly successful Rallyfest of 2010 and the forward-thinking of the Conwy Borough and Llandudno Town Councils - two organisations often criticised for not supporting events in the towns.
True, some people will be inconvenienced. That is an unfortunate thing that happens when something major is on your doorstep, whether it be a car rally, a cycle race, running, sailing, major football tournament, Victorian extravaganza, evening Christmas shopping or simply too many tourists clogging up the town. You can never please all of the people all of the time.
I have volunteered to help with the forthcoming Wales Rally GB, only a small task but I will be stationed on the Orme armed with a radio. Having been to a training session I find it unbelievable just how much has gone on behind the scenes to ensure that everyone is kept safe (hundreds of marshals for just the three miles or competitive road), marshals all around the town to assist with traffic flow, and a huge task of visiting all the residences and giving them the chance to acquire passes so that they can, as closely as possible, carry on their daily lives.
True, the Orme will be "closed" for the duration. For very good reasons - to be able to run the event smoothly, efficiently and above all, safely. The Marine Drive has been closed for a few motorsport events this year - the Three Castles, the Cambrian, the Mini Britannia and now the Wales Rally GB. That has involved just five days in which you are not allowed (by law, please note) to walk, cycle or drive around the Orme during the "closed" times.
To say that perhaps a walker may get hit by a speeding car is a total red herring - there will be no walkers on the "stage" - they would be breaking the law by being there, there will be many marshals to guide them to safety. So anyone even thinking about trying that on would be well advised to take their daily constitution along the Promenade (watch out for cyclists) or perhaps the path from West Shore towards Conwy, where they will be able to roam unhindered.
For those who remember the RAC Rally using the Orme the last time was in 1981!!! It may have been free then, but unfortunately, these days the event organisers see fit to charge £20 for the privilege of seeing the world's top drivers in action. It is still a lot cheaper than the cost of attending a Championship Division football match or, I am sure, County Cricket when it is held in Colwyn Bay. Whether or not you find the Citroëns, Fords and so-called Minis as exciting as Vauxhall Chevettes, Opel Mantas, Ford Escort Mk2's, Toyota Celica, Renault 5 Turbo, Sunbeam-Lotus, Lancia Stratos and Alpine-Renaults only you can judge (I know which I prefer watching!).
If you are against paying £20 to attend the event then did you go and watch the recent Cambrian Rally? Twice as many cars, intense competition and for just a small parking charge!
To those of you who are "against" the event, then please bear with is - there are 360 days in the year when there is no motorsport in town, so plenty of time to enjoy the Orme (as I do myself, on foot or bicycle). To those of who who are "for" the event - thank you - enjoy!
-
I understand everything you say but you seem to have missed the point. Many of us are NOT against the Rally, in fact welcome it to the town.
But we would like to wander the parts of the Orme that are NOT required for the cars or the spectators.
My feeling is that the whole Orme has been closed purely so that anyone wanting to visit this Country Park has to cough up £20 for the privilidge.
Can I visit a grave? Can I walk on the limestone pavement? Can I photograph wild flowers and birds? No, because some one has decided to make an exemption order to prevent anyone visiting the area!
I take it that after the event a few walls will no doubt need repairing, including the one damaged at the last rally. I wonder how long it will take for that to be done.
-
I think according to an Arriva notice on the bus shelter that the Number 73 buses will not be running on the day of the Rally
-
This Rally is so important to the area that the County Council have devoted all the following space to publicising it on the CCBC Events Website.
10 November 2011
Llandudno will host the opening stage of the 2011 Wales Rally GB, the final round of the World Rally Championship. Why not come along and see stars such as Sebastian Loeb and Petter Solberg battle it out around the iconic Great Orme or visit the medieval opening ceremony on Conwy Quay?
Great Orme Stage: Adults - £20, Children - £1
Contact Details:
Ms Natalie Houghton
Marine Drive, Great Orme, Llandudno, LL30 2LR
Tel: 01492 575943
Email: natalie.houghton1@conwy.gov.uk
Web: www.walesrallygb.com (http://www.walesrallygb.com)
Open Hours: 12.00 noon to 8.00pm
Rates Admission
Adult £20.00
Child £1.00
Family Ticket -
Seniors Rate -
___________HOW PATHETIC
I'll put on short trousers! _))*
-
My feeling is that the whole Orme has been closed purely so that anyone wanting to visit this Country Park has to cough up £20 for the privilidge.
I agree with Yorkie. :o I welcome the Rally coming to Llandudno. No-one is disputing that the Marine Drive and all ways onto it from the Orme should be closed. But I see no reason whatsoever why all the paths up to, across and round the Summit need to be closed - no rally car is going within half a mile of there, so any talk of 'safety issues' is patent nonsense!
-
DVT, welcome to the Three Towns Forum.
Let’s please get one thing clear I have not seen one post that is against the event.
However, just because a spectator now has to pay £20 to watch the rally it does not guarantee they will still not walk on to Marine Drive.
The purchase of a viewing ticket does not appear to include any Terms & Conditions that absolve you of any responsibility so why do it?
As a long-standing member of NWCC, you will be aware there is no history of any accidents at a car rally going around the Great Orme so why now insist on closing it altogether and make a charge?
Will your club receive the financial benefit of this initiative while CCBC pick up all the set-up costs?
I would not be surprised if the set-up costs in the end will far outweigh the projected income.
Surely, it would have been far easier (and a more popular move after 30 years) for your sport to let everyone go onto the Great Orme on Thursday, 10 November and be free to do whatever they want to do.
That has always been the case.
Has the Great Orme ever been closed before?
BTW, I still feel aggrieved about being misled into paying a £5 car parking charge on the Great Orme for the Cambrian Rally when my intention was to pay £1.10 in the Summit Car Park. FYI, I was informed yesterday blocking the Bishop’s Quarry Road with cones has not gone down well with CCBC either.
-
I wonder if they have considered that the road to the Summit and the Cemetery road down to Marine Drive are both public highways and have applied for the necessary road closure orders.
Also Marine Drive is marked as having a maximum permissable speed of 30 mph. I wonder has a suitable order has been made to cover that?
Also it is known that the road surface on Marine drive is of a light construction and was designed to only take light traffic - one reason why commercial vehicles and large coaches are banned. There could be considerable damage done to the surface by hard driven speeding cars particularly on bends and corners. I can see us being handed a large repair bill for post Rally repairs.
Paul Evans of Highways can supply all the technical stuff! >?>??
-
All positive in my view, tho I'm sure like the forthcoming rally in Llandudno there will be the usual negativity from the nimbys.
Jack, I suggest you carry out some research into what is meant by a nimby.
Yorkie, the Orders for all the closure of relevant roads, bridleways and footpaths was on Page 40 of the North Wales Pioneer dated the 19 October 2011.
I cannot find it in the Llandudno edition of the NWWN dated Thursday, 20 October 2011 so it will probably be in next week.
For the record, this morning I have received a private message explaining the £5 car park rip-off was not the responsibility of NWCC but more likely to be the responsibility of a farmer with a field on the Great Orme.
I apologise for possibly accusing the NWCC but the individuals involved in the scam were wearing yellow tabards, using directional arrows and selling Cambrian Rally programmes to help authenticate what they were doing.
-
..wearing yellow tabards, using directional arrows and selling Cambrian Rally programmes to help authenticate what they were doing.
An out and out scam, then?
-
What would you call it, DaveR?
Anyway, for those of you who missed the 2 x Public Notices and just in case they miss the NWNN this Thursday:
http://edition.pagesuite-professional.co.uk/launch.aspx?referral=other&refresh=gB02L13a0oA7&PBID=4e24e06c-c981-405e-9ef0-f1c3aec8f4fc&skip= (http://edition.pagesuite-professional.co.uk/launch.aspx?referral=other&refresh=gB02L13a0oA7&PBID=4e24e06c-c981-405e-9ef0-f1c3aec8f4fc&skip=)
They are both on page 40.
Does anyone know if the cash receipts from all the ticket sales (£20) including processing fee (£5.25), booking fee (£1.70) and postage (£4.95) will be going to CCBC and not to Wales Rally GB 2011 as I fear?
http://www.ticketweb.co.uk/user/?region=gb_wales&query=detail&event=452534&referral_id=walesrally2011 (http://www.ticketweb.co.uk/user/?region=gb_wales&query=detail&event=452534&referral_id=walesrally2011)
Wait a minute......Is that correct?
£31.90 for a £20 ticket. :o
I hope there is going to be a Promotion Code for residents of Conwy county?
-
Going back around a dozen posts ----- charges Adult £20.00 Child £1.00. Seems very odd to say the least. Anyone thought of a possible misprint, say Adult £20 Child £10. More in line with common practice.
-
I've just read the post from Craigydonian a few days ago. It appears that he has taken my earlier post about 137 or so members of a golf society wanting to play on the day of the rally seriously. I am sure most of the forum will realise that these 137 golfers are a figment of my imagination.
The humourous post was meant to show that a devious person (me) and a devious Solicitor (fictional) could go after the dreaded C O M P E N S A T ION and to hell with the golfers!!!
-
ormegolf, are you sure Craigydonian is a male? ?{}?
FYI, children 9-15 are definitely £1 only.
Children 8 and under are free.
Those prices are very attractive but do not forget the two special stages going around the Great Orme are being held when children should really be in school.
-
Even if it is a misprint it'd too late now, if the leaflet says £1 won't they have to honour that? Then again like Bri says kids will be in school anyway.
-
In reply to Bri, no, I am not certain Craigydonian is a male. I have no idea of his/her/etc sex. I just typed the post and for some unknown subconscious reason my mind thought "Craigydonian" was a male type of title. Goodness only knows why. Mike
-
I see Mostyn Street is closed on the Thursday (24hrs) Wales Rally GB - Opening Ceremony.
http://www.snogonline.co.uk/events/wales-rally-gb-opening-ceremony-mostyn-street-and-opening-stages-great-orme (http://www.snogonline.co.uk/events/wales-rally-gb-opening-ceremony-mostyn-street-and-opening-stages-great-orme)
It's the norm for under 16 old's to go free at racing circuits.
