Alfa Romeo Owners Club of Queensland (Inc)

ALFACOMP - Driver Profiles

ALFACOMP attracts a wide variety of Club Members and vehicles; from the ultra-competitive speed freaks, to owners just wanting to experience the enjoyment of driving their Alfa on a racetrack. Each ALFACOMP participant has their own story to tell.

Lee Morrissey

Born: 1975
Previous motor racing experience: Some Go-Kart racing experience as well as Street Sprint Circuits around QLD
Number of years competing in Alfacomp: 4
Competes in Class: Racing 1601-2000cc
Personal Best on QR Sprint circuit: 63.21

Vehicle model, year and colour: 1977 Alfetta GTV 2000, Blue/White/Silver
Vehicle engine capacity: 1962cc
Is this Alfa still road registered? No

How did you get started in Alfacomp? Through my Step Father Colin Wenzel and his friend Bruce Wieland. Colin and I were planning on building a Ford Escort to compete in Sprint/Racing events but after Colin's experience at Targa 2003 in Bruce's Alfetta GTV, we decided to head down this path instead.

Why did you choose to race this particular model Alfa? Firstly for the availability and the relative low cost for parts. Secondly because of the well balanced design of the 116 series GTV.

Any planned vehicle changes/modifications for 2008? Lexan windows, Roll cage, exhaust mods (less decibels), limited slip diff.

Alfacomp goals for 2008: 1st 116 Series Alfa in Racing 1601-2000cc.

Any advice for Alfisti considering entering the ALFACOMP? Drive it like you stole it!!!!!

Mitch Congram

Born: 1987
Previous motor racing experience: Nil
Number of years competing in Alfacomp: 1
Competes in Class: Modified 2001+ (previous Class winner)
Personal Best on QR Sprint circuit: 71.23

Vehicle model, year and colour: 1987 Alfa 75 V6 – Grey/Green
Vehicle engine capacity: 2492cc
Is this Alfa still road registered? Sure is, daily driver that certainly isn’t babied anywhere.

How did you get started in Alfacomp? I had been a spectator at several Saturday Sprints in 2006 to watch other Alfisti and friends blatt around the track. After finally managing to organise a Saturday off work I took on the Sprint circuit in April 2007 and have been trying to get to every Sprint session since, it’s addictive fun.

Why did you choose to race this particular model Alfa? Whilst it is the only Alfa I own, the family also has a stable of 75s which influenced my decision to buy one originally. The fairly good range of aftermarket parts available for the 75 has also influenced me to start building a dedicated track whilst still retaining the Alfa heritage instead of being tempted by the Jap boys.

Any planned vehicle changes/modifications for 2008? A lot on the cards, body modifications and a new lick of paint are planned for aesthetics, moderate suspension work to tighten everything up, and the odd ‘secret’ engine plans await in the wings for final completion. Our dedicated track car will have a little less luxury and more serious modifications. What gets done depends on when I find the time and convince myself to get into the shed and get working.

Alfacomp goals for 2008: Simply working on the PB is the primary goal, getting the track car going and getting out to the Super Sprint series at Morgan Park for some more fun.

Any advice for Alfisti considering entering the ALFACOMP? Certainly don’t be afraid to get out and have a go – You don’t have to be running dedicated track cars to have fun, run what you have and enjoy it. Once you come out once you’ll soon realise the addiction we all have and be coming out everytime!

Brent Hampstead

Born: 1966
Previous motor racing experience: Nil
Number of years competing in Alfacomp: 1
Competes in Class: Road 1601-2000 (2007 Winner)
Personal Best on QR Sprint circuit: 67.44

Vehicle model, year and colour: Alfa 75 Twin Spark, 1989, Red
Vehicle engine capacity: 1962cc
Is this Alfa still road registered? Yes, but it is dedicated to track work and early morning runs on country roads.

How did you get started in Alfacomp? I ventured to Qld Raceway to check out the AROCA Qld 2006 Regularity and the racing seed was planted. I then attended a very informative “getting started” session organized by the club at the workplace of Bob Whitehouse. This session gave me a little more confidence that the track could possibly be the place for me. Over the next six months Julian Lord brought my Twin Spark up to perfect, standard mechanical condition and in March 2007 I made my track debut at the QR Saturday Afternoon Sprints (a very modest 74.04 sec). From there I was hooked and spent the year chipping away at improving the car and my driving skills – and managed to set a PB each time I hit the track. Now I’m ready for the difficult second year. I’m sure the seconds will be a lot harder to reduce now that I’ve trimmed off the easy ones.
Why did you choose to race this particular model Alfa? The simple answer is it was the only Alfa I had at the time. However, I did look at keeping it in road trim and purchasing a purpose built track car. In the end I chose to race the Twin Spark because no-one else was and because I wanted the experience of making every little change from scratch.

