Events > Finke 2005

The Fabled Finke Desert Race 2005

Although there were plenty of rumblings about the possibility of an Evolution class in the 2005 Finke Desert Race, in the end it didn't happen. Even so, there were plenty of vintage riders in the event. Photographer extraordinaire, Tony T, was on hand with the mighty SP370 to record the 30th running of this classic race. Here's his report and more of his superb photography.

The 30th edition of the Finke Desert Race has been run and won and our OzVMZ heroes, Shane Kraft (TT500) and Lex Holcombe (CR500) both did well getting home somewhere around mid-field out of 433 starters.

Overall winner in the bikes was Darwin 'copper' Jason Hill, who thanks to overnight rain settling the dust, was able to get past both locals Ben Brooks and Gavin Chapman in the last 60 kilometres of the race.

Unfortunately, Shane's TT was the only Evo bike in the event and even though the course was very rough, he still managed a very good result against competitors who weren't even born when the TT was made! He commented on the 'double-takes' a lot of guys did when he cruised by them, particularly through the big whoops at the Finke end of the course on the way home.

Quite a few Finke legends from years ago had a ride again, albeit on modern bikes, with the most successful being Jimmy Ellis who won his class for riders over 45 years and came in 30th outright! 3 time Finke winner, Phil Lovett, came second in the same class and 47th outright.
Other past winners competing included Peter Stayt, Geoff Curtis and of cousre Stephen Greenfield in his 20th Finke.

8 sidecars also started the event and all made it there and back with Dave Manual and Tony Tsharke taking top honours.

One sad note was the death of Greg Lincoln during the prologue in what appeared to be a not too serious crash. Greg, 54 from Trafalgar in Victoria, was to compete alongside his son Bradd. The race went on with his family's blessings and was dedicated to his memory.
Full results are available at www.finkedesertrace.com.au

Anyone who'd like a print or two can contact Tony at

Barossa Photo Company
P.O. Box 691
Tanunda S.A. 5352
Ph: (08) 85631363

Email: barossaphoto@internode.on.net