President’s Report – November 2013
Welcome back to those who attended the recent National Meeting. Alex Smithson gave us a glowing report from the National Meeting, it always sounds like lots of fun, and I’m sure a detailed report will be in Trak for you all to read. It was great to hear all made it there and back safely and no major mechanical problems were encountered. Before buying my first Triumph, and shortly thereafter, I heard of some scary stories of Triumphs being unreliable, the Prince of Darkness always lurking etc, but although I have had a few minor issues that have been easily fixed, despite letting the Spitfire sit still for months on end it always starts and runs with no major drama.
I loved hearing Phil Bagust’s story of his Triumph 2000 being dragged from the jaws of a crusher and knee high weeds etc, within hours the Saloon was running and could be driven with transmission, brakes etc. My Spitfire was sitting still in a shed for around 7 or 8 years when I simply poured petrol in it, a fresh battery and it started.
I’m sure the men that built these cars 50 years ago would be so proud to hear how these cars have survived and continue to run today.
No doubt they would also be impressed with their modern day equivalent men (and women) who have rebuilt these cars and maintained them to very high standards. It was truly a pleasure to hear that some cars from our club picked up a trophy or two at the National Meeting and a big Congratulations to Noel & Cindy Schmidt who not only presented their Triumph to TSOA concours standards and awards and not only to a level that stood out above hundreds of other marques and exotics in Noosa, but themselves also in best dressed events.
The Day of Triumph is just around the corner. If you are reading this online on our Website then you still have time to bring your Triumph, in any condition, along. It does not need to be shining, perfect, fast or judged, just put it on display and proudly show off your piece of Triumph history.
Better still, invite your friends to come along to support you and see your car and others like it. Invite them along to the All Triumph Observation Run also. There are still Triumphs for sale in Adelaide, from $1,200 to Oh my Gosh how much , and as a club it would be great to see so many more Triumphs saved from doom, be maintained and on the road participating actively in our club.
Till next time, drive safely.
Duane Kaak