Classic cars forum & vehicle restoration.
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Rick Site Admin
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Joined: 27 Apr 2005 Posts: 22449 Location: UK
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Posted: Wed Nov 21, 2018 1:13 pm Post subject: Silverstone Classic 2019 PR |
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THREE, TWO, ONE: THE WINNING FORMULA AT THE CLASSIC!
- Special single-seater showcase at next summer’s festival
- Formula 2 retro races make their festival debut
- Classic Formula 3 returns to join F1 and F2 on the 2019 bill
- Super Early Bird tickets on sale until 31 December
For the first time in its glorious 29 year history, next summer’s Silverstone Classic will feature dedicated retro races for Formula 1, Formula 2 and Formula 3 thus creating the festival’s first ever international single-seater showcase.
The Classic’s unrivalled race-card has always dished up crowd-pleasing Formula 1 showdowns featuring the great Grand Prix cars from much-loved past eras and in 2019, the firm favourites of FIA Masters Historic Formula One and the HGPCA (Historic Grand Prix Cars Association) will return. Never before, though, has the packed programme included dedicated races for Formula 2 cars, while the ever-evocative Classic Formula 3 series returns for the first time since 2014.
Ensuring all the 100,000+ show-goers can savour the notable occasion, the milestone F1, F2 and F3 action will be spread across all three days with qualifying on Friday and then back-to-back races on Saturday and Sunday.
Starring a host of iconic cars as raced in period by the likes of Jochen Rindt, Ronnie Peterson, Jody Scheckter, Graham Hill and Sir Jackie Stewart, the flourishing Historic Formula 2 International Series is open to cars built between 1967 and the end of the 1978 season.
It was a magical era when F2 was the absolute proving ground for young drivers intent on making the step into Grand Prix racing, and when it was not unusual for F1 stars to step back into F2 on their free weekends. Chassis rivalry was just as fierce, with Matra and Martini from France and Tecno from Italy against March, Brabham, Lotus and Chevron from Great Britain.
Offering fast and reasonably accessible racing, the Historic 2 Series – organised by the Historic Sports Car Club (HSCC) – is enjoying a huge revival regularly attracting grids of close to 30 cars. Now with more chassis’ being prepared and a double-header date at the Classic in prospect, the HSCC is aiming for up to 40 cars – a target, if achieved, that would be the biggest-ever Formula 2 grid.
Joining F2, and making a welcome return to the Classic, the HSCC-managed Classic F3 Championship is also targeting a massive 40 car field with competitors from the popular French Formula 3 invited too.
Entries will cover Formula 3 cars originally built and raced between 1971 and 1984 thus covering two eras with earlier 1600cc twin-cam cars joined by the later 2-litre cars that were introduced in 1974. Furthering the interest and spectacle, grids are expected to include genuine period cars as raced by drivers like Martin Brundle, Derek Warwick and Nelson Piquet on their respective ways to the top.
“Every summer we aim to enhance the established crowd-favourites with some outstanding new additions and to have Historic Formula 2 and Classic Formula 3 on the 2019 race-card for the very first time will make next year’s festival really special,” enthused Nick Wigley, Silverstone Classic CEO.
“As everyone knows, such is the immense scale of the Classic that it also has a great history of breaking records and setting new standards, so the prospect of not only the Classic's first-ever Formula 2 grid but also quite possibly the biggest field of Formula 2 cars ever seen anywhere on the planet further fuels excitement.”
Grahame White, CEO of the HSCC is equally delighted. He said: “The chance to race at the Silverstone Classic is very special and I’m delighted that our Formula 2 and Formula 3 grids will get this opportunity next summer. I think we will be able to deliver bumper grids and tremendous racing, showcasing these categories to a huge audience.”
The special F1, F2 and F3 single-seater celebration joins those grids already confirmed for next summer’s Classic, these include the prestigious Royal Automobile Club Tourist Trophy for Pre ’63 GT Cars, the Transatlantic Trophy for Pre '66 Touring Cars, FIA Masters Historic Sportscars and the new Masters Endurance Legends. News of further exciting races will follow in the New Year.
