Michael Lyons has claimed Race 1 honours in the Archibolds Historic Touring Cars at Pukekohe, the race-pace of his 1998 Nissan Primera ex-touring car too quick for a fast-starting Greg Murphy, who led early proceedings.
The straight-line speed of Murphy’s Whitikers Sierra saw him take the lead after qualifying third fastest, a vacant front row spot left by a non-starting John Bowe allowing a clean overtake on pole-sitter Lyons.
Starting sixth, also in a Sierra, Brett Stevens also got a great launch and was quickly up to second by Turn 1 ahead of Lyons. The Brit, Lyons, quickly regained second spot on Lap 2, before going about hunting down Murphy for the lead.
The straight line speed of the Sierra was impressive from Murphy, however Lyons went about making time up through slower parts of the circuit to take the race lead on Lap 5.
There was a hairy moment for the number 62 Honda Accord of Nigel Arkell in the mid-stages, a loose bonnet pin seeing the hood fly up and obstruct vision on the far side of the circuit. He managed to slowly crawl back into the pits, withdrawing from the race.
At the front, Lyons pulled away to take the chequered flag, with Murphy 3 seconds back in second. The Skyline of Stu Rogers also managed an overtake on Stevens in the closing stages, which saw him claim the last podium spot.
Veteran Australian racer John Bowe failed to take to the circuit, mechanical difficulties in his Sierra seeing him confined to the pits.
Race 2 today gets underway at 1pm.
Banner Image: Historic Touring Cars of NZ (Facebook)
