Wed 14th June | Thurs 15th June | Fri 16th June | Sat 17th June | Latest | Pendine
(Please note, the latest events are first, to read about the day's progress please scroll down the page.)
The team have returned from the beach having completed a series of test runs with the new Bluebird Electric. They managed to achieve three successful runs along the 4 mile stretch of sand here at Pendine. The speed of the third run was well in excess of our current record. The best time achieved was 123.9mph and we are all excited for the prospects that tomorrow holds.
Preparations are in hand to welcome spectators to Pendine tomorrow, park and ride facilities are arranged at Llanmiloe (approximately 2 miles east of Pendine on the approach from Laugharne). Medical facilities will be at hand on the beach in case of emergencies and a PA system will be on the beach to keep spectators informed of progress. Our Thanks also go the the fire and safety crew from Rover Group who have supported us throughout and have given up their weekend to be with us. Without them, we could not run.
As the tide begins to go out tomorrow morning team members will immediately prepare the beach to clear it of debris washed in by the tide... the course will then be marked out and the timing equipment will be put in place by the time keepers. If all goes to plan Bluebird will make its appearance on the sand by lunchtime.
To break a land speed record two runs must be completed in opposite directions... one run out and a return run, both across the same measured mile. This must be done within an hour from setting out.
As you can imagine this can be a nerve racking time for all team members. You will certainly be able to feel the tension on the beach. It is also a difficult time for those who have finished their work... body designer Paul Sparrow says that he is happy with the aerodynamics of the car... that no sand is being lifted by airflow in its wake. All he can do now is sit back and see how it performs tomorrow.
Emyr Wyn Morris
WebSlave, Bluebird Electric.
Scrutineers gave Bluebird a thorough examination this morning and the car has been given official OK to run.
The car is now on the sand, the course is prepared and is ok, although not as smooth as Don would like. Nevertheless testing is due to start in the next few minutes.
David Hammond-Williams
Media Liaison
Things are looking good. The good weather has finally reached Pendine and all the team members are on station. The mood is upbeat following some encouraging test results on the tarmac yesterday afternoon, when Bluebird Electric achieved speeds in excess of 75mph over a distance of 2000 yards (the beach is four miles!). Don Wales needs to average approx. 120mph over the measured mile if he is to break his own UK National Record for EVs and that would appear to be well within his sights based on these results. The Course team are following the tide out on to the beach in order to assess the state of the sand and choose the best course for test runs on the sand planned for this afternoon. Future success will depend largely on their verdict.
The Media Centre will be open for business from approx. 2pm this afternoon in the Parry Thomas Memorial Hall (on the left hand side as you approach the village from the east). All media personnel will require accreditation if they want access to the beach.
David Hammond-Williams
Media Liaison
Pendine, how to get there and where to stay.
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