The Otway Trial was held on March 27.
VCS Round 2 – 1976 WDCC Otway Trial
A fast run over Pinch Gut Hill, followed by Stoney Falls Track, and Benwerrin Track to Mt Sabine, had three crews were still clean: Chris Power / Ian Heraud, Peter Guthrie / Tony Bond, and Ron Neilson / Greg Hockem .
The second Division featured serious competition and quick times down into the Aire Valley Plantation. A large logging crane had partially blocked Satin Box Road, causing the deletion of this section.
At this stage Guthrie, Corkran and Phillips were battling for the lead, covered by just a single point.
After a transport through Gellibrand, a competitive run alongside the pipeline towards Barongarook caused problems. A dusty left-hand corner just before the control claimed a few hits, including event leader Peter Guthrie, dropping him from contention.
The two leading cars were still equal on points loss, so the final runs to Forest, and the 34 kilometre run along Kangalong Track would determine the final placings. Phillips / Runnalls picked up a single point, and scored the win!