Any planned vehicle changes/modifications for 2008? Yes, exhaust, slight suspension tweaks and more weight reduction. 2009 may see an engine rebuild.

Alfacomp goals for 2008: A top 6 finish in the comp and to help Qld knock off NSW in the Alfa Romeo East Coast Challenge.

Any advice for Alfisti considering entering the ALFACOMP? Seek out the experienced campaigners and ask a LOT of questions. Go for safety before speed. If you’ve ever had a vague interest in the track, give it a go as it is serious, serious fun!

Mark Jackson

Born: 1952
Previous motor racing experience: In 1976-77 I owned a 1600 cc Ford powered sports car called a KM200. This was the most unreliable car I’ve ever owned and I was lucky to finish a practice session, and never finished a race. 1979 – 1981 we went rallying in a Gemini. The best result was 3rd in class in the Lutwyche Shopping Village Rally which was the Qld round of the ARC. We also managed a couple of class wins in local rallies. 1987 – 1990 it was back to circuit racing in the Gemini Series. Again, great fun but those guys played rough and you never went home without a couple of dents. I had probably my most frightening moment on a race track in one of these events. After a shower of rain the track was drying out and everyone was trying a little harder. I managed to spin at about 130 kph on the fairly gentle right-hander just before the bridge at Lakeside. We travelled sideways under the bridge for about 200 metres before gently nudging the fence on the outside of the circuit with the back of the car.
Number of years competing in Alfacomp: 5
Competes in Class: Racing 1601-2000
Personal Best on QR Sprint circuit: 63.89

Vehicle model, year and colour: Alfetta Sedan, 1980, Maroon
Vehicle engine capacity: 1962cc
Is this Alfa still road registered? No

How did you get started in Alfacomp? In 2002, I decided to get involved in motor racing again after a fairly long break, and went to Speed on Tweed just for a look. I wasn’t sure what car I was after but the Alfas were just so impressive I was totally hooked.

Why did you choose to race this particular model Alfa? To be honest, it came down to availability and price. I didn’t want to spend a fortune on a race car but the Alfettas really impressed with their handling.

Any planned vehicle changes/modifications for 2008? This year Mike Halasz and I should have a new Alfetta sedan ready to go by the first Top Gear event. This car should be a major step up from the old car, but there are certain to be a few teething problems.

Alfacomp goals for 2008: To win!

Any advice for Alfisti considering entering the ALFACOMP? Unless you want the experience of developing a race car, buy one that’s had most of the work already done. You’ll save a fortune and be on the track a lot sooner. If you do wish to develop your own car, start with brakes, suspension and tyres and remove as much weight as possible. Engine development costs a lot of money and can come later. A good seat and harness are a must, and put in a roll cage if at all possible.

Bernard Mangelsdorf

Born: 1985
Previous motor racing experience: Gokarts, driver training events, nothing serious. Had a drive of the Nurburgring last year in June which was awesome (in a 75 TS), been meaning to write up an article about that.
Number of years competing in Alfacomp: 2
Competes in Class: Racing 2001+ (previous Class winner)
Personal Best on QR Sprint circuit: 61.73

Vehicle model, year and colour: Alfa 75, 1986, Silver
Vehicle engine capacity: 3L, 24v from a 164
Is this Alfa still road registered? Yes, but it might not be that way forever.

How did you get started in Alfacomp? Attended a driver training day at QR when the 75 was standard still, had some great fun then started attending the QR track days once it was modified some more.

Why did you choose to race this particular model Alfa? Dad gave the car to me when I got my license, has owned it since new.

Any planned vehicle changes/modifications for 2008? Rollcage, a passenger seat, more suspension tweaks, data logger, electronic dash system, etc etc the list goes on.

Alfacomp goals for 2008: Top in class, more points overall, attend more events, enter topgear, break 60 seconds at QR, enter Morgan Park and Lakeside if it opens.

