Northants Navigation Rally 2022

Mick Leach has sent this report and photographs. Eddy.

Sunday 4th September.
I woke while it was still dark, the weather forecast was iffy but it was dry. I met Andy and we rode to Stapenhill to meet Malcolm. This run could as easily been called the MBRDR, Malcolm Bridges Rain Dodgers Run. Malcolm provided us with copies of the routes for the day and then I delayed us setting off because it had started to rain and decided to put on my waterproof overtrousers. It rained lightly for the first few miles but then that was it.
On arrival at Earle's Barton we were surprised to see the site still locked and Trevor Pinfold the organiser busy on his phone trying to resolve the situation. By now there was quite a queue behind us stretching back onto the street. Soon a lady appeared, the gates unlocked and we were all getting acquainted.
We signed on got, our final instructions then enjoyed a drink while the bacon and sausage was cooking.
The rally had classes for all ages of motorcycle, we were in the late classic and modern groups. Both groups had to visit 12 places of interest where we would find a clue to be recorded and also visit three manned checkpoints where questions were asked on loosely motorcycle topics. These included films which was to my advantage being old enough to remember the "Wild One" and "Girl on a Motorcycle". Overall found it hard to recall some of the answers.
Malcolm thought time could be tight as the last manned checkpoint, The Old Crown at Ashton closed at 2 30pm. He was right as we didn't get there till 2 15pm. After answering the final six questions I had a chat with an 81 year old fellow CB250 owner and spent some time comparing notes. We returned to Earle's Barton with plenty of time in hand to sign off, have tea, sandwiches and a rest before we set off home.
The journey home was pleasant and dry with some sunshine until we got on Tutbury road where the road was really wet. Apparently heavy showers had occurred during the day.
Thank you to Trevor Pinfold and the Northampton Section for staging a first class event and to Malcolm for planning the route and organising a great day out.
Mick Leach.

Our motorcycles ready for the rally

Malcolm and Andy collecting answers

Enthusiastic couple from Leicester

Malcolm's route