Those buying tickets in the meantime, can take advantage of the Super Early Bird offer open until 31 December – a bonus for those seeking a special Christmas present. These offer savings of up to 22 per cent on Standard tickets.
Once again all tickets – which must be purchased in advance – will give access to both Classic racing paddocks, all open trackside grandstands, the live music concerts, air shows, fun fair rides and the vast majority of the epic family entertainment running alongside the non-stop on-track thrills.
Adult admission starts at just £35 with the price of the three-day weekend ticket frozen at £99. Full details of all ticket prices – including Parc Fermé and Clubhouse hospitality packages, the RetroRun experience and camping – can be found on the silverstoneclassic.com website. _________________ Rick - Admin
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Rick Site Admin
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Joined: 27 Apr 2005 Posts: 22449 Location: UK
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Posted: Fri Dec 07, 2018 5:01 pm Post subject: |
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CLASSIC DATE FOR 2019 SET IN SILVERSTONE!
• Next summer’s Silverstone Classic confirmed for 26-28 July
• Packed retro race programme features cream of international historic racing action
• Feast of off-track activities and entertainment for families of all ages
• Super Early Bird tickets still available … but only until the end of this month
Next summer’s Silverstone Classic is now confirmed for the weekend of 26-28 July.
The date had already been announced but remained ‘provisional’ until Formula One’s governing body, the FIA, formally ratified its 2019 calendar at yesterday’s meeting of its World Motor Sport Council in St Petersburg.
With the British Grand Prix at Silverstone now rubber stamped for Sunday 14 July, the Silverstone Classic can officially take its traditional place in the calendar a fortnight after Formula One headlines at the home of British motor racing.
Coming at the start of the summer holidays, the hugely-popular three-day Classic is expecting another 100,000+ crowd, plus a star-studded line-up of drivers. What’s more, though tickets have been on sale since October, festival-goers who were waiting for a verified date can still take advantage of the Super Early Bird offer available until the end of December.
These Super Early Bird tickets offer significant savings of up to 22 per cent on standard tickets and adult admission currently starts at just £35 with the price of the three-day weekend ticket frozen at £99. Full details of all ticket prices – including Parc Fermé and Clubhouse hospitality packages, the RetroRun experience and camping – can be found on the silverstoneclassic.com website.
With the date for the dazzling three-day car-themed extravaganza now set in stone, full details of the on- and off-track family entertainment will be announced in the coming months – these include the full roster of spectacular races, record-breaking car club anniversaries plus news of a very special ‘rocking and racing’ live music celebration planned to span both Friday and Saturday evenings.
While the rocking and racing Silverstone Classic is renowned for its live music concerts as well as serving up an incredible array of great fun-fuelled activities, attractions and amusements for all ages, the stellar cars are always the glittering stars. The Classic sets the international gold standard when it comes to showcasing the cream of global retro racing action with more than 1,000 entries dating back to the glorious heydays of Formula One, GT, Touring and Sports cars.
Many of the regular crowd-pleasing 50+ car grids have already been confirmed along with a remarkable new single-seater celebration as historic Formula One, Formula Two and Formula Three races all feature on the same packed programme for the very first time at the Classic.
Other grids to have been announced include the HGPCA (Historic Grand Prix Cars Association) for Pre-1966 Grand Prix Cars, the Royal Automobile Club Tourist Trophy for Historic Cars (pre-63 GT), Masters Endurance Legends, the Yokohama Trophy for FIA Masters Historic Sportscars plus the Transatlantic Touring Car Trophy. More stand-out races will be revealed soon, too!
In the meantime – and whetting appetites for next July – highlights of this year’s record-breaking Classic will be screened three times over Christmas on ITV4 at 06:00 on 24 December, 03:25 on 26 December and 06:10 on 29 December.
All the latest information on the 2019 Silverstone Classic is available on the event’s website and via its social media platforms. _________________ Rick - Admin
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Rick Site Admin
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Joined: 27 Apr 2005 Posts: 22449 Location: UK
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Posted: Wed Jan 02, 2019 5:59 pm Post subject: |
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NEW YEAR HONOURS AT THE 2019 CLASSIC.
