For the International Classic Races I decided to take my Canon 40D DSLR with Tamron 18-200 mm F/3.5-6.3 XR Di-II LD lens ideal for both on track action and paddock shots. I bought this lens with my Canon 20D many years ago on recommendation and was instantly disappointed. Images often had a “muddy” look, weren’t as sharp as they should be and the auto focus was unreliable. Consequently I rarely used it. However I’ve recently been using it on the 40D and to my surprise it’s a completely different lens on this body and autofocus is much better! Obviously it’s not as sharp as my favourite Canon 70-200mm L but it’s perfectly acceptable and overall, gives good results.
Anyway, this was one of the most enjoyable events I’ve been to for a long time. Besides the track action there was a display area in the paddock with variety of club displays, collections and a stage. So much was going on it was difficult to get around without being distracted. A programme was a must and even this impressed – nice design, a good read and well worth a fiver.
All in all a great success, rare and exotic bikes with past and present stars seemingly around every corner. Jonathon Palmer should be rightly proud of the Classic International races that he and the staff have organised. Pity I couldn’t attend both days.