-
It is important to note the £1 tickets are only available at that price when purchased in advance and all children must be accompanied at the event by an adult.
Any locals hoping to purchase kids’ tickets on the day of the rally to avoid paying the £11.90 advance postage/booking/processing fees will be in for quite a shock when they suddenly find the £1 ticket has increased to £20 per child.
-
TENS of thousands of motor rally fans will pour into the region next week when World Rally Championship Round Wales Rally GB starts in the county.
And for non-rally fans Llandudno and Conwy will host two spectacular events linked to the rally which are likely to be shown on TV worldwide.
The start of the event is in Llandudno’s Mostyn Street at 2.30pm next Thursday and there will be free entertainment including Victorian-themed traders and entertainers, an old time music hall show, juggling unicyclist, a restored Llandudno and Colwyn Bay tram car, a vintage lorry display, and a steam traction engine.
The first two competitive stages of the event will go around the Marine Drive, and spectators will be treated to tricks from the world-renowned 3SIXTY Bicycle Stunt Team and a thrilling display of driving skill from historic rally group Slowly Sideways, before the first cars begin to arrive on the stage from 2.38pm.
And the first day of Wales Rally GB will end with the official opening ceremony and free, family-friendly, medieval-themed entertainment at Conwy Quay and in Conwy town centre. Shops will remain open until 8pm, with the town centre playing host to traditional fairground rides, street entertainers, hot chestnut stands, a coconut shy, minstrels, knights and maidens.
Entertainment on the Quay will start at 4pm, and will include jesters, balloon modellers, stilt-walkers, circus workshops, magicians, birds of prey and an authentic hog roast.
Fireworks over Conwy Castle will herald the arrival of the first cars shortly before 6pm, with the day’s winners being welcomed by Cllr Brenda Taylor, chairman of Conwy Council and Cllr Ann Roberts, mayor of Conwy, as well as TV star Jason Done, star of BBC drama series Waterloo Road.
Conwy Council cabinet member Graham Rees said councillors and officers had worked closely with the rally organisers to organise the event.
He said: “We are extremely pleased Llandudno and Conwy will play a vital part in the 2011 World Rally Championship. The event will bring a host of economic benefits. We are expecting visitor numbers to be very high. The teams, their supporters and the spectators will stay in the area and spend money with local businesses. The county will be showcased around the world as the World Rally Championship is broadcast to over 80 viewing territories, with the Wales stage of the tour expected to attract 62 million viewers worldwide. The event also gives local residents the opportunity to see top class motorsport at close quarters.”
And Llandudno Hospitality Association chairman David Williams said: “These days people need a reason to come away for a few days, and I’m sure that a result of the rally many hotels and guest houses will be displaying no vacancy signs.”
http://www.northwalesweeklynews.co.uk/conwy-county-news/local-conwy-news/2011/11/03/spectacular-events-will-mark-the-start-in-llandudno-and-conwy-of-wales-rally-gb-55243-29708015/ (http://www.northwalesweeklynews.co.uk/conwy-county-news/local-conwy-news/2011/11/03/spectacular-events-will-mark-the-start-in-llandudno-and-conwy-of-wales-rally-gb-55243-29708015/)
-
Wales Rally GB : Great Orme http://bit.ly/sIpKds (http://bit.ly/sIpKds)
The Great Orme stage comprises 3.3 miles of tight twisting, demanding tarmac road that follows the contours of the headland mountain which is set in the Irish Sea. The Orme is a very famous stage and was historically used on the Lombard RAC Rally 30 years ago. It has many dangers, other than the normal contours, including the 3" high kerbs located on the seaward side, after which there is a small wall adjacent to a vertical drop to the sea.
Access to the Great Orme is very limited, due to the obvious dangers of the stage being located on the edge of a cliff face. No pedestrian access is allowed through the start or finish - the only access is by ticket only which will grant access to the road via the top of the Orme.
Providing a full day of entertainment, there will be catering, commentary, merchandise and a big screen available to spectators on the Great Orme. Entertainment in advance of the WRC stage will include:
A thrilling display of driving skill from historic rally group Slowly Sideways on the Rally route itself at approximately midday and 12:30
The 3SIXTY Bicycle Stunt Team will perform 4 x 30 minute displays between approximately 10:00 and 13:00 on top of the Great Orme. 3SIXTY displays have enthralled audiences around the world for over a decade and feature amazing riding skills. All riders have won national titles or completed official world record stunts ensuring that every show has an unbeatable level of skill on display.
From all directions: From the A55, leave at exit 19 (A546 signposted Llandudno / Deganway) and follow signs to the Great Orme spectator Park and Ride car park.
Once on the Orme, spectators will have access to two viewing sites:
Viewing Point 1
A fairly easy walk taking about 10-15 mins from the car park.
This location offers good long viewing with limited close viewing options and limited facilities for spectators with disabilities. Spectators will not be allowed to climb areas of the Orme due to dangers involved.
Viewing Point 2
Mainly a flat walk taking about 20 mins from the car park.
From this location spectators will have the opportunity to view the cars at close quarters and see some spectacular driving as crews reach the highest point of the stage, coming into view from round a fast left into a fast right. This sequence is very fast and the cars will then power away along a very quick stretch of road which has ample viewing points. Catering and other facilities (big screen, commentary and merchandise) will be available at this location.
Parking
There are two different parking options for spectators visiting the Great Orme Special Stage:
Spectators are strongly advised to make use of the Park and Ride service provided by the event organisers, car park B. The location of the Park and Ride car park is in Bodafon Fields (entrance is off Nant Y Gamar Road, LL30 3BB). Spectators should park in the car park (open from 08:00) and will then be required to pay a £2 PER PERSON charge for a return trip to the Great Orme on the coach. Coaches seat approximately 80 people and will leave at regular intervals between 09:00 and 12:15. The coach will take spectators directly to the viewing areas on the Great Orme Stage (there will be two drop off locations) before returning to the Park and Ride car park in a circular trip. The journey to the viewing areas is expected to take 25 minutes. The last bus will leave the Park and Ride car park at 12:15 before the stage shuts down for the competitive action to get underway from 14:38. After the Special Stage has finished, buses will depart from the same two pick up locations at regular intervals from approximately 16:30, returning spectators to the Park and Ride car park. The last bus will leave the pick-up locations at 19:00. Thereafter, spectators will be obliged to make their own way down from the Great Orme. Check walesrallygb.com for updates to this information.
Spectators will be able to park in a non-Rally organised car park on the Great Orme itself from 08:00. Spectators using this car park will be obliged to pay £5 PER CAR and will need to show their tickets before accessing the roads leading to this car park. Spectators not in possession of a valid ticket will be obliged to purchase a Great Orme Special Stage ticket (£20 per adult / £5 per child aged 9-15, children aged 8 or under go free).
Public car parks are available in Llandudno Town Centre for those wanting to watch the Ceremonial Start, which will take place from 14:30. All spectators for the Great Orme Stage should use the official Park and Ride car park or the private car park situated on the Great Orme.
General advice
As the weather at the time of the event can be wet and extremely cold and the Great Orme Stage will be very exposed with little shelter, please make sure you dress accordingly with a water and wind proof jacket and sturdy footwear. As some of you may be departing in the dark, please bring a torch with you.
Disabled
There will be limited disabled parking at both car parks but access to the Great Orme Stage is not recommended for less-abled spectators who may be in wheelchairs.
Hospitality options available.
-
With the Lombard Rally due any day now I wonder how many times the walls of Marine Drive will get hit and/or damaged during the day!
My guess is about 7 - what do you think? ££$
-
Dave R and I were discussing that very possibility whilst quaffing a pint in the newly opened Parade this evening.
I think seven is a pretty accurate guess Yorkie.
^*^0 ^*^0
-
With the Lombard Rally due any day now I wonder how many times the walls of Marine Drive will get hit and/or damaged during the day!
My guess is about 7 - what do you think? ££$
Not at all, there has not been a Lombard Rally for many years! :D As for Rally GB I would guess just once!
-
Whatever the name of the Rally is that is closing the Great Orme off to the locals this week, Lombard, Uk, British, Welsh - what's in a name? >>>
-
The old Lombard RAC Rally was a great event, going over large parts of the UK, sadly in recent years it has become a shadow of it's former self :(
30 yers ago I was on the Orme watching the rally and I do not remember paying to see it $angry$
-
This guy, Ken Block, will be competing in Llandudno on Thursday:
Ken Block Gymkhana Practice (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rs-jAImScms#)
-
some great driving there!
-
As a point of interest , according to the notices posted in the local papers, there are only 4 footpaths and one bridleway closed.
Access from the bottom to the top (and vice versa!) covers 4 foot paths that join directly on to Marine Drive, the bridleway runs the whole length of the Orme from the Ski slope. However, the footpaths from the town side, Invalid Walk etc, are not covered by the closures so there is unrestricted access to certain areas of the Orme. Where you can wander to once up there I'm not sure .
-
As a point of interest , according to the notices posted in the local papers, there are only 4 footpaths and one bridleway closed.
Access from the bottom to the top (and vice versa!) covers 4 foot paths that join directly on to Marine Drive, the bridleway runs the whole length of the Orme from the Ski slope. However, the footpaths from the town side, Invalid Walk etc, are not covered by the closures so there is unrestricted access to certain areas of the Orme. Where you can wander to once up there I'm not sure .
Interesting.... 8)
-
This guy, Ken Block, will be competing in Llandudno on Thursday:
Ken Block Gymkhana Practice (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rs-jAImScms#)
That took me back. I had two Subaru Imprezas in the past. The first one was the best car I ever had. Not a thing ever went wrong with it. I didn't drive it like Ken though, I promise!