• Notable automotive anniversaries to be celebrated in July
• Parades to mark Bentley’s centenary and 60 years of the evergreen Mini
• Other marque milestones for Abarth, BMW Z1, Ford Capri, Marcos and Mazda MX-5
• Special Early Bird package for car club members to join the show
The arrival of every new year heralds a raft of exciting anniversaries and, in the car world, 2019 is crammed full of major motoring milestones – the cream of which will be celebrated at this summer’s Silverstone Classic (26-28 July).
As tradition now dictates, the annual Classic is the event that honours automotive history like no other, with a mouth-watering feast of dedicated retro races, massive eye-catching car club displays and glittering on-track parades that have been saluted with multiple Guinness World Records.
In recent years, the famous Silverstone Grand Prix circuit has staged record-breaking processions featuring evocative E-type Jaguars, fabulous Ferrari F40s, evergreen Porsche 911s, muscular Ford Mustangs, sensational Jaguar XJ220 supercars and never-before-seen numbers of stunning McLarens – as well as a whole host of other glittering parades.
Even by these sky-high standards, though, 2019 is revving up to be a very, very special year at the Classic.
Plans for a number of bedazzling birthday races and other anniversary celebrations will be announced over the next few weeks. In the meantime, though, more than 110 car clubs have already registered to display at the 2019 Classic and many of these will be honouring significant marque and model landmarks in July.
The Bentley Drivers Club will be out in force, celebrating the centenary of the prestigious luxury brand founded in 1919 by the legendary W.O. Bentley in Cricklewood, north London. Abarth is another time-honoured company boasting both distinguished road and racing car pedigrees – its 70thbirthday will be marked in style at the Classic by the Abarth Owners Club.
Marcos and Mini clubs will be hosting Diamond Jubilee birthday parties as their cherished icons hit 60 in 2019, while gold is the colour for both the Ford Capri and Triumph TR6 – two endearing sixties sportscars born exactly 50 years before next summer’s Classic,and still with passionate followings today.
Although from a slightly more modern era, the BMW Z1 and Mazda MX-5 are two models not only much-loved by enthusiasts but also with strong regular presences at the Classic – more so this year as both evocative two-seater idols will be turning 30 in 2019.
“Whether it’s on or off the track, the Classic is one of the world’s biggest celebrations of motoring history, with more than 10,000 magical cars from yesteryear on show over three jam-packed days,” enthused Nick Wigley, Silverstone Classic CEO.“But while the unrivalled numbers are impressive, it’s the special automotive anniversaries that always add extra sparkle each year… and in 2019 we have some real jewels to celebrate. The cars are the stars at the Classic!”
Whether or not popping corks, ever-growing numbers of car clubs now choose to stage their main annual gathering at the world’s biggest classic motor racing festival, with their passionate members taking advantage of an exclusive display package and taking centre stage at the heart of the event. Further details on the clubs registered to date and information on the process for car clubs wishing to apply for registration, are available at: www.silverstoneclassic.com/clubs
All admission tickets also grant access to a selection of trackside grandstands, live music concerts on Friday and Saturday evenings, both racing paddocks plus the vast majority of the fun-fuelled family entertainment on offer at the ‘rocking and racing’ Classic.
Full details of car club packages, general admission tickets, hospitality packages and camping options can be found on the silverstoneclassic.com website with Early Bird tickets (available until the end of March) offering significant savings on standard tickets. _________________ Rick - Admin
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Rick Site Admin
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Posted: Wed Jan 09, 2019 2:38 pm Post subject: |
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SPECIAL RACES TO MARK MAGICAL MINI MILESTONE
• British icon’s Diamond Jubilee celebrated in record style
• The world’s biggest-ever grid of racing Minis at the 2019 Classic
• Spectacular 60thanniversary double-header added to Saturday and Sunday bill
• Money saving Early Bird tickets on sale
The 60th anniversary of the extraordinary Mini Minor will be celebrated with two record breaking races at this summer’s Silverstone Classic (26-28 July).
