In an exhilarating turn of events, Wallace Menzies carved his name back into the spotlight of the British Hillclimb Championship with a hard-earned victory at Harewood last weekend. This milestone marks Menzies’ first top-12 run-off success since his previous win at Wiscombe Park in July 2023, an absence that had fans and the motorsport community alike eagerly anticipating his return to form. Following a tumultuous 2024 season filled with challenges—including a significant accident at the Craigantlet season-opener—Menzies’ victory becomes not just a personal triumph but a symbol of resilience in a sport defined by its unpredictability.
Menzies’ journey back to the top of the hill was no overnight success. In a game where the competition is fierce and every second counts, he spent the better part of the past year tirelessly working to regain his competitive edge. With the specter of a victory drought looming large over him, this latest success is a testament to both his dedication as a four-time champion and the unwavering support of his team.
Strategic Tyre Management in High-Stakes Conditions
The Harewood event proved to be an intense battleground, underscored by the vital importance of tyre strategy under sunny Yorkshire skies. As the year progresses, the reality of limited tyre supplies becomes increasingly pronounced, making it imperative for drivers to make every ounce of rubber last. The tangible tension surrounding tyre management was palpable, as competitors navigated the abrasive Harewood surface, turning the challenge into a game of chess each time they took to the track.
Menzies and his team approached the race with a defined strategy for their tyre selection, a meticulous plan that paid off immensely. In the first run-off, Menzies clocked a time of 47.40 seconds, just edging out rival Matt Ryder by a mere 0.013 seconds. This nail-biting finish speaks volumes about both the precision and skill required to compete at such a high level. “This is pretty sweet,” Menzies exclaimed post-race, encapsulating the relief and joy of securing a win after such a protracted phase without one.
Rivalries Fueling the Fire
The rivalry between Menzies and Matt Ryder is a key narrative thread woven throughout the hillclimb championship. Ryder’s recognition of Menzies’ achievement, offering a hearty congratulations, reflects the camaraderie present even amongst fierce competitors. Their wheel-to-wheel battles not only heighten the drama of the events but serve as a driving force that encourages both men to push their limits.
In spite of falling just short in the first run-off, Ryder displayed tenacity and adaptability, quickly swapping out his rear tyres mid-event to take a shot at reclaiming the single-tenths advantage. He clocked in at 47.49 seconds, a strong showing that served notice to Menzies that the competition was far from over. “My second run-off was smooth and clean, but just too safe,” Menzies admitted, hinting at the psychological stakes of this rivalry—one that keeps both drivers on their toes and audiences on the edge of their seats.
A New Generation of Competitors
In addition to the established heroes like Menzies and Ryder, the Harewood event showcased an impressively competitive field of rising stars. The performances of younger drivers such as Jack Cottrill and Tom Weaver not only reflect their potential but hint at the future trajectory of the sport. Their profiles are steadily gaining prominence, adding an exciting dynamic to the competition landscape that was once dominated by well-known names.
With Cottrill finishing strong, including a fourth-place finish in the second run-off, there’s a palpable sense of excitement about how these emerging talents will shape the competitive narrative in the seasons ahead. David Warburton and Alex Coles also demonstrated their growth as formidable competitors, each securing solid positions among the top 10. Their presence signifies a generational shift that could redefine the contours of the British Hillclimb Championship.
Wallace Menzies’ victory at Harewood is not merely a return to form; it represents the persistence and grit inherent in motorsport. The excitement of the hillclimb championship continues to build, driven by fierce rivalries, evolving strategies, and the emergence of new talent, ensuring that the roar of engines in Yorkshire will be heard for many seasons to come.