WEATHER was the enemy of the day as unpredictable downpours cut the Herefordshire Grand Prix short.
Ledbury MCC's season-opening race was set to showcase grass track racing at Pencombe, near Bromyard, on Sunday (April 13), but the weather had other plans.
The proceedings began under clear skies, but by the afternoon, dark clouds rolled in, bringing a sudden downpour that affected track conditions dramatically.
Despite the club's efforts to repair the surface, the rain on the baked ground rendered it dangerously slippery.
Clerk of the Course Adrian Croft made the difficult decision to abandon the event after just entering its third leg.
Before the rain disrupted proceedings, the opening heats provided plenty of excitement.
Darryl Ritchings showcased his skills in the 500cc solo category, securing a commanding gate-to-flag victory.
Ritchings continued his impressive form, remaining unbeaten throughout the heats, with James Wright and Alfie Bowtell also claiming victories in the same class.
In the 250cc and 350cc categories, Graham Thomas and Jack Roberts each enjoyed multiple race wins, establishing themselves as frontrunners in their respective classes.
The GT140 category proved particularly competitive, with Mark Scopes, Ian Clark, and Wayne Broadhurst all finishing level on points at the top of the standings.
Meanwhile, John Priest and Graeme Brown led the Pre-75 solo riders.
Sidecar races also took to the track on the day.
In the 500cc class, the duo of Josh Goodwin and Scott Goodwin dominated, winning both of their completed races.
The 1,000cc class was equally thrilling, with five different crews taking race wins.
At the time of the abandonment, Tom Cossar and Ryan Wharton, and Paul Whitelam and Richard Webb, were leading the charge.
Ledbury MCC is set to return to Pencombe on Sunday (August 3), for the ACU British International Masters, a highlight of the grasstrack racing calendar.
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