Goodwood 80th Members Meeting Test Day
Matching the spring weather, motorsport is just coming out of hibernation with the first races of the season happening now. Down in sleepy Sussex the Goodwood Motor Circuit is no exception with the 80th Members Meeting less than two weeks away.
In preparation for the event teams had the opportunity for a midweek test day to get cars dusted off, dialled in and refresh their drivers memory of the track. Days like this are normally closed to anyone not competing but fortunately today had been opened up to members to head in and spectate.
The paddock was alive with the sound of tools, chatter and the chop of big capacity engines warming up.
It was a mix of attendees, ranging from pre-war cars with totally exposed running gear and rocker covers, through to GT40’s and 80’s touring cars.
Pacing round the paddock you’re hit by how complicated and unique each car is and when compared to modern race cars. While they all lack the electrical management systems there is definitely an art to tuning carburettors, setting clearances and in some cases even just getting them mechanically put together.
One of the most eye catching cars of the day was the Aston Martin Ulster.
First introduced to racing in 1934 it was destined for endurance racing. With a grand total of around 80 horsepower being pumped out by the 1.5 litre four cylinder engine you’d be reaching eyewatering speeds of 100mph or more.
The Ulster went on to win the 1934 and 1935 RAC Tourist Trophy.
Capturing the drivers prepping for heading out on track, briefing with the teams, mechanics and marshals added a different dynamic.
The atmosphere between the drivers seemed great too, with them all laughing and chatting as they waited for their time on track.
Each test slot was around 15 minutes long with up to seven cars out at anyone time, and it’s probably the only time you’ll see a GT40, Lotus Cortina and a pre-war MG all going into Woodcote at the same time.
With the access around he circuit being more open than at events there were some amazing vantage points.
Our two wheeled counterparts are not normally an area of interest, but with some of these historic bikes it’s certainly more enticing.
Amazing to see the riders making full use of the whole tyre showing how low they’ve been cornering while out on their test laps.
Getting up close as ignited a bit more interest in bikes which will be great to explore.
Soaking up the smell and sound of historic race cars was a phenomenal way to spend a day midweek. Getting some new views of racing, what goes into the few laps that anyone sees and the dynamic of building a competitive team was great.
Thank you to Goodwood Road & Racing Club for organising and give us the opportunity to attend.
Check out more photos below.
Images and words by Mitcham Media
