The 33rd Isle of Wight Triumph Weekend started officially on Friday 28th April, although a few members had begun to trickle into Waverley Park the day before.
Thankfully the weather improved dramatically for our Friday arrival after a five hour drive. Once out, the sun shone pretty much all weekend. As always, The terrace and bar was soon buzzing with people meeting and greeting friends old and new. The ‘Triumph Ale’ was very tasty with the first barrel being emptied within 2 hours, and as the sun set over the sea, we drifted off to our bed with eager anticipation of the days ahead.
Saturday’s run saw around 70 Triumphs convoy the 60 scenic miles, including the ever-popular Old Military Road, to Calbourne Mill, to become part of their Vintage Weekend. As well as us Triumphs, there were singers, dancers, ice cream and museum displays for our enjoyment. Back at Waverley Park, the evening’s entertainment was live music and more happy chat.
Sunday’s run took us to the IoW Bus Museum in Ryde, where we were treated to a burger and a free ride on a vintage bus, as well as the opportunity to have a mooch around the museum. Then it was back to the campsite to await the arrival of the ice-cream van, the queue, and subsequent smiles, proof that this is another popular Triumph Weekend tradition! Sunday evening was bingo night in the bar.
One last run on Monday for those on the later crossings, was to the Folly Inn for a spot of lunch before heading for home. Another Triumphant weekend, amazing venue, fabulous hosts, and perfect weather.
TSSC SEM Weekend
Another long-term favourite season-starter, run by Mickey and Julie and their band of helpers, is the South of England meet. Traditionally the weekend after the Isle of Wight, it feels like you’ve hardly said goodbye and it’s time to say hello again.
There’s a slightly different feel to the camping here, with back to basics camping available from the Friday afternoon. With the forecast of showers all day Saturday, plus the big event going on in the capital, there were only a handful of members pitching up on the Friday, followed by a few more on the Saturday. While Mickey did have some suggested drive-outs available, we opted for the short walk to Leatherhead high street to sample the local bar and watch the Coronation.
Saturday evening saw the campers split into two groups, with some continuing to enjoy the local hospitality and the rest congregating around George’s fire pit for a natter.
Sunday arrived and thankfully brought an end to the rain. A steady stream of Triumphs arrived throughout the morning for the ‘show day’ with the weather getting better and better as the day went on.
This is a busy TSSC weekend, second only to the National, with a selection of auto traders as well as the TSSC club shop in attendance. Members were able to book up for club valuations, engine tuning and trunnion oiling.
As you’d expect there were some amazing Triumphs present, including an immaculate Toledo and Vitesse. Judges (including yours truly) were asked to consider the story behind the car, rather than just the condition, when awarding prizes in the various categories.
The Herald even cane away with a prize. Runner up Best Herald, 13 years after winning Best Herald at the show in 2010.