-
Some more info, courtesy of Jason Weyman's blog:
Details of Thursday activities in Llandudno and Conwy for the Wales Rally GB
TIMETABLE - Thursday 10 November
77 cars have registered for this year’s rally. It will take approximately 1hour 30minutes for the cars to pass any one point. The first car through each point is scheduled at:
Start (Mostyn Street, Llandudno) 2.30pm
SS 1 Great Orme 1 2.38pm
SS 2 Great Orme 2 2.55pm
SS 3 Clocaenog 4.18pm
Opening Ceremony (Conwy Quay) 5.56pm
Service A (Mostyn Street, Llandudno) 6.25pm
Parc Ferme (Front of Venue Cymru, Llandudno) 6.55pm
OPENING CEREMONY
The International cars will be flagged off in Mostyn Street, Llandudno from approximately 2.30pm on Thursday 10 November. This will mean a road closure in place from 12am until 12pm.
Llandudno will also host the early evening remote service and overnight Parc Fermé on Thursday.
The official launch of the rally will take place on Conwy Quay from approximately 6pm – 7.30pm and CCBC will also be adding to this with medieval entertainment from 4pm until 8.30pm.
In order to facilitate the launch and related entertainment, the following road closures will be in place:
Conwy Quay (6am – 12am)
High Street (12pm – 12am) approximately as these timings are still in discussion
All public car parks in the Conwy area (Morfa Bach, Vicarage Gardens, Mount Pleasant and Bodlondeb) will be available.
Relevant signage will direct both traffic and pedestrians and all diversions will be fully publicised.
GREAT ORME
The Great Orme stage comprises 3.3 miles of tight twisting, demanding tarmac road that follows the contours of the headland mountain which is set in the Irish Sea. The Orme is a very famous stage and was historically used on the Lombard RAC Rally, the last time being 30 years ago. It has many dangers, other than the normal contours, including the 3" high kerbs located on the seaward side, after which there is a small wall adjacent to a vertical drop to the sea.
Access to the Great Orme is very limited, due to the obvious dangers of the stage being located on the edge of a cliff face. No pedestrian access is allowed through the start or finish - the only access is by ticket only which will grant access to the road via the top of the Orme.
Providing a full day of entertainment, there will be catering, commentary, merchandise and a big screen available to spectators on the Great Orme. Entertainment in advance of the WRC stage will include a thrilling display of driving skill from historic rally group Slowly Sideways.
Once on the Orme, spectators will have access to two viewing sites.
Viewing Point 1 - A fairly easy walk taking about 10-15 mins from the car park.
This location offers good long viewing with limited close viewing options and limited facilities for spectators with disabilities. Spectators will not be allowed to climb areas of the Orme due to dangers involved.
Viewing Point 2 - Mainly a flat walk taking about 20 mins from the car park.
From this location spectators will have the opportunity to view the cars at close quarters and see some spectacular driving as crews reach the highest point of the stage, coming into view from round a fast left into a fast right. This sequence is very fast and the cars will then power away along a very quick stretch of road which has ample viewing points. Catering and other facilities (big screen, commentary and merchandise) will be available at this location.
Disabled
There will be limited disabled parking at both car parks but access to the Great Orme Stage is not recommended for less-abled spectators who may be in wheelchairs. Viewing Point 1 is recommended.
TICKETS
Access to the Great Orme will be by ticket only - either the Great Orme Special Stage ticket (not transferable, no re-admission) or the World Rally Pass.
In advance of the event, spectators can purchase the Great Orme Special Stage ticket (£20 per adult / £1 per child aged 9-15, children aged 8 or under go free) and World Rally Pass (£99 per adult) either online, on the telephone hotline or via selected outlets - see http://www.walesrallygb.com/ (http://www.walesrallygb.com/) for details. Terms and conditions apply.
On the day, and strictly subject to availability, spectators will be able to purchase the Great Orme Special Stage ticket (£20 per adult / £5 per child aged 9-15, children aged 8 or under go free) and the World Rally Pass (£99 per adult) at Venue Cymru (open Thursday 08:00 - 21:00)
OR
strictly subject to availability, spectators can purchase the Great Orme Special Stage ticket (£20 per adult / £5 per child aged 9-15, children aged 8 or under go free) at the Park and Ride car park. Terms and conditions apply.
Programmes: Each adult ticket includes a copy of the official programme (value £9.00)
ROAD CLOSURES
The following roads will be closed at the times stated on Thursday 10th November:
1. Marine Drive: 12am – 8pm
2. St Tudno’s Road: 6am – 6pm
3. Old Road: 6am – 6pm
4. Ty Gwyn Road: 6am – 6pm
5. Mostyn Street: 12am – 12am (11th Nov)
6. Clonmel Street: 12am – 9pm
7. The Parade (front of Venue Cymru): 6pm (9th Nov) – 9am (11th Nov)
8. Happy Valley Road will have restricted access from the junction with North Parade. This will enable those wishing to use the ski slope to gain access along with coaches collecting or dropping off from the Grand Hotel. The hotel will be fully consulted with and access allowed for their residents at all times. A full closure will be in place immediately after the Grand Hotel.
Access for residents and hotels will be kept via Ty Gwyn Road along with those living on Llys Helig Drive also receiving resident passes.
All road closures will be fully advertised and residents/businesses informed of any diversions in place.
PARKING
Two areas will be available for spectator car parking:
1. Spectators are strongly advised to make use of the Park and Ride service provided by the event organisers. The location of the Park and Ride car park is in Bodafon Fields (entrance is off Nant Y Gamar Road, LL30 3BB). Spectators should park in the car park (open from 08:00) and will then be required to pay a £2 PER PERSON charge for a return trip to the Great Orme on the coach. Coaches seat approximately 80 people and will leave at regular intervals between 09:00 and 12:15. The coach will take spectators directly to the viewing areas on the Great Orme Stage (there will be two drop off locations) before returning to the Park and Ride car park in a circular trip. The journey to the viewing areas is expected to take 25 minutes. The last bus will leave the Park and Ride car park at 12:15 before the stage shuts down for the competitive action to get underway from 14:38. After the Special Stage has finished, buses will depart from the same two pick up locations at regular intervals from approximately 16:30, returning spectators to the Park and Ride car park. The last bus will leave the pick-up locations at 19:00. Thereafter, spectators will be obliged to make their own way down from the Great Orme.
2. Spectators will be able to park in a non-Rally organised car park on the Great Orme itself from 08:00. Spectators using this car park will be obliged to pay £5 PER CAR and will need to show their tickets before accessing the roads leading to this car park. Spectators not in possession of a valid ticket will be obliged to purchase a Great Orme Special Stage ticket (£20 per adult / £5 per child aged 9-15, children aged 8 or under go free).
Only the Maelgwyn Road car park will be utilised for the rally. All the other public car parks within Llandudno itself will be available as normal, meaning that plenty of spaces will be available for all motorists who wish to visit the entertainment in the town or shop as normal.
Parking for officials by the St George’s Hotel will be by permit only on the promenade and there will be stewards at that location.
PARKING RESTRICTIONS
Restrictions will be in place throughout all closures at the times stated above. Some areas of Ty Gwyn Road will also have parking restrictions in place in order to allow the smooth flow of traffic to and from the car park.
DIVERSIONS
All public traffic coming into the town from the A470 will be diverted via Vaughan Street to Madoc Street (using black on yellow signage) from where motorists can access all of the public car parks.
Spectators for the rally will be diverted down Queens Road and sent to the entrance for parking at Bodafon Fields on Nant y Gamar Road.
Any spectators that choose to park in the private car park on the Orme will be diverted via Vaughan Street, turning left along the promenade and then up Church Walks to Ty Gwyn Road.
Parking restrictions will also be in place along various points on Ty Gwyn Road. All diversions will be fully signed with qualified stewards in place at the relevant junctions.
SIGNAGE
Numerous signs have been ordered from JT&M Signs and are being used to direct traffic off the A55 at Junction 19 (Llandudno Junction). Signage will also be in place to intercept any vehicles that access Llandudno through either Deganwy or Penrhyn Bay and will re-route them to the diversions specified previously.
Signage will also be in place well in advance of road closures so that motorists do not find themselves stranded in cul-de-sacs.
A separate signage schedule is being arranged in conjunction with the landowner for directional signage to the Great Orme car park.
PUBLIC TRANSPORT
Local bus companies and taxi firms have been made aware of the rally and alternative routes and taxi ranks will be in place on the day so that minimum disruption is caused to the public.
BETWS-Y-COED CAR WASH
At present it is planned to host a car wash on a piece of land opposite the Waterloo Hotel between 4pm and 6.30pm. In order to ensure this does not affect the traffic flow in the town cones will be placed from the old police houses to just past the car park area adjacent to the 3rd entrance for the Best Western Hotel.
-
I'm amazed by the number of cars going up the Orme from about 6:30 this morning. One question. Why do so many of the rally fans feel that they have to drive up the Orme at 50 + mph?
-
At that time of the morning, they were probably the marshalls.
-
There's a pathetic attempt at entertainment going on at the moment, 11.45 a.m. Some dreadful woman screeching music hall songs, out of tune, at least I think it's a woman and then an old bloke singing Mameeeeee. It's all so amature and sad that this town seems locked in to all things Victorian. Mind you the day it's dragged kicking and screaming in to the 21st century I'll fall over. I'm going home as it makes me grumpy!
-
So what sort of speeds will they be doing whilst driving round the Orme?
-
Hopefully that will be pedestrian free, the roads up the Orme aren't. I hope somebody has told the goats to keep off the course!
-
I've been nattering on about the poor goats/sheep and other wildlife since this lot was mooted. Hope everything has the wit to stay well away.
Mostyn Street was dead apart from the old tram and a steam engine when I went along there at about 10.30am. More marshalls with Safety on their backs than ordinary people. Think the lack of being able to cross the main shopping street except where allowed was putting people off !
-
I'm in Mostyn St now, crowds are starting to gather, there is a mini stage opposite cafe culture with some singers and mr Alexander performing.
-
Better than Ian and his Karaoke machine?
-
Just walked the dog down to the prom and round by the Ambassador-- plenty of men dashing about with cameras, alot of revving and noise ! Feel sorry for the poor blokes trying to keep stopping the traffic at Hooson's Corner when another car comes along, they seem to be having a heck of a job!