Any advice for Alfisti considering entering the ALFACOMP? Bite the bullet, have a go and see if you enjoy it. If so, feed the addiction! If anyone wants to ask me anything, feel free to email me; mezevenf@gmail.com

Ken Percival

Born: 1961
Previous motor racing experience: 1993 Competition Award AROCA Qld, Lakeside in my turbo hybrid and stock 1.8 Alfetta GT and stock 105 Jnr . Mt Cotton Hillclimb 1992-93 Class winner.
Number of years competing in Alfacomp: 6
Competes in Class: Racing 1601-2000 (previous Class winner)
Personal Best on QR Sprint circuit: 62.13

Vehicle model, year and colour: Giulia Gt 1300 Junior (type 105.31) manufactured on the 14th April 1969 and sold on 22nd July 1969 to Alec Mildren Alfa, Pymble, Australia. The body colour is White with Red nose and stickers (like owner) with black interior.
Vehicle engine capacity: 1962cc
Is this Alfa still road registered? Yes – Historic rego

How did you get started in Alfacomp? I watched 2001 Historics at QR with the club on the hill and thought: Bugger this, I want to be out there with those guys, I’m sure I wont come last. I restored the Junior and raced in regularity in 2002 and won my first event, I was hooked

Why did you choose to race this particular model Alfa? Closest thing to a GTA 105 coupe, the ultimate 60’s Alfa in my eyes, great fun to drive sideways or straight ahead, love to follow one (Andrew Wilson of course) under the bridge at Morgan Park full noise in 3rd powersliding on 3 wheels, I grin my head off, what a sight.

Any planned vehicle changes/modifications for 2008? New ignition, adjustable front sway bar

Alfacomp goals for 2008: Learn more racecraft, race at more tracks (Bathurst, Wakefield Park NSW)

Any advice for Alfisti considering entering the ALFACOMP? Safety equipment 1st, you will be glad for all the protection you have when your upside down or crashed into a wall, on fire, with your gloves, balaclava, Helmet, fireproof suit and/or underwear and shoes, roll cage, fire extinguisher, safety fuel cell, ignition kill switch etc . Don’t think it can never happen to you. Kiss your wife and tell her you love her, she will have to put up with a bit of worry and let you spend money on go fast bits. Suspension 2nd, Tyres 3rd, Power last. Don’t forget to enjoy the adrenalin of driving a car you love fast and safe, you can’t beat it!

Andrew Tewes

Born: 1960
Previous motor racing experience: Nil
Number of years competing in Alfacomp: 4+
Competes in Class: Modified 1601-2000 (previous Class winner)
Personal Best on QR Sprint circuit: 64.22

Vehicle model, year and colour: 1984 Alfetta GTV 2.0, Red
Vehicle engine capacity: 1,962cc
Is this Alfa still road registered? Yes

How did you get started in Alfacomp? After joining the club in mid-2003 I found out about the Queensland Raceway ‘Saturday Afternoon Sprints’ and I attended my first session in September 2003.

Why did you choose to race this particular model Alfa? I have always liked Alfa Romeo cars, but in my teens I got hooked on the Alfetta GTV after reading the original Wheels road test.

Any planned vehicle changes/modifications for 2008? For 2008 my Alfetta is going back to ‘street trim’. I am taking it easy for this year and intending to return to Alfacomp in 2009.

Alfacomp goals for 2008: I intend to only take part in the Team Regularity events in 2008. They have been a ‘happy hunting ground’ for me and the event is well suited to a street-trim car.

Any advice for Alfisti considering entering the ALFACOMP? (1) Think about your personal safety – I strongly advise the use of a six-point FIA harness and to stay away from four-point or ‘street-legal’ harnesses. (2) Put together a reliable car – nothing spoils the fun as much as an avoidable mechanical failure. (3) Listen to the experienced Alfacomp competitors, understand and practice what they advise but ultimately aim to be able to form your own opinions about the car and driving techniques.

Dick Veenhof

Born: 1948
Previous motor racing experience: Navigator for rally car (Member of 1978 Roly Poly Club)
Number of years competing in Alfacomp: 1
Competes in Class: Modified 1601-2000 (2007 Novice Award)
Personal Best on QR Sprint circuit: 66.25

Vehicle model, year and colour: Junior Zagato, 1971, red
Vehicle engine capacity: 1962cc
Is this Alfa still road registered? Yes

How did you get started in Alfacomp? Hijacked by Ken Percival :)

Why did you choose to race this particular model Alfa? It asked me...