To mark this magical milestone in true Classic style, the packed on-track programme will – for the first time ever – feature a pair of very special showdowns dedicated entirely to huge numbers of much-loved Mini racers competing for The Mini Celebration Trophy presented by Adrian Flux.
The automotive icon’s enduring popularity with historic motor sport competitors is certain to create the world’s biggest-ever grid of racing Minis and, fittingly, another major crowd-pleasing highlight at this year’s running of the biggest retro-racing festival on the planet.
Ensuring everyone shares in the celebrations, the unmissable Mini double-header action will star on all three days at the Classic with qualifying on Friday and spectacular 20-minute showdowns on both Saturday and Sunday.
First launched in 1959, the ground-breaking Mini not only revolutionised small car design forever but also became a classless British style icon in the Swinging Sixties – an image that is still fostered today by BMW’s on-going homages to the innovative original which was designed for the British Motor Corporation (BMC) by the ingenious Sir Alec Issigonis.
As well as becoming one of the most influential cars in automotive history, the trail-blazer also earned its spurs in competition. Maximising its nimble front-wheel-drive layout, higher performance versions quickly added to the Mini’s spiralling kudos.
Three famous Monte Carlo Rally wins plus numerous giant-killing successes on the race track – many at Silverstone – boosted the little car’s incredible credentials and further fuelled the perennial favourite’s legendary status.
“Absolutely everybody who loves cars loves the Mini, so we are really thrilled to be celebrating this major milestone in its illustrious history with two fabulous races at the Classic, where the stars are always the cars!” enthused Nick Wigley, Silverstone Classic CEO – a long-term fan of the charismatic BMC baby having learnt to drive and passed his driving test in a little red Mini.
“With so many evocative examples in existence, we are expecting to create what will be the world’s biggest-ever field of racing Minis… and, in doing so, make yet more history for both the magical Mini and the Classic.”
This summer’s duo of Diamond Jubilee duels are being organised by Masters Historic Racing and will feature competition cars dating back to the pioneering Mini’s original pre-1966 era.
“We are delighted that Masters has been asked to organise these Mini-only celebration races at the Silverstone Classic in July,” said Ron Maydon, Founder and President of Masters Historic Racing. “Minis are very close to my own heart and, in their 60th anniversary year, it only seems right that we should be showcasing a spectacular grid of infamous FIA-spec pre-66 Minis at such a great British historic racing festival.”
Furthering the festivities at the annual Classic, a raft of evergreen Minis will also feature in special track parades and in dedicated in-field displays organised by members of prominent motor clubs representing all generations of the revered marque through the ages.
Visitors keen to join in the festivities at the festival must buy their tickets in advance and can take advantage of the Early Bird offer on tickets when purchasing before the end of March.
As in previous years, all tickets grant access to trackside grandstands, live music concerts on Friday and Saturday evenings, both racing paddocks, plus the vast majority of the fun-fuelled family entertainment on offer at the ‘rocking and racing’ Classic. _________________ Rick - Admin
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Rick Site Admin
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Posted: Thu Jan 17, 2019 4:04 pm Post subject: |
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Coincidentally, mention of the Bentley 100th anniversary made it into the 2019 anniversaries thread the other day.
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RECORD GRID OF BENTLEY RACERS TO CELEBRATE CENTENARY
• Special race to mark British brand’s milestone 100thbirthday
• Never-before-seen numbers of pre-war competition Bentleys
• Anniversary track parade for Bentley car and enthusiast clubs
• Money-saving Early Bird tickets on sale
This summer’s Silverstone Classic will celebrate Bentley’s 100thbirthday with a very special anniversary race dedicated to honouring the illustrious British marque’s most significant historical milestone.
To be staged on Saturday evening at the world’s biggest classic motor racing festival, the Bentley Centenary Trophy for Pre-War Sports Cars comes almost exactly 100 years after the legendary W.O. Bentley founded the company that carries his name on 10 July, 1919.
