Race report – 1925 Eifel-Rennen

A Thrilling Contest at the Nideggen Ring: Peltonen victorious in the 1925 Eifel-Rennen!

Nideggen, Western Germany – June, 1925 – Indeed, ladies and gentlemen, Nideggen’s roads, a veritable crucible of speed and daring, played host to another breathtaking round of the Golden Era Championship today. Under partly cloudy skies and a brisk wind from the west, the graveled circuit, with its challenging cobblestone sections and perilous barbed wire fences, promised a spectacle of vintage motor-racing as only the 1920s can provide.

Twenty-two determined drivers took to the grid for twenty demanding laps, a traditional standing start setting the stage for what commentator predicted could be “dramatic events” off the line. As the engines revved and the lights came up, Markus Peltonen, piloting the magnificent 1925 Delage 2LCV, unleashed a “flying start,” instantly out-accelerating Alex Henry and seizing an early, commanding lead. This new 1925 Delage, now boasting a supercharger and an additional 70 horsepower, is by far the fastest machine on the track, truly a “winning prospect”.

The early laps were fraught with peril, as drivers grappled with cold tires and the notorious slipperiness of the cobblestones, particularly on the steep downhill sections. The circuit, barely wide enough for two cars abreast, offered little margin for error, with solid trees and unyielding wooden railings ever-present dangers. Organiser’s wise counsel echoed in the ears of many: “It’s most important to finish the race,” as damage could quickly lead to bankruptcy in this championship’s unique budget system.

Markus Peltonen, a picture of consistency, steadily built a formidable lead, at one point gaining a full five seconds over Jessie Lamure on the opening lap. Meanwhile, Nurmi, also in the formidable 1925 Delage, blazed through the field, showcasing the advancements of the newer machinery by swiftly gaining positions, eventually seizing second place. Kuusela, too, in a 1925 Delage, joined the leading pack, moving into third.

However, the race was not without its trials and tribulations. The narrow confines and challenging profile of the Nideggen track presented significant cooling challenges for the high-powered motor-cars, often necessitating drivers to cool down their engines. We observed Lázaro pull over to the side, potentially grappling with an overheating issue. Likewise, Zan Darling made an early pit stop, perhaps to allow the engine a vital moment of respite.

The central drama of the contest unfolded among the chasing pack, notably between Uotila, Kuusela, and Hyytiäinen, all pushing their machines to the very limit. Hyytiäinen, despite suffering a random puncture and hitting a wall early in the race, which necessitated a critical pit stop for repairs, demonstrated astonishing pace. This unforeseen setback placed Hyytiäinen at a disadvantage, yet their strategic decision to pit early, coupled with exceptional driving, allowed them to reset and later achieve the fastest lap of the race, a blistering 5:34.9, proving even a conservative approach could yield remarkable results.

As the race progressed, the gravel surface took its toll on traction, and the unyielding cobblestones continued to challenge the most skilled hands. Lipi, in a 1925 Delage, was observed struggling with the car’s rear end, while Kai Syvertsen, a driver who has faced unfortunate incidents in prior rounds, masterfully maintained control after a near spin. Indeed, the challenge of studded tires on the slippery cobblestones was described by drivers as “living hell”.

In the dying stages of the contest, late-race misfortune struck Uotila, who, after a strong showing, was forced to retire on lap 18, due to a puncture and a blown engine, thus ending his promising bid for a podium finish. This heart-wrenching incident opened the door for Hyytiäinen, who had valiantly climbed through the field after their earlier pit stop, to secure third place.

Up front, the question on everyone’s lips was when, or if, Markus Peltonen and Nurmi would need to pit. Both drivers, seemingly teammates and piloting the dominant 1925 Delages, pressed on relentlessly. Their masterful driving and superior machinery allowed them to complete the entire twenty laps without a single pit stop, a testament to their car management and speed. As the final lap commenced, Nurmi closed in on Peltonen, the gap narrowing to a mere three seconds, creating a thrilling climax.

Ultimately, the zero-stop strategy paid handsome dividends! Markus Peltonen crossed the finish line first, securing a magnificent victory, followed closely by teammate Nurmi in second place. Hyytiäinen, after a truly impressive display of tenacity and skill, brought their Delage home in a well-deserved third, proving that even a mid-race setback could not deny them a place on the podium. Tolonen and Kuusela, who themselves engaged in a spirited battle for much of the race, finished fourth and fifth, respectively. It was also a pleasing sight to witness Kai Syvertsen complete the race, a notable achievement after their past misfortunes.

A truly captivating spectacle of speed, strategy, and sheer will! Our next thrilling encounter takes us to Spa in Belgium, where the challenge of dirt and 1920s motor-cars awaits once more. Until then, farewell from Nideggen!

Final results of Nideggen:

Race broadcast: