Bombers and Bikes, Day 10. Sachsenring Day 2

 Just one of those days.

Up earlier than usual, as being a qualifying and race day, it would be a lot busier than yesterday. Weather, superb and was to reach the predicted 29 degrees. As per Assen, we needed plenty of sun screen, as our stand is uncovered. One very large fly in the ointment was, that they were forecasting thunderstorms for around 4pm.

The ride, second time around, was much easier, as we knew where we were going. At the park and ride, I managed to go in the right entrance this time, but instead of being directed near the roadside, like yesterday, we were some way into the field, amongst a growing sea of cars. The attendant offered us the German sidestand 'puck', which we declined.

The 'puck', 1 inch thick piece of wood

Changed into our shorts, etc, we made our way to the bus stop. One bus was just about full. No problem, we thought, we'll be on first on the the one behind. That was until, the driver decided to open his doors where he was. Still, we adopted the German queueing technique and managed to squeeze on.

At the circuit, we found our proper seats (the row in front of where we sat yesterday), and enjoyed some good qualifying and an E-Moto race, before the main event, the MotoGP Sprint race, at 3pm. These are 10 lap, all out, all action, fairing bashing affairs, whereas the main race is 26 laps and somewhat more considered. The race was won by Jorge Martin, to extend his lead in the Championship over nearest rival, and double MotoGP champion, Pecco Bagnaia.

We were thinking of staying on to watch the Northern Talent Cup youngsters (future GP stars) but the wind had got up and the dark clouds had crept up behind us, so we decided to head back to the bikes.

The queue for the buses was huge, so we decided to walk. Two thirds of the way to the car park, the first spots of rain arrived. I fished my waterproof poncho out of my backpack. Within minutes though, the heavens had opened, so by the time I found my way to the bike (Phil was some way behind), my shorts and trainers were soaked! ⛈ 

Now the issue was, how to get riding gear out of the bike and change into it, with rain lashing down and thunder and lightning overhead, whilst standing in the middle of a big field. Luckily, the rain eased, so we were able to unpack and get changed without getting too much wetter. Needless to say, the ride back wasn't all that pleasant.

Once back at the hotel, a major drying operation began. Luckily, the radiators were working, so dialled up to max, we had plenty of heat to start drying things out.

We arrived home in time to see the England v Switzerland Euro Quarter Final. Another tortuous game to watch but the boys came good in the penalty shoot out, so Holland next. Come on England!

 As soon as the footie finished we headed around the corner again, to the chinese. Places in town all seemed to be closed or closing soon, so we had little choice.The chinese was really handy though and good value. We shared a couple of dishes again and washed them down with a Bitburger or two. 🍻 

Back at the hotel, I've set tomorrow's alarm for a bit earlier. Main race day is sure to be much busier than today, so we aim to get on the road earlier.