-
I have just got in after using the Park & Ride.
There are hundreds still up there waiting for the buses to return.
Fortunately, the weather has been excellent.
-
We walked up onto the Orme this afternoon (and by the way straight into the spectator areas without being asked to produce a ticket or residents pass) so the fears of people not being able to walk dogs or just ramble up there didn't come to fruition. I didn't know what to expect but really enjoyed the thrill of seeing and hearing the cars go at break neck speeds round the bends on Marine Drive. I'm currently (7:30 pm) hearing loud souped up car exhaust noises coming up from town whilst at the same time on the TV I'm seeing the official rally cars arriving in Conwy. Is there some sort of Subaru cruising event going on in town tonight?
-
video - Sorry too large for upload.
-
All the cars seem to be currently parked along Mostyn Street receiving maintenance and then moving down to the Coach Park for refuelling.
-
In car video off You tube.Cambrian Rally 2011 SS8 - Great Orme 2 In car Matt Jackson (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QHQKs5pqp04#)
-
In car video off You tube.Cambrian Rally 2011 SS8 - Great Orme 2 In car Matt Jackson (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QHQKs5pqp04#)
Considering there was definitely no spectators allowed on Marine Drive...there seems to be an awful lot of spectators visible in that video!
-
There were spectators all over the place. There were areas roped off and signed "Do not go beyond this point" but everybody including a lot of the safety marshalls sat on the road side of the ropes.
This one is from 2006 but really does feel like your in the car with them.
Matt Edwards Great Orme on the Cambrian Rally 2006 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ov0vXA4xCNU#)
-
Apologies for the very poor quality of these photos (where's DaveR when you need him?) but here are a couple of the front runners: Sebastien Loeb, then one of the Ford Abu Dhabi WRT.
-
1) Here comes Sebastien Ogier ...
2) Couldn't quite see his crash but here he is driving back in the opposite direction!
3) "Parked" at the bottom of the hairpins.
4) Slightly later ... "What went wrong?"
(The first photo here looks so similar to the first one in the previous post that I had to check that I hadn't used the same one twice by mistake but they are definitely different photos.)
-
I'm here, Blodyn! :D The scene along Mostyn Street tonight:
-
Couple more photos from tonight in Mostyn Street:
-
It looks pretty busy there, DaveR. Glad to see you're working hard!
TheMedz was right about spectators being everywhere - some of them looked rather precarious too!
-
After DaveR's brilliant night photos I'm rather embarrassed about posting these. But while DaveR seems to have been busy hanging around the area of cafes and bars, this was how the evening progressed on the Orme.
In the second photo you should be able to see the headlights coming around the headland.
In the final (very bad) photo you can get some idea of what the later drivers had to contend with and quite a few more came around after this.
-
The Orme looks very quiet specytator wise! Where were all the thousands everyone was expecting hiding? On my trip around town I got the impression there were more rally people than watchers! C'est la vie!
$walesflag$
-
The official Opening Ceremony on the Quay in Conwy at 6pm was also very well attended. There were lots of medieval entertainers strolling around and a torchlight parade along the High Street. Good event.
(http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6095/6333306898_0a344bcac6_z.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davellandudno/6333306898/)
Torchlight (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davellandudno/6333306898/#) by davidrobertsphotography (http://www.flickr.com/people/davellandudno/), on Flickr
-
A great video featuring Ken Block driving around Universal Studios Theme Park, some fantastic precision driving. Action starts at about 1.30 into the video:
DC SHOES: KEN BLOCK'S GYMKHANA FOUR; THE HOLLYWOOD MEGAMERCIAL (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=btViXvIDsi0#ws)
-
Wales Rally GB got underway in dramatic style today (Thursday) under a beautiful blue sky, with thousands of spectators lining the Great Orme stage waiting to watch cars compete on a special stage that last saw action back in 1981.
The Toll Road test, a tight tarmac section offering minimal room for mistakes with high kerbs and a spectacular drop over the clifftops to the Irish Sea, was to catch out Citroën's Sébastien Ogier who smashed a wheel and brake disc on the first run through, effectively ending his rally and thus any hope of keeping Ford's Mikko Hirvonen away from his fellow Citroën team mate Sébastien Loeb, who are now well and truly locked into a battle for rally and World Championship honours. Ogier will, however, rejoin the rally tomorrow under SupeRally rules.
Frustrated with the dropping light levels, MINI's Kris Meeke cursed the front runners for the obvious daylight advantage they had, and as fog poked its misty finger through the pine trees of the notorious Clocaenog stage, the third and final stage of Day One (and the first gravel stage of the rally) lamp pods were lighting up the way for the rest of the field as they made their way through the 15km stage and then back to Parc Fermé.
Of the 67 cars classified at the end of the first section, there are seven non-classified cars who are expected to restart in the morning under SupeRally regulations making a total of 74 starts in the morning and Day Two of the rally.
Leading positions after SS3:
Pos Driver Team/Car Time/Gap
1. Sebastien Loeb Citroen 14m38.0s Interview Available
2. Mikko Hirvonen Ford + 0.7s
3. Jari-Matti Latvala Ford + 3.1s
4. Petter Solberg Solberg Citroen + 11.9s
5. Kris Meeke Mini + 18.7s Interview Available
6. Dani Sordo Mini + 27.3s
7. Mads Ostberg Stobart Ford + 27.8s
8. Ott Tanak Stobart Ford + 30.6s
9. Matthew Wilson Stobart Ford + 36.5s Interview Available
10. Henning Solberg Stobart Ford + 37.8s
http://www.walesrallygb.com/news/2341.php (http://www.walesrallygb.com/news/2341.php)
-
Yorkie, it was much quieter at the hairpins than I'd expected but I can't speak for the rest of the Orme, though from what Bri Roberts and TheMedz have said it sounds as though it was busy at the main viewing areas. The buses from the park and ride looked full during the morning, but not as frequent as I would have imagined, but there did seem to be plenty of cars going up to the parking area. It will be interesting to see if the actual spectator numbers are published.
We had been advised to steward St. Tudno's Church during the rally, because of the expected hordes, but it was so quiet that we locked up the church and went to watch. I don't know whether the forecast for very heavy rain put off many people.
Bri and TheMedz, did you see the Slowly Sideways team "perform two demonstration runs on the rally route itself at approximately midday and 12.30"? It was 12.05 before I read that in the programme (some very kind marshalls gave me their spare copy as I hadn't been able to get hold of one) but we then looked out from the churchyard and hadn't seen any sign of them by 12.45.
DaveR, it's nice to hear that there was a good show and turnout in Conwy. How was the start in Llandudno?
I hope that there's been a generally positive attitude to the rally, that it didn't cause too much disruption and that it was beneficial to businesses in the town. I'm not a rally fan but I enjoyed this one and think that it's been quite exciting to have an event of such prestige here and if it returns (in less than 30 years, anyway) we'll have more idea of what to expect next time.
The programme says:
"The road around the Great Orme Head is widely regarded as one of the spectacularly classic venues in rallying - on a par with the tarmac roads in Corsica and the Whaanga Coast gravel roads in New Zealand, even if on a smaller scale."
I'm rather proud that we've got that on our doorstep!
-
Blodyn
no we didn't see the "Slowly sideways team" we only set off from home at about 1pm and took a more circuitous route, to get there, to enjoy the stunning weather.
The spectators seemed to extremely well behaved and patient waiting for the start of the Rally itself. Once the cars started there was ( Sébastien Ogier's little incident apart) something to watch every 2 or 3 minutes.
I was also surprised by how groups of spectators with loyalty to specific Car Teams were all geared up in their teams coats and hats and flags.
A really good afternoon.
-
The Rally didn't cause much disruption at all, either because it was very well organised, or poorly attended... or perhaps a little of both.
I was surprised how few people were in and around the Mostyn Street area at the start yesterday.
I noticed a reference earlier to a crash of somekind?
I do hope that there was no damage to Marine Drive in any way?
-
TheMedz, I'm glad you enjoyed the rally, it was a beautiful day, wasn't it.
Fester, I couldn't quite see Sebastien Ogier's crash but it was the Orme rather than the wall which he clipped - I think that the car came off worse! (No hole in the wall there, Yorkie.) He very quickly turned around and moved the car out of the way, as shown in the photos.
I've just had a look at the videos from Cambrian Rallies, linked from the previous page. I then started idly looking through other You Tube videos of drives around the Orme (I'm supposed to be tidying my desk, so am easily distracted). Watching one non-rally video I thought "that car passed the cyclist a bit close and rather fast" then I realised that was me on the bike! :o
-
Watching S4C at midnight they showed car number 2 skid, turn, crash in to the wall and limp (can a car limp?) to the zig zag up to
St Tudnos and park. If the wall hadn't held him he'd have gone over backwards down in to the sea. The shots were very good taken by helicopter and then later above Llys Helig Drive.
-
The more I read this thread, the more I am convinced that this 'sport' is a very dangerous, wasteful and unnecessary endeavour.
-
The more I read this thread, the more I am convinced that this 'sport' is a very dangerous, wasteful and unnecessary endeavour.
:laugh:
-
The more I read this thread, the more I am convinced that this 'sport' is a very dangerous, wasteful and unnecessary endeavour.
I am somewhat of the same opinion and consider that fast cars and their drivers are best let loose on special tracks as we have at Silverstone, Anglesey, Brands and other such places. My own Car Club have regular "Track Days" and "Airfield Days" when the lads and lassies can have a good thrash, under supervision and often with experienced trainers to give advice as to how they can get the best out of their cars.
-
How is driving a car around the Orme 'wasteful' and 'unecessary', yet around a track not? 8)
-
All motor ''sport'' is wasteful and unnecessary.
In the future, our more enlightened society will look back on many such things and say, ''we used to do what???'' :o
-
The more I read this thread, the more I am convinced that this 'sport' is a very dangerous, wasteful and unnecessary endeavour.
It's the only sport that I like!
