Italy Owns the Italian Grand Prix!
This July’s Italian Grand Prix was sparsely attended (only three players), but the competition was fierce. Ray G. and Ray R. managed two teams apiece. Six drivers sat on the grid with Watson on the Pole for team Penski. Watson shared the front grid with Lauda (Ferrari) and Depailler (Elf/Tyrrell). BRM’s Ashely, Ferrari’s Regazzoni, and RAM’s Lombardi filled out the back row.
By the time the racers had reached the Curva Grande, Lauda was in the lead and did conceed that position for the remainder of the race. Depailler spun out the six-wheeled Elf and was not a contender after that. Watson ride lacked the top speed necessary to catch Lauda.
Lauda obtained the first lap bonus point and never looked back. While Lauda position was not seriously challenged, an epic battle for second took place between Watson, Regazzoni, and Ashley for the remainder of the race.
The three contenders for second place swapped positions several times and often battle three-wide down the straights. All cars finished without wear points. Lauda won the race with a large margin. Regazzoni one a very close second with Watson and Ashely right behind him.
Race details follow:
1st Den H. (N. Lauda) 60/40/40/160/5 N**
2nd Den H. (C. Regazzoni) 40/40/40/160/5 N
3rd Ray G. (J. Watson) 60/40/40/140/6 S
4th Ray R. (I. Ashley) 40/40/60/160/5 S
5th Ray R. (L. Lombardi) 40/20/60/160/5
6th Ray G. (P. Depailler) 6040/40/140/5