To mark the momentous occasion, it is hoped that a record turn-out of more than 30 iconic racing Bentleys will line up, as in period, in a hugely evocative field also packed with pre-war Alfa Romeos, Aston Martins, Bugattis, Fraser Nashes, Lagondas and MGs all dating back to the 1920s and 1930s.
It was in competition that the hallowed brand first earned its reputation, winning the coveted Le Mans 24 Hours no fewer than five times in seven years between 1924 and 1930, topped by an all-conquering 1-2-3 podium clean sweep precisely 90 years ago in 1929.
Furthering the appeal, the notoriously rugged cars – then hailing from Cricklewood in north London and once described by competitive rival Ettore Bugatti as ‘the fastest lorries in the world’ – were raced by an alluring group of wealthy British drivers nicknamed the ‘Bentley Boys’.
Illustrious examplesof the 3-litre, 4.5-litre Blower and Speed Six models, helmed with such success in France, will be among the record numbers lining up at the Classic.
“Those glorious tales of the big green Bentleys thundering through the French night are part of motor sport legend passed down through the generations,” lauded Nick Wigley, Silverstone Classic CEO. “Now we will be recreating some of that magic at sunset on Saturday at the Classic to celebrate what is a very special moment in Bentley’s remarkable lifetime.”
The Bentley Centenary Trophy for Pre-War Sports Cars is being organised by Motor Racing Legends, whose Chairman, Duncan Wiltshire, anticipates a record-breaking grid.
“This is such a significant anniversary – a once-in-a-lifetime celebration which is certain to appeal to all those with eligible Bentleys.
“As a result, we are expecting an enormous turn-out and, by all probability, the biggest grid of racing Bentleys ever seen anywhere in the world,” predicted Wiltshire, whose Motor Racing Legends team will also be fielding the well-established Royal Automobile Club Woodcote Trophy and Stirling Moss Trophy sportscar racing grids at the Classic, featuring cars largely from the 1950s era, including Jaguar D-types, Lister Knobblies and Cooper Monacos.
Adding to the unmissable Bentley centenary celebrations, a special track parade for car clubs representing the distinguished luxury brand is also scheduled for Saturday at the Classic. Once again, huge numbers are expected to join the historic 100thbirthday party.
Visitors keen to experience the festivities must buy their tickets in advance and can take advantage of an Early Bird offer when purchasing before the end of March. _________________ Rick - Admin
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Rick Site Admin
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Posted: Fri Jan 25, 2019 8:21 pm Post subject: |
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SPICING UP 50 YEARS OF THE FORD CAPRI.
• Celebrating golden anniversary of Ford’s famous fastback coupé
• Special trophy to be presented by racing legend Gordon Spice
• Historic Touring Car Challenge returns with Sierra Cosworth RS500s
• Money-saving Early Bird tickets on sale
The world’s most successful Capri racer will lead the celebrations honouring the Ford fastback’s golden anniversary at this summer’s Silverstone Classic (26-28 July).
For five seasons in succession between 1976 and 1980, Gordon Spice took top class honours in the British Saloon Car Championship, taking the Mustang-inspired coupé to no fewer than 24 outright race victories (photo below bottom).
With the Capri turning 50 this year, the tin-top racing legend will present a special trophy to the top-performing Capri in the crowd-pleasing Historic Touring Car Challenge (HTCC) race at the Classic.
“The Capri was very important to me,” reflected Spice, who further proved his talent by lifting the Group C2 World Endurance Championship crown when racing a sports prototype produced and entered by his own Spice Engineering company.
“The Capri was by far the easiest car I ever raced. There was absolutely nothing complicated about it – the rear-drive chassis was simple to tune, so it handled really, really well. Just a brilliant motor car.”
First unveiled at the Brussels Motor Show in January 1969 and marketed by Ford as ‘The Car You Always Promised Yourself’, close to two million Capris were produced before the model’s demise at the end of 1986.
As well as finding huge favour in the showrooms, Capris were popular in motor sport – notably in Britain where they totally ruled the country’s premier touring car series after the bigger-engined American muscle cars were banned at the end of the 1975 season.
