THE third round of the Skoda trophy saw Burton-in-Kendal's Steve Head and Andrew Dugdale alias Team Penguin, in second place in the premier one make series.

Carnforth's Geoff Crabtree, who co-drives for Nuneaton's Kevin Gibbs were just one point ahead in equal first place as they went to the Pirelli Cumbria Rally, which as it uses Carisle as its base, is classed as a home event.

The first two stages were spectator orientated at Carlisle Airport and Gibbs/Crabtree ran out with a three second advantage as they headed for the first forest stage. With the Skoda Felicia of Gibbs having a mid-stage problem Head was clearly ahead and also took nearly 45 seconds out of Gibbs on the Kershope stage. As the event only used the first five stage and a total of 61 competitive stage miles, Gibbs had it all to do on the last 18 mile section.

With Gibbs/Crabtree running first on the road they had to attack all the time and unfortunately the 1600 engine let go half way into the final section. As they stopped to assess the damage they saw Team Penguin upside down across the valley, having clipped a rock and become airborne. With both crews out and failing to score they go to Siverstone at the end of May with point to make as they continue their quest to take the Skoda Challenge Trophy for '98.

In close competition last weekend was Arnside's Wayne Sisson, who finished second in the Seat Super Six Series which used the Plains Rally in Wales as the third round of the new Championship.

After a couple of low scores Wayne finished well and now has points to build on to make his bid for the Seat drive for the 1999 season.

Team Penguin stranded just four miles from the finish.

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