-
Bri and TheMedz, did you see the Slowly Sideways team "perform two demonstration runs on the rally route itself at approximately midday and 12.30"? It was 12.05 before I read that in the programme (some very kind marshalls gave me their spare copy as I hadn't been able to get hold of one) but we then looked out from the churchyard and hadn't seen any sign of them by 12.45.
I heard it announced that 10 classic rally cars would be making their way from West Shore over to the start and then make a return journey.
To be frank, it was ages before 3 cars finally appeared.
It was further announced that that there was a problem with one car so the others would not be coming.
As for the 3 cars that passed they never returned as promised.
Blodyn, if you were stewarding near St Tudno’s Chuch, did you see any yellow ‘Park & Ride’ buses actually stop to let passengers alight at Spectator Viewing Point 1 before the rally commenced?
-
The more I read this thread, the more I am convinced that this 'sport' is a very dangerous, wasteful and unnecessary endeavour.
It's the only sport that I like!
Its not in the Olympics, and it doesn't feature on any UK Sports Channels, so I can only conclude that its not a sport.
Similarly, when local lads drive noisy cars around Mostyn Champneys or Marine Drive, at about half the speed these guys do, they get arrested.. But perhaps they are training for this 'sport'?
-
it doesn't feature on any UK Sports Channels, so I can only conclude that its not a sport.
http://www.livesportontv.com/motor-sports (http://www.livesportontv.com/motor-sports)
Saturday 12th November
SPORT FIXTURE TIME FIXTURE TOURNAMENT CHANNELS & BROADCAST TIMES
11:15
Race One
Porsche Supercup British Eurosport (11:15-12:00)
13:00
Qualifying, Abu Dhabi
F1 Grand Prix Setanta Ireland (12:55-14:10 Ireland Only)
Sunday 13th November
SPORT FIXTURE TIME FIXTURE TOURNAMENT CHANNELS & BROADCAST TIMES
07:30
Final Round
Le Mans Cup British Eurosport (07:30-09:00)
10:30
Race Two
Porsche Supercup British Eurosport (10:30-11:15)
11:50
Power Stage
Wales Rally S4C (11:50-13:00)
12:00
Power Stage
FIA World Rally Championship ESPN (12:00-13:00)
13:00
Race, Abu Dhabi
F1 Grand Prix Setanta Ireland (12:55-14:55 Ireland Only)
19:30
Kobalt Tools 500
Nascar 2011 Setanta Sports 1 (19:30-00:00 Ireland Only)
-
I watched Rallio on S4C last night and was disappointed with the coverage from Llandudno
-
Llechwedd, thanks for describing the S4C coverage of Sebastien Ogier's No. 2 car. The crash was evidently worse than could be seen by people in the area near me and I obviously got the wrong impression of what happened.
Bri, I did wonder whether the classic cars had travelled clockwise from West Shore and so did not pass us at all, so thanks for telling me what happened to them. Of the yellow park and ride buses which I saw, none stopped at the bottom of the hairpins to drop off anyone. However, one did pick up a chap with a little girl who seemed to have been trying to walk around Marine Drive. I must admit that until you mentioned it I hadn't realised that this was Spectator Viewing Point 1 but that does now make sense of the description in the programme. Having been at the church since 9.00 am watching people pass, I would say that the majority at the hairpins walked down from various directions.
-
Blodyn, if you look back at the posts and read DaveR’s post at 11.25am on 9 November you will see mention of 2 x Viewing Points but further down in this post there is a diagram showing 3 x Viewing Points.
My yellow Park & Ride bus from Bodafon Fields went straight past Viewing Point 1 so I can understand why there were not many spectators watching the rally on the zig-zag road below St Tudno’s Church judging by all the previous photos.
When the bus arrived at Viewing Point 2 neither the driver nor his female assistant said anything to passengers so no passengers rose from their seats.
In the circumstances, I shouted out this was Viewing Point 2 to which everyone naturally said is it not Viewing Point 1?
No, I repeated it is Viewing Point 2 so everyone on the bus alighted leaving me on my own.
I informed the driver I wanted to get off at Viewing Point 3 but he replied there are no more drop-offs and I had to get off the bus there.
He added this was Viewing Point 4 and he has been told this was the only drop-off point for spectators.
As you can imagine I was speechless.
Catching the bus back later was a real nightmare for everyone using the Park & Ride.
In fact, those councillors who were expected over in Conwy for the Official Launch of the Rally at 6pm must have been nearly an hour late getting to Conwy in their yellow bus.
I had the same driver coming back as I had going.
After travelling down Mostyn Avenue after 6pm, instead of dropping passengers off in Nant-y-Gamar Road to rush back round the Great Orme to collect other stranded spectators, the driver drove all the way to Penrhyn Bay and went around the roundabout to come back on the correct side of the road.
I guess there will certainly be a major investigation on the Park & Ride service.
I must add the volunteers helping from local rugby clubs on Bodafon Fields did an excellent job.
-
All motor ''sport'' is wasteful and unnecessary.
In the future, our more enlightened society will look back on many such things and say, ''we used to do what???'' :o
:o have you suddenly and without warning turned into one of these 'eco enviro warriors' ? L0L
-
Pleasing everyone was always going to be a bit of a balancing act....
-
S4/Clic Ralio+ http://bit.ly/qlldmq (http://bit.ly/qlldmq)
-
Pleasing everyone was always going to be a bit of a balancing act....
:laugh:
-
(http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6049/6335393292_30244445ea_z.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davellandudno/6335393292/)
Sebastien Ogier (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davellandudno/6335393292/#) by davidrobertsphotography (http://www.flickr.com/people/davellandudno/), on Flickr
"Sebastien Ogier driving the Citroen DS3 WRC in the Great Orme stage of the Wales Rally GB."
(http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6047/6334809243_c4f73a1fde_z.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davellandudno/6334809243/)
Petter Solberg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davellandudno/6334809243/#) by davidrobertsphotography (http://www.flickr.com/people/davellandudno/), on Flickr
"Petter Solberg driving the Citroen DS3 WRC takes the corner hard in the Great Orme stage of the Wales Rally GB."
-
(http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6234/6335603832_07b2fbebd7_z.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davellandudno/6335603832/)
When you gotta go... (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davellandudno/6335603832/#) by davidrobertsphotography (http://www.flickr.com/people/davellandudno/), on Flickr
"Wales Rally GB Leader, Sebastien Loeb, takes the opportunity to take a whizz while the tyre pressures are adjusted before the start of the Great Orme stage of the Wales Rally GB. Sebastien Loeb is driving the Citroen Total WRT DS3. It is expected that Loeb will win the World Rally Championship following Mikko Hirvonen's departure from the competition due to a damaged radiator "
-
$cool$
I was looking forward to your pics from yesterday, I see you have a watermark on the 3d pic (take a whizz) ;D
-
(http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6043/6335684808_9452e6d1e3_z.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davellandudno/6335684808/)
The Iceman Goeth... (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davellandudno/6335684808/#) by davidrobertsphotography (http://www.flickr.com/people/davellandudno/), on Flickr
"Kimi Räikkönen driving the Citroen DS3 on the Great Orme Stage of the Wales Rally GB"
-
$cool$
I was looking forward to your pics from yesterday, I see you have a watermark on the 3d pic (take a whizz) ;D
Thanks, M.E. I didn't get that killer pic I was looking for but a couple of decent ones. Yes, one can never be too careful with copyright infringers!
-
(http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6240/6335726504_9034a126c2_z.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davellandudno/6335726504/)
Jari-Matti Latvala (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davellandudno/6335726504/#) by davidrobertsphotography (http://www.flickr.com/people/davellandudno/), on Flickr
Jari-Matti Latvala & Mikka Anttila in the Ford Fiesta RS WRC at the start of the Great Orme Stage of Wales Rally GB. Some not too clever spectators can be seen clambering down the cliff in the background to get a better look!
-
(http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6095/6335762180_0b45456ce5_z.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davellandudno/6335762180/)
Hoonigan! (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davellandudno/6335762180/#) by davidrobertsphotography (http://www.flickr.com/people/davellandudno/), on Flickr
Representing the Monster World Racing Team, the legend that is Ken Block & Alex Gelsomino drive their Ford Fiesta RS to the start of the Great Orme stage of the Wales Rally GB.
-
After DaveR's great pics, here are some of mine from Thursday (taken on a very cheap camera :laugh: )
(http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i331/penrhynpigeons/PB100028.jpg)
(http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i331/penrhynpigeons/PB100019.jpg)
(http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i331/penrhynpigeons/PB100025.jpg)
(http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i331/penrhynpigeons/PB100032.jpg)
-
Love the photos gentlemen. Dave my grandson who is eight idolises Ken Block and was able to meet him. Ken presented him with a signed team cap - he's a great guy, very genuine and relaxed. Lying 12th at the moment.
Yorkie, you can't compare a track day with an international motor rally, they're like chalk and cheese. I've taken part in track days at Brands Hatch and Ty Croes and most people were just there for a pose and a gentle run around.
-
Can't remember if I've posted this photo of the Torchlight Parade in Conwy, part of the official Opening Ceremony in the evening.
(http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6095/6333306898_0a344bcac6_z.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davellandudno/6333306898/)
Conwy By Torchlight (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davellandudno/6333306898/#) by davidrobertsphotography (http://www.flickr.com/people/davellandudno/), on Flickr
-
http://www.express.co.uk/posts/view/283070/Rally-of-Great-Britain-I-need-to-become-a-first-class-passenger (http://www.express.co.uk/posts/view/283070/Rally-of-Great-Britain-I-need-to-become-a-first-class-passenger)
This was in yesterday's Daily Express.
I am fuming! :rage: having a very good idea where he was staying, what does he expect !? :rage:
-
Well it was depressing walking down the prom in October seeing so many hotels dressed for Xmas and celebrating turkey and tinsel week ends. I know it seems to be the only way they can make any money but October.
Thanks for the wonderful pictures thank goodness we had nice weather.