Any planned vehicle changes/modifications for 2008? Limited slip diff.

Alfacomp goals for 2008: 64 seconds (on the sprint circuit at QR).

Any advice for Alfisti considering entering the ALFACOMP? Come for a fast and safe drive and test the ABS and traction control and your skills – beware it’s addictive!

Bob Whitehouse

Born: 1941
Previous motor racing experience: Messed around with an MGB and an MG Midget.
Number of years competing in Alfacomp: 6
Competes in Class: Racing 1601-2000cc (previous Class winner and ALFACOMP Champion)
Personal Best on QR Sprint circuit: 60.83

Vehicle model, year and colour: Alfa Sprint, 1987, mostly black
Vehicle engine capacity: Boxer engine, 1800cc
Is this Alfa still road registered? Unfortunately not, although I think it would be lots fun.

How did you get started in Alfacomp? I guess a little competition is good for the soul, and if that competition can be done in an alfa what could be more entertaining and fulfilling. Having bought a new alfa GT junior in 1969 which I really enjoyed driving, I guess this was my start in the Alfacomp. The history attached to these great cars, with the fantastic accomplishments in racing events over the years, is more than enough for me to want to be involved in an event such as the Alfacomp. Add to this the outstanding camaraderie that exists in AROCA-Qld and you have a winning formula for a motoring event.

Why did you choose to race this particular model Alfa? When I investigated this model of Alfa, (which wasn’t until after I had purchased the car) I realized it how much opportunity it had going quickly. To add to its potential for speed was its simplicity and value for money. These boxer engine Alfas have got to be the best bang for a buck.

Any planned vehicle changes/modifications for 2008? Unfortunately my imagination cannot be held in check, so the Stealth Bomber is constantly under going changes. Larger carburetors, new ignition system and further weight reduction are on the menu.

Alfacomp goals for 2008: To try and get below the 60sec mark for the QR Sprint circuit.

Any advice for Alfisti considering entering the ALFACOMP? Just come out to the track and hangout with the very convivial group of participants. You will meet some very interesting people and see for yourself why we are having so much fun in our Alfa Romeos.

Jason Wishart

Born: 1971
Previous motor racing experience: Sprints, hillclimbs, regularity, motorkhanas and some short circuit racing.
Number of years competing in Alfacomp: Started active participation in 1993 – predating commencement of Alfacomp.
Competes in Class: Modified 2001+ (previous Class winner)
Personal Best on QR Sprint circuit: 63.01 in a 1974 2000 GTV

Vehicle model, year and colour: Alfa GTV6, 1983, Red
Vehicle engine capacity: 2.8 litres – has a bit more power than standard.
Is this Alfa still road registered? Yes

How did you get started in Alfacomp? Was one of the regular Alfa competitors that Ian Hyland approached to commence Alfacomp way back in ….? When was that? Time flies by!

Why did you choose to race this particular model Alfa? Previously raced a 1974 2000 GTV 105 series but making it competitive as a race car meant it was getting too ‘hard-core’ to also drive on the road (and I don’t have room for a car trailer), so in 2007 I did a swap with my father for his 1983 GTV6. Dad now has the ‘105’ for Group N racing and I am using the GTV6 as a nice fast road car that will both comfortably accommodate wife and dogs for Sunday drives as well as be good fun on the race track.

Any planned vehicle changes/modifications for 2008? Will continue to refine the handling and would like better brakes…while racers are never satisfied, it is set up as a pretty good package already – thanks to its previous owner ;)

Alfacomp goals for 2008: Will do the Super Sprint Series at Morgan Park and hope to also try to get out to QR for a couple of Saturday sprints and maybe a regularity or two here and there.

Any advice for Alfisti considering entering the ALFACOMP? (1) Best tip would be to spend some money on making yourself faster (read: safer) before trying to make the car faster. Do some driver training, either through the club or through any other means you can – best investment possible. 92) Don’t be put off by the need for a dedicated race car. Most people start in a road car with not much more than a fire extinguisher bolted in (Some people even revert from a dedicated race car to a road car!). As long as it is in good condition, any Alfa will make for an entertaining racer. (3) Get out there and give it a go!

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