Despite facing fierce competition – mostly from rival three-litre Capris – Spice was very much the man to beat for the following five years, right up to the moment a subsequent rule change permitted the introduction of the larger-engined Rover Vitesses, thus ending the Ford’s domination.
Today’s flourishing HTCC features large numbers of Capris – including some actually raced by Spice in period – Rovers and other iconic saloon cars from that much-loved era, many adding to the memories by still competing in evocative period liveries.
Providing further spectacle, for the first time this year’s grid at the Classic will also permit official entries from a number of later-generation, flame-spitting Ford Cosworth RS500s.
In the past, the high-performance Sierras have raced regularly with the Super Touring field. However, due to diminishing number of cars competing in this grid and an already packed track schedule, the super tourers will be taking a break from the Classic this year.
Appropriately, though, the coveted one-off Gordon Spice Trophy will be presented by Spice to the first Capri past the finishing post.
“I’m absolutely delighted to have been given this honour,” said Spice, now aged 78. “I never miss the Classic; it’s one of my favourite race meetings of the year and it is always wonderful to see so many Capris still racing today – 50 years is a long time!”
To mark the occasion, organisers have also confirmed that they will be holding a celebratory anniversary parade for the Ford Capri on the Sunday of the event for those car club members joining in the festivities with their Ford Capris. This will be fronted by the last Capri to roll off the production line in Cologne – a limited edition 280 ‘Brooklands’ model owned by Ford’s heritage workshop. _________________ Rick - Admin
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Rick Site Admin
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Posted: Thu Feb 07, 2019 8:33 pm Post subject: |
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ASTON MARTIN PARTNERSHIP FUELS BIGGEST EVER CLASSIC.
• New Aston Martin Heritage Racing (AMHR) Festival Series race completes unrivalled retro racing bill
• Luxury automotive group to supply official Safety and Course Cars
• Opportunity for festival-goers to test drive latest Aston Martins
• Most complete race programme ever spanning ten decades
• Early Bird tickets on sale offering significant savings
The 2019 Silverstone Classic is delighted to announce a far-reaching three-year official partnership with Aston Martin – a collaboration with the world famous luxury automotive group which embraces both on- and off-track activities at the world’s biggest historic motor racing festival.
Completing a record breaking feast of retro racing, this summer’s Classic (26-28 July) has the honour of hosting the very first round of Aston Martin’s newly announced Aston Martin Heritage Racing Festival Series.
Aston Martin recently opened a new state-of-the-art, high performance test and development base at Silverstone and it presence at the Classic will be furthered by the supply of the official Safety and Course Cars for each grid. As last year, these will help to ensure the smooth running of the non-stop nostalgic track action throughout the packed weekend.
There will also be the opportunity for festival-goers to test drive the latest Aston Martin models in Drive Live. Successfully launched last summer, Drive Live enables visitors to the Classic to experience a selection of models from participating manufacturers on the local roads.
Confirmation of the new Aston Martin Heritage Racing Festival Series is the final addition to a record-breaking21-race programme covering a full ten decades of glorious motor sport history ranging from the iconic green Bentleys of the 1920s right up to these timeless Aston Martins that were competing at Le Mans and the Nürburgring as recently as last year.
Open to all non-current Aston Martin GT class race cars – notably stunning DBR9s and Vantage GT2/GT3/GT4/N24/GTE models as well as some even more exotic specials such as the mighty Aston Martin Vulcan – the eagerly anticipated Aston Martin Heritage Racing Festival Series further broadens the Classic’s unrivalled race-card.
This year, for the very first time, the unparalleled on-track line-up stars spectacular showdowns for historic Formula 1, Formula 2 and Formula 3 single-seaters plus a pair of special Mini races to mark the little legend’s 60thbirthday. Bentley’s centenary and the 50thanniversary of the Ford Capri are also being honoured in terrific sporting style on track.