-
30 years ago :o Llandudno from 6.00 D)
Lombard RAC Rally '81.... (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zZa3dNLnSRk#)
-
http://www.express.co.uk/posts/view/283070/Rally-of-Great-Britain-I-need-to-become-a-first-class-passenger (http://www.express.co.uk/posts/view/283070/Rally-of-Great-Britain-I-need-to-become-a-first-class-passenger)
This was in yesterday's Daily Express.
I am fuming! :rage: having a very good idea where he was staying, what does he expect !? :rage:
It sounds to me like a bloke having a cynical rant (and living in the past) ... because he isn't doing very well?
-
World Rally Championship - Video - Onboards - GB 2011: Ogier off on stage 1 http://bit.ly/vnGwic (http://bit.ly/vnGwic)
-
Great photos of the cars, DaveR and ME - I'd better stick to photographing flowers!
Bri, you're right about the confusion over spectator areas. I too got a copy (after some effort) of the map which DaveR posted but I was told that it had not been finalised, so I didn't post it myself in case it was misleading. All the literature, including the official programme, mentioned only two viewing areas but without the map it was difficult to tell where they would be.
Dwsi, that's a very interesting clip showing Sebastien Ogier's crash, so I was right when I said that he clipped the Orme first. It looks as if he was lucky not to have done more damage. After they'd got out of the car, Sebastien Ogier and Julien Ingrassia seemed to be keeping a fair distance away from each other!
-
[youtube]2011 Wales Rally GB Great Orme Sebastien Ogier Crash (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fgYjS5MVU98#ws)[/youtube]
-
THE WELSH Government yesterday announced a £1.4m windfall to help fund the 2012 Wales Rally GB.
It comes after this year’s event attracted thousands of spectators to Llandudno and Conwy with massive spin-offs for local traders. It also created potential revenue from future visitors from TV exposure for the region.
As this year’s Wales Rally GB – the final and deciding round of the 2011 FIA World Rally Championship – draws to a close, Business Minister Edwina Hart has announced a funding package of £1.4 million for the 2012 event.
This grant funding package will be made up of a guaranteed cash sum of up to £1.2 million and additional performance related payments of up to £200,000 linked to ticket sales and the generation of other commercial revenue, including private sector sponsorship.
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/sport-news/wales_rally_gb/2011/11/12/wales-rally-gb-gets-a-1-4m-kickstart-55578-29762525/ (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/sport-news/wales_rally_gb/2011/11/12/wales-rally-gb-gets-a-1-4m-kickstart-55578-29762525/)
-
Why?
-
Bri, you're right about the confusion over spectator areas. I too got a copy (after some effort) of the map which DaveR posted but I was told that it had not been finalised, so I didn't post it myself in case it was misleading. All the literature, including the official programme, mentioned only two viewing areas but without the map it was difficult to tell where they would be.
Blodyn, confusion is an understatement.
How were visitors supposed to make a decision over which Viewing Point suited them better when nobody knew which car park is being referred to in the information down below?
Was it the Summit Car Park?
If so, the Park & Ride buses did not go to the Summit Car Park in the end but instead breached CCBC’s own Order and drove along Marine Drive.
By doing so, it would have made sense for the Park & Ride bus drivers to have been instructed to stop at both Viewing Points.
I hope when Craigydonian reads this post she/he will accept it as constructive criticism so it can be rectified for 2012.
Once on the Orme, spectators will have access to two viewing sites.
Viewing Point 1 - A fairly easy walk taking about 10-15 mins from the car park.
This location offers good long viewing with limited close viewing options and limited facilities for spectators with disabilities. Spectators will not be allowed to climb areas of the Orme due to dangers involved.
Viewing Point 2 - Mainly a flat walk taking about 20 mins from the car park.
From this location spectators will have the opportunity to view the cars at close quarters and see some spectacular driving as crews reach the highest point of the stage, coming into view from round a fast left into a fast right. This sequence is very fast and the cars will then power away along a very quick stretch of road which has ample viewing points. Catering and other facilities (big screen, commentary and merchandise) will be available at this location.
-
Why?
"..this year’s event attracted thousands of spectators to Llandudno and Conwy with massive spin-offs for local traders. It also created potential revenue from future visitors from TV exposure for the region."
-
I say again, why?
It has sufficient funding to achieve what it did, why should a very large sum of public money be pumped in to it?
Is it necessary? Is it in danger of not happening without this funding or something? (wishful thinking on my part)
-
I say again, why?
It has sufficient funding to achieve what it did, why should a very large sum of public money be pumped in to it?
Is it necessary? Is it in danger of not happening without this funding or something? (wishful thinking on my part)
It was only in Wales this year because of Welsh Government sponsorship. The organisers know it pulls in a lot of cash wherever it goes, so are no doubt happy to play the regions off against each other.
-
http://www.express.co.uk/posts/view/283070/Rally-of-Great-Britain-I-need-to-become-a-first-class-passenger (http://www.express.co.uk/posts/view/283070/Rally-of-Great-Britain-I-need-to-become-a-first-class-passenger)
This was in yesterday's Daily Express.
I am fuming! :rage: having a very good idea where he was staying, what does he expect !? :rage:
It sounds to me like a bloke having a cynical rant (and living in the past) ... because he isn't doing very well?
Exactly--- and it's not sour grapes on my part--I just think that it puts the tourism side of the town in a bad light.
-
Fester, Nemesis is aware I do not always agree with him but on this occasion I certainly do.
Competitors need to realise they have a responsibility towards their sponsors.
I sincerely hope Mr David Williams of the Llandudno Hospitality Association and Mr Iwan Davies, the new Chief Executive of Conwy County Borough Council will be making formal complaints to Wales Rally GB next week?
-
Matter in hand. Watch this space. :rage: :rage: :rage:
-
Fester, Nemesis is aware I do not always agree with him but on this occasion I certainly do.
Competitors need to realise they have a responsibility towards their sponsors.
I sincerely hope Mr David Williams of the Llandudno Hospitality Association and Mr Iwan Davies, the new Chief Executive of Conwy County Borough Council will be making formal complaints to Wales Rally GB next week?
Bri, Nemesis is not a bloke... she's a bird! A loveable and feisty one at that!
-
Thanks for putting me right, Fester. $booboo$
My apologies, Madam Nemesis. ))*
-
Much has been stated over the past few days about the Wales Rally GB being shown in around 80 countries across the World which it is hoped will help boost tourism for Llandudno and the county of Conwy.
Well, here is the TV schedule.
http://www.walesrallygb.com/spectators/index.php (http://www.walesrallygb.com/spectators/index.php)
TV coverage of the 2011 Wales Rally GB will include the following:
ESPN
Fri 11 November
23:00 - FIA WORLD RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP Great Britain, Day 1
Sat 12 November
06:00 - FIA WORLD RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP Great Britain, Day 1
15:00 - FIA WORLD RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP Great Britain, Day 1
22:00 - FIA WORLD RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP Great Britain, Day 2
Sun 13 November
12:00 - FIA WORLD RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP (LIVE) Great Britain, Power Stage
22:00 - FIA WORLD RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP Great Britain, Final Day
Mon 14 November
09:00 - FIA WORLD RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP Great Britain, Power Stage
In addition, the ESPN team will be at the rally doing some social media features (facebook.com/espntvuk) of behind the scenes. Fans can post questions and ESPN will try and get the answers.
RALIO
Ralllying fans can enjoy free-to-air coverage of the final stage of the World Rally Championship 2011 on S4C when the 2011 champion will be crowned.
Ralio+ will have coverage of the Wales Rally GB from 10-13 November and one of the high points will be the live free-to-air coverage of the final Powerstage at the Royal Welsh Showground, Llanelwedd on Sunday, 13 November.
Presenters Emyr Penlan and Lowri Morgan and the Ralïo+ team from P.OP.-1 production company will present the last rally of the Championship, the Wales Rally GB, as it weaves its way through North and Mid Wales.
Throughout the rally, we will get the opinions of former British champions Howard Davies and Gwyndaf Evans. Wyn Gruffudd will keep an eye on all the developments and we will have exclusive footage from the Ralio+ helicopter, along with the expert analysis of former UK champion Phil Pugh.
There will be a special edition of Ralio+ the following Thursday 17 November providing highlights of the Wales Rally GB and the 2011 season.
Ralïo+ English subtitles Website: s4c.co.uk/ralio
Ralio+ transmission times:
Thursday 10 November - 21:30 (repeated 23:40)
Friday 11 November - 21:50 (repeated 23:55)
Saturday 12 November - 17:55 (repeated 00:30)
Sunday 13 November - 11:50 Power Stage Live (repeated at 23:35)
Friday 18 November - 12:30 (review show)
S4C can be viewed in Wales on:
Freeview - 4
Virgin TV - 167
Freesat - 104
Sky - 104
Sky (without subscribing) - 134
S4C can be viewed outside Wales on
Freesat - 120
Sky - 134
BBC Two Wales
BBC Two Wales will have extensive highlights from the 2011 Wales Rally GB in an hour long special programme at 11.20pm on Monday 14 November.
Coverage is presented by writer and commentator Mark James, who covered the WRC between 1995 and 2002 on both TV and radio - marking his 100th World Rally broadcast.
BBC Two Wales is available on digital satellite (Sky) EPG no 991 outside Wales.
-
Ken Block with one of the biggest jumps at Wales Rally GB:
Ken Block Big Jump 2011 WRC Wales Rally GB Power Stage (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fqDl71Ugacs#ws)
-
Sebastien Loeb crashes into a spectators car coming the other way. Those of us watching in Llandudno will have seen tourists risking a similar situation, as they ignored 'road closed' signs to try and drive around Marine Drive. Several vehicles were turned back by the Pier side gate as rally cars came speeding up behind them.
ttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zs1dYjE24K0
-
Coverage of the Llandudno launch, courtesy of Glyn Hughes at Bottlemedia:
Llandudno start of the 2011 World Rally Championship GB (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_HLuBVi56Ko#ws)
-
Thanks for putting me right, Fester. $booboo$
My apologies, Madam Nemesis. ))*
No probs.-- After all Nemesis is the goddess of revenge!! ;D
Thanks Fester--I'm still chuckling over your comment :-*
-
The more I read this thread, the more I am convinced that this 'sport' is a very dangerous, wasteful and unnecessary endeavour.
