[Spits] John Macartney's Triumph TransAmerica drive

[george.r.parker at att.net]

I was very priviliged to welcome John to Virginia at Moss Motors' new facility just south of Richmond.  John and "Uncle Jack" arrived around 1:15, and while John coordinated some spares for the car, I coordinated lunch with the wife back home.  We got back up to our house around 4pm and, as noted on John's site, my wife had a terrific spread set up for us.  And my friend Matt had arrived w/ his Rolls (also noted on John's site).

I'd just like to add a few words about that Rolls.  As a die-hard sports car guy, I never thought I'd be interested in a car like that, but it's REALLY NEAT!  It has the V12 engine and one of only 3 (I believe) Hooper bodies (though there were about 715 Phantom III's built).  Matt has made huge strides in improving the car over the past few years.  While the body still wears the patina of its age, functionally, everything works.  The thermostatically controlled vanes in front of the radiator, the "intercom" between the rear seat and the driver's compartment, the "trafficators" in the B pillar, electric rear window shade, etc.....  As I said, it's a NEAT car!

In addition to "Uncle Jack" and the PIII, we had an early and a later TR-6, a TR-250 w/ surry top, and my Spitfire, which, alas, had to remain in the garage, as I was unable to get it running well enough for this drive.  So I drove the lone piece of Japanese "iron" - but the spirit was there!

To echo what Chip Krout wrote on John's website, everyone who is able really should take the time to meet up with John (and don't forget the contributions!).  We heard some interesting stories over lunch, but I'm sure there are MANY more!  If only there was the time....
--
George P. 
Ruther Glen, VA