Day Five and the FINISH

The last day of Targa Newdoundland did not let us sit back and cruise. The first challenge to all competitors, especially for the grand touring navigators, was a change in finish line for the first section and a change of start for the second section. That means we had to recalculate not only the odometer readings in our route books that mark the turns we call, but also made us recalculate the target times we each mark in our own books to keep us in pace (and two sets of these notes based on 2 potential road conditions). I'll take a photo later of the mess in my book to show what I mean. Talk about math under pressure and against the clock. I haven't done this much math since high school! The only saving grace was that everyone in the GT class was in the same boat so we lol racked up some penalties together. 

Our staging area before the second section looked out over this island. Mom, dad found your summer vacation house! Good for water dogs. 

All racers ere happy to see day 5 and still be on the road. 

Some had a more adventurous day:

Our friends Jack (driver) and CJ (navigator) had an unplanned roll before lunch. Thank the Lord for the sturdy and safe car that Steve (CJ's husband, left) built. There was lots of gravel in a corner and the mustang slid into the corner and ditch and rolled, landing back on her feet. As roll cages are supposed to work, CJ and Jack walked away. Sore, but safe. They even drive the car across the finish. Despite the accident, they won their class and placed in their division. 

After crossing the ceremonial finish, our cars were all parked in a park in Brigus. We all celebrated and breathed sighs of relief while awaiting the unofficial awards ceremony. More on racing through Brigus later! A sneak preview description: Dad describes it as driving like you just robbed the bank and are being chased by the cops through back allies. 

Received our finishers medals and Dad's traditional celebratory cigar! 

We are humbled to take top honors in the humble class of UnEquiped Grand Touring. It is an honor to share the stage with these racers. Many thanks to all who helped give us navigational tips and guidance and to Robson Racing of Ottawa for preparing and excellent car! 

It was a luxury to sleep in a little this morning and have more than 5 hours of sleep. The awards gala is tonight and we have to pack up the car today. We also have some time to explore St. John's and sightsee.