It's the only sport that I like!
Its not in the Olympics, and it doesn't feature on any UK Sports Channels, so I can only conclude that its not a sport.
Similarly, when local lads drive noisy cars around Mostyn Champneys or Marine Drive, at about half the speed these guys do, they get arrested.. But perhaps they are training for this 'sport'?
Mr Fester ...
... I wonder which sport you do support, so that I can come on here and criticise it!!!
Anyway ...
"Motor Sport is dangerous" ... yet it is not even in the top 10 dangerous sports or pastimes in the UK! Top of the list is angling - consider how many fishermen have drowned in this area alone - they didn't all die of boredom! Horse-riding activities also feature high on the list and even sports such as Rugby are higher than motor sport in terms of deaths or serious injuries. We (motor sport organisers) do everything we can to ensure the safety of everyone involved and yes, sometimes things do go wrong, as in any sport.
"Motor Sport is wasteful" ... presumably you're referring to the use of the dwindling supplies of fuel. Consider this ... ONE weekend's premier football matches use more fuel than all motor sport in the UK. I know that footballers are not powered by petrol (only by money) but consider how all the fans got the ground, how the footballers got to the away match. Cycling even uses a lot of fuel each week - very few cyclists will cycle their way to the areas they go mountain-biking in - they use cars - and with the cycles mounted on top that is a way to waste fuel.
"Motor Sport is unnecessary" ... I don't know if you are a car owner, but if you are you can drive around in relative safety due to the developments of the motor vehicle over the years. Developments that have come about through a lot of motor sport - safety belts, laminated screens, air bags, strenghtened body shells, better tyres, etc. Or perhaps you are still driving a Model T Ford and fail to realise the benefits!
"Motor Sport is not in the Olympics" ... no, but couldn't it be? It is something where a winner can be determined by a precise method (timing) and not by the opinion of a few judges (such as diving, gymnastics, ice skating). What constitutes a "sport"? To my mind, an activity than can be precisely measured - so that rules out quite a few Olympic "sports". I've yet to see Darts and Snooker in the Olympics but they are considered to be sport, and the winner can be measured without resport to a judge's opinion.
As for young lads driving around Mostyn Chapneys then there will get arrested for driving in an inappropriate manner, quite correctly. There are motor sport activities which they could quite legally have a go at, under supervision and instruction - they need to be encouraged to join their local club and take part in activities.
To answer some of the other points ... I was the guy in the radio car at Spectator Point 2 (the tank tracks) and was surprised how many spectators thought it was spectator point 1. I was not aware of the buses failing to stop beforehand. However, the viewing from the zig-zags would have been, in my opinion, very restricted. I am amazed at the places some of the spectators got to and glad that no-one came to harm by falling off!
The delay in getting people away at the end was due to (a) a Spanish crew parking their car on it's roof on the first bend of the stage, necessitating a 30-minute hold up while the stage was made safe again and (b) the number of people - I was staggered how many queued up.
I have to say that there were no problems with spectators at my location and thanks to all who did attend.
The Slowly Sideways (lack of) display was a farce - I'll make no further comment.
All I can say is that a lot was learnt on this first visit to the town for 30 years and I'm sure will all be addressed for next year. I am not on the organising committee of the event but know a few people who are, and comments have been shared.
-
Mr Fester ...
... I wonder which sport you do support, so that I can come on here and criticise it!!!
Mr. Fester is an excellent darts player. He keeps asking me if I'd like to play but I'm unfortunately about 5 stone too light. ??? 8)
-
Ha! Mr Deep Vein Thrombosis...
How nice to hear from you.
Is Rally Driving crap? Well, it seems that opinion is equally divided on the subject... I think it is, and everyone else thinks it isn't.
So thats fair enough. :laugh:
What sport did I play? I played football, over 3000 games, to a terrible standard for several mediocre teams.
I don't recall ever touching the ball in at least 2900 of those games to be honest.
My career, such as it was, was entirely ''unnecessary'' and certainly ''dangerous'', hence the state of my knees these days, which is what hastened my retirement.
So I turned to darts as Dave R says.
There is a thread on this Forum about Darts, you are welcome to join in, criticise.. even to the point of sticking the boot in.
I'm a big boy I can take it... in fact its what this forum has been missing recently.
It still won't change my opinion that Rally driving is ridiculous, and I have a bone to pick with the organisers actually....
-
Mr Fester ...
... I wonder which sport you do support, so that I can come on here and criticise it!!!
Mr. Fester is an excellent darts player. He keeps asking me if I'd like to play but I'm unfortunately about 5 stone too light. ??? 8)
L0L L0L
-
Welcome DVT. Me and erindoors loved seeing the rally here, it was great to see it 'home' again after all these years, what a great sport it is too, to drive at those speeds through the forests takes remakable skill and courage. But why does it no longer have the proper tv coverage that it deserves like it had years ago? (BBC2 Wales Mon night 11.20pm) I must confess an interest here as many years ago I was a member of the Historic Rally Car Register with a blue 64 Triumph Spitfire and was a regular at the old Lombard RAC Rallys, happy days ^*^0
As I said earlier it's the only sport I like D)
-
Ahhh... but, do you like it enough to pay £20 to watch it, Merddin?
-
Ahhh... but, do you like it enough to pay £20 to watch it, Merddin?
I'm far too tight for that these days (I did years ago though!) but don't forget, 2 of us, plus parking, plus booking fee and it would have been near £50 :o :o
-
You can afford it mate, D) ... but more importantly isn't that something that DVT as an organiser should be addressing?
i.e, an avid Rally fan thinks that the prices are so high that they won't pay to see it, even when it comes to their hown town?
Thats got to be an issue.
-
You can afford it mate, D) ... but more importantly isn't that something that DVT as an organiser should be addressing?
i.e, an avid Rally fan thinks that the prices are so high that they won't pay to see it, even when it comes to their hown town?
Thats got to be an issue.
It seems that the £20 was a deterrant to keep people of the Orme, in our case and I expect many others it worked! $angry$ We enjoyed seeing the cars coming past the Grand hotel (dodging ordinary cars that somehow got on to the 'closed' road!) warming up tyres, brakes etc before the first stage.
-
I think you'll find that there is a lot of motorsport available locally at a far lower cost to watch. The recent Cambrian was free - true you had to pay to park and there was a cost for the programme. The problem is that 90% of the people spectating on the Orme probably never go to any other motor sport events - there are clubs all over the country organising affordable motorsport.
The £20 charge to spectate on the Orme is something that I, nor any of the local clubs, have any control over. The event is run as a big business, in the same way as the FA Cup, Wimbledon, the major darts and snooker tournaments, and suchlike. The world class events are a business, the local events (whether it be a club rally, pub darts or snooker league) are there for ther enjoyment and benefit of the club members. How does £20 for a couple of hours motorsport entertainment compare to the cost of going to Old Trafford for 90 minutes?
Personally I find darts (and golf) extremely boring ... but I acknowledge that many people play these activities and enjoy them. Similarly, there are many people who enjoy motorsport, whether as a competitor, organiser, marshal or spectator.
As for TV coverage (lack of) then that is something we motorsport people keep asking. The TV companies are prepared to spend thousands (millions?) to cover a football match, but TV coverage of motorsport is often left to smaller film companies and the sport has to pay, not the other way round. I'm sure that is true of some other sports as well. Things like the interweb, facebook and youtube probably don't help as people want immediate information - what they do with it is a puzzle!
I had nothing to do with the organisation of the WRGB other than I worked on it as a volunteer Safety Radio Operator on the Orme. My organising activities centre around the local club, the local events and those of the regional associations.
Incidentally, DVT are my real initials (Deep Vein Thrombosis wasn't heard of back in 1949!)
Enjoy your darts - I'll make sure I don't get in the way of your arrows!!!
-
Hey DVT, .. the safest place to stand if you want to avoid being hit by my darts is right in front of the board!
...and as for my wayward golf shots.... :golf: :golf:
-
Some nice photos of Llandudno on this link.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/motoring/picturegalleries/8883959/Wales-Rally-GB-2011-the-World-Rally-Championship-showdown.html (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/motoring/picturegalleries/8883959/Wales-Rally-GB-2011-the-World-Rally-Championship-showdown.html)
-
Ken Block has also posted some photos of the Great Orme on his Facebook page. Given that he has over 2 million followers on FB, that has to be good news:
"Check out these incredible shots from a very unique stage of Rally GB, called Great Orme (SS1 and SS2). Yes, these were taken in Wales."
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150374460640765.356412.139454585764&type=1 (https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150374460640765.356412.139454585764&type=1)
-
DVT, thanks for passing on to the organisers the comments made on the Forum. There were bound to be some "teething troubles" when the event had not been held here for 30 years. The stewards and marshalls whom I met were all very pleasant and helpful, so please would you also pass on thanks to them.
As I've said, I'm not a rally fan and attended as it was on the doorstep but I certainly enjoyed the rally and would watch it again. I don't know how the view from the hairpins compared with the other viewing areas but I don't think anyone at the hairpins minded that we didn't have more company, as it was easy to move around and get longer views from higher up or closer views from lower down.
Before the rally Nemesis was concerned about the goats straying on to the road. It's interesting that in all the photos and videos there were spectators teetering where we'd normally expect to see goats but there wasn't a single goat in sight. I spotted one group of nannies and billies above Pen-trwyn but as it's the rutting season they may have have had other things on their minds ...
-
...from a very unique stage
:-}}}
-
I agree with.......FESTER $good$
My fellow darter (but that's not why &shake& despite Fester and me being the only ones scalping the premier league big boys again Tuesday!)
I thought his comment about the chavs on Mostyn Champneys in their souped up death machneswas excellent and the point of which was inexplicably missed on here!
