So Near for Parker
Posted 30/07/04

Shane Parker put in a sterling performance at Armadale in the Scottish Open but when it mattered fellow Aussie Rory Schlein upped the pace to claim the title.

Shane had looked good all through the evening and with four firsts and a second he went straight through to the final along with eventual winner Schlein.

They were to be joined by former winner David Howe and the surprise package Theo Pijper who had a very impressive night.

Although Shane gated well he took it too wide on the second bend and Schlein and Howe were not slow to take advantage. Schlein then pulled away to win deservedly and by quite an impressive margin.

Glasgows other representative, George Stancl, also had a decent night but was to go out in the semi-final.

After a slow start to the meeting, he exploded to life and was the victim of a dodgy refereeing decision in heat 14 when he looked to have won but the race was awarded to Pijper. He did enough to qualify for the semi final and was to be the loser in a good race between the front three for the two remaining final places.

George's form on the night was impressive though and he was passing comfortably.