Of course young people are going to copy what their heroes do! And if their heroes are being lauded (to the tune of £20 a spectator and as someone said "tv coverage on 80 channels????) to race around the Orme in their ghastly painted monster machines. Then why wouldn't they copy them and think this is a good thing to do?
Richard Brunstrom once described dangerous driving as as bad as sticking a knife in someone, and he wasn't far wrong.
As anyone who has lost friends or relatives in road accidents caused by dangerous driving will no doubt testify.
Completely irresponsible sport, waste of time, waste of fuel, waste of money, and as the death of Dan Whealdon recently (and countless others in the past) proved.... Motorsport is a waste of lives.
Well said Fester .
-
So the current car you drive...........all its safety features were developed and tested by who and on what type of car?
Would you like to drive a 1960s car with 4 drum brakes at 30mph or a new car with 4 disc brakes and ABS at 30mph and its crumple zones/airbags etc?
Motorsport has helped roadsafety develop...............the only thing we cannot improve is the nut holding the streering wheel...... that is usually beyond help!!
-
So the current car you drive...........all its safety features were developed and tested by who and on what type of car?
Would you like to drive a 1960s car with 4 drum brakes at 30mph or a new car with 4 disc brakes and ABS at 30mph and its crumple zones/airbags etc?
Motorsport has helped roadsafety develop...............the only thing we cannot improve is the nut holding the streering wheel...... that is usually beyond help!!
That's like saying guns have helped body armour develop $good$
-
I agree with.......FESTER $good$
Richard Brunstrom once described dangerous driving as as bad as sticking a knife in someone, and he wasn't far wrong.
As anyone who has lost friends or relatives in road accidents caused by dangerous driving will no doubt testify.
Completely irresponsible sport, waste of time, waste of fuel, waste of money, and as the death of Dan Whealdon recently (and countless others in the past) proved.... Motorsport is a waste of lives.
.
Richard Brunstrom , one of the most misguided people in recent times, thank goodness he's gone!
As for your comments on motorsport, words fail me, I doubt we would ever agree on any subject somehow :-X
-
Is not all sport - to quote born2run - irresponsible , waste of time, waste of fuel if applicable), waste of money, and a waste of lives?
People die following all sports, as do animals, and they all cost time, and money to stage - look at the enormous cost to society of the Olympics which every time introduces "new" sports. This time it is womens' boxing! Total waste of money and a major security risk in this day and age. Glad that I won't be down the Smoke during the debacle! >>> Discuss!
-
you could apply that argument to doing anything at all, being born is risky, should we all stay indoors and do nothing (that's very risky healthwise!) I'd much rather have a world with thrills, excitement and danger anytime D)
-
thrills, excitement and danger
That's what the Forum is for! :laugh: $good$
-
thrills, excitement and danger
That's what the Forum is for! :laugh: $good$
;D $3towns$
-
you could apply that argument to doing anything at all, being born is risky, should we all stay indoors and do nothing (that's very risky healthwise!) I'd much rather have a world with thrills, excitement and danger anytime D)
I didn't say ban all sport I just said it was a waste of money! I enjoy my sports from my Car Club to wrestling and fencing to table tennis. :golf:
-
I agree with.......FESTER $good$
Richard Brunstrom once described dangerous driving as as bad as sticking a knife in someone, and he wasn't far wrong.
As anyone who has lost friends or relatives in road accidents caused by dangerous driving will no doubt testify.
Completely irresponsible sport, waste of time, waste of fuel, waste of money, and as the death of Dan Whealdon recently (and countless others in the past) proved.... Motorsport is a waste of lives.
.
Richard Brunstrom , one of the most misguided people in recent times, thank goodness he's gone!
As for your comments on motorsport, words fail me, I doubt we would ever agree on any subject somehow :-X
Merddin and Born to Run have more in common than they realise, (you have never met, but I know you both)... and I can inform you that you have identical eating preferences! Picky buggers the pair of them.
-
yes, I have little interest in food, it must be vegetarian, simple stuff and cheap, I rarely eat out as it always seems so dear :o :o :laugh:
-
yes, I have little interest in food, it must be vegetarian, simple stuff and cheap, I rarely eat out as it always seems so dear :o :o :laugh:
I think you will find a kindred spirit.... in Born to Run!
He won't even eat anything that casts a shadow!
I feel so sad for him after each darts match, there is always a vast array of food for the players, and B2R has always been to the gym before games so must be hungry.
Then, he sifts forlornly through the sandwiches, and almost always walks away empty handed.
-
yes, I have little interest in food, it must be vegetarian, simple stuff and cheap, I rarely eat out as it always seems so dear :o :o :laugh:
I think you will find a kindred spirit.... in Born to Run!
He won't even eat anything that casts a shadow!
I feel so sad for him after each darts match, there is always a vast array of food for the players, and B2R has always been to the gym before games so must be hungry.
Then, he sifts forlornly through the sandwiches, and almost always walks away empty handed
;D Very true - though the Kings arms did have Cheese and Tomato which made for an excellent suprise!
Conservative club tomorrow - I'm not expecting I'll be able to eat anything there!
-
Wales Rally GB 2011: the World Rally Championship showdown - Telegraph http://tgr.ph/u2MAWC (http://tgr.ph/u2MAWC)
-
Plans to stage “ceremonial” start to Wales Rally GB in Llandudno criticised - Wales News - News - WalesOnline http://bit.ly/JOpbu3 (http://bit.ly/JOpbu3)
-
Very interesting.
I wonder what the background is to this sentence? It has never been a problem before.
It’s understood a decision was made against a stage in North Wales this year because the toll road around the Great Orme cannot be closed when the rally comes north
.
-
I thought the same, then we had the usual twaddle from the green party! &shake&
-
Before I post I must point out that the below is my personal view, and not necessarily that of any organisation I'm involved with!!! (Those who know me will understand that!)
The reason that the Orme is not being used is some peculiar regulation put in by the FIA which says that you cannot have both tarmac and gravel (forest) stage surfaces on the same day. What happened last year, where they ran the Orme then went to Clocaenog, is not to be repeated.
The Orme could be closed by the Council to run a stage if it was deemed that it was needed. The Cambrian Rally (which is totally a separate event from the Wales Rally GB) will be applying for the closure of the Orme on October 20th.
As I understand it, the Welsh Assembly (who are sponsoring the event) required the event to partly take place in north Wales (after all we are all part of the same Wales as those in Cardiff) and the way this was catered for is by having the shakedown stage near Neath on the Wednesday, travel to Llandudno overnight and/or Thursday morning - ceremonial start in Llandudno Thursday evening then put the cars into parc ferme (probably on the Prom as last year) then leave Llandudno early Friday morning for the first gravel/forest stage south of Bala.
There will be ceremonial dinners in Llandudno and the whole circus will be making use of the many hotel rooms. So, for the spectator there is just the ceremonial start or an early watch as they depart Friday morning. Hardly likely to bring in the spectators as last year, which was more successful than many dreamed of (me included).
For those of us who are involved in local motor sport (and I've been involved over 40 years) the whole thing is a most unsatisfactory state of affairs, views that are shared by many others including the world rally teams.
(As for the green environmentally friendly angle - I wonder how green was today's passing of the candle with the whole entourage that accompanied it!!!)
As I said at the start - these are my personal views, and not those of any organisation I'm involved with!
-
Thank you for expressing your opinion, DVT.
Whilst your explanation is more than credible, unfortunately, it is at variance with the published statement which must make the situation even more frustrating for a long-standing enthusiast such as yourself.
Hopefully, we shall receive an explanation from an official source in due course.
If you hear before us then please let us know as I do not believe anybody has ever complained before about the toll road being closed for one day a car rally and certainly not the Wales GB Rally.
It’s understood a decision was made against a stage in North Wales this year because the toll road around the Great Orme cannot be closed when the rally comes north
.
-
Hopefully this is just another hic cup......
Cambrian Rally in doubt amid row over 'impassable' courses
Natural Resources Wales has told organisers that it is 'not acceptable' for them to carry out road repairs and maintenance without permission.
The Cambrian Rally , which is due to come to Denbighshire, Conwy and parts of Gwynedd, could be called off after the North Wales Car Club found parts of the course are in such a bad state that some vehicles won’t be able to negotiate the route.
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/cambrian-rally-doubt-amid-row-12480379 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/cambrian-rally-doubt-amid-row-12480379)
The event starts and finishes on Llandudno promenade on February 11, with rally HQ again being based at the conveniently located St George’s Hotel, with scrutineering at the nearby Victoria Centre carpark.
http://cambrianrally.co.uk/news/2016/route-for-2017 (http://cambrianrally.co.uk/news/2016/route-for-2017)
-
The press information was certainly the situation as at the time it was written (Thuesday morning) but not by the time it was published (this morning)!!!
As things stand at the moment (and it's mid-day Friday 20th) the event will be running. This year has probably been the most difficult for the organising team - starrting with the 100% price hike by NRW (Forestry) for the use of the roads - so instead of us paying £700 per mile we would be required to pay £1400 per mile - consequently the entry fee would almost double and make it unaffordable to most competitors.
An organisation, Rally4Wales, was formed and their proposal to carry out the repairs after the event has more or less been agreed with all concerned.
However, there are now other issues so at the moment the original planned route is not viable.
We have Plan B and discussions are taking place as I write this, as I am given to understand that there is also a Plan C!
Cancelling the event is the last thing we want to do but we have to offer customers value for money as well as ensure the safety of everyone involved.
The event has attracted over 100 entries from all corners of the UK, including a contingency from Ireland and another from Scotland. The event helps the local economy by an estimated £400k, so we have the support of many.
-
DVT. Hope all goes as planned A B or C.... $good$
I did not realise the expense involved, and 700 a mile, seems excessive without any further increases, why does it cost so much ?
-
Cambrian Rally back on the road after new route is negotiated
It was feared the 62nd event would not go ahead because of the condition of the track, but organisers have redesigned the course.
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/cambrian-rally-back-road-after-12513834 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/cambrian-rally-back-road-after-12513834)