“Nowhere else on Earth will you see such a wide array of wonderful motor sport history still racing flat out today,” enthused Nick Wigley, Silverstone Classic CEO. “We are immensely proud that Aston Martin not only has chosen to become a major event partner but also to launch its amazing new Aston Martin Heritage Racing Festival Series at the Classic. Everyone loves Aston Martin and, with its wide-ranging presence throughout the event, this year’s festival will be all the more special for all-comers.” _________________ Rick - Admin
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Rick Site Admin
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Posted: Thu Feb 07, 2019 8:42 pm Post subject: |
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CLASSIC MINIS TO PARTY AT SILVERSTONE
• Diamond jubilee festivities on- and off-track
• 60th birthday acclaimed with track parade and display showcase
• Special ‘Celebration Package’ open to owners of all pre-2001 Minis
Mini owners are being offered a fantastic opportunity to be part of the idolised little car’s unmissable 60th birthday party at this summer’s Silverstone Classic (26-28 July).
Plans to salute the diminutive icon’s diamond jubilee with the biggest-ever grid of racing Minis has already been announced – but now comes confirmation of an exclusive anniversary track parade and display, too.
Designed to be the launchpad for a wonderful weekend of birthday celebrations, the special Mini pageant has been added to Friday’s packed timetable at the Classic.
What’s more, to encourage all those with a classic Mini to join the festivities, a unique Mini Celebration Package has been introduced specifically for owners of original pre-2001 models.
This cost-saving offer provides owners with a pair of adult tickets (for Friday or the full three-day weekend), a vehicle pass giving access to the Mini Celebration display area, plus entry into the Mini Celebration parade taking place on the full Grand Prix circuit at lunchtime on Friday.
This one-off package has been introduced to enable Mini owners who may not be members of those car clubs already attending the world’s biggest historic motor racing festival, to share in the extensive 60th birthday revelries.
“This is a big birthday for everybody’s favourite little car and we want to encourage all those lucky enough to own a charismatic original Mini to be part of what promises to be a very special 60th birthday,” explained Nick Wigley, Silverstone Classic CEO.
Those wishing to join the party can select the Mini Celebration Package from the ticket options available on the official silverstoneclassic.com website. Numbers are limited so early booking is highly recommended.
As well as honouring the Mini in record-breaking style, this year’s Silverstone Classic is also marking Bentley’s centenary and 50 years of the Ford Capri. The track programme also features evocative retro races for prized Formula 1, Formula 2 and Formula 3 single-seaters for the very first time. _________________ Rick - Admin
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Rick Site Admin
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Posted: Thu Feb 28, 2019 2:19 pm Post subject: |
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CAPRI'S GOLD STANDARD AT THIS SUMMER'S SPARKLING CLASSIC
• Celebrating 50 years of Ford’s famous fastback
• Milestone golden jubilee festivities on- and off-track
• Owners encouraged to join birthday parades and displays
• Special ‘Celebration Package’ open for all those with Capris
Ford Capri owners are being offered a fabulous opportunity to be part of the much-loved fastback’s 50thbirthday party at this summer’s Silverstone Classic (26-28 July).
Launched at the Brussels Motor Show in January 1969, and marketed by Ford as ‘The Car You Always Promised Yourself’, close to two million Capris were produced before the model’s demise at the end of 1986.
A dazzling classic touring car race has already been announced to salute the stylish coupé’s golden jubilee, together with a special trophy presented by Gordon Spice, the world’s most successful Capri racer in period.
Now comes confirmation of an exclusive anniversary track parade and display – plus a special Capri Celebration Package – to encourage all owners to join in the festivities.
This attractively priced offer provides owners with a pair of adult tickets (for Sunday or the full three-day weekend) plus a special vehicle pass giving access to a dedicated Capri Celebration display area.
Also included is a place in the commemorative Capri Celebration track parade taking place on the full Grand Prix circuit at lunchtime on Sunday. This will be fronted by the final Capri to roll off the production line in Cologne (photo above and top below) – a limited edition 280 ‘Brooklands’ model owned by Ford’s heritage workshop.
This package has been introduced to enable owners who may not be members of those car clubs already attending the world’s biggest historic motor racing festival, to share in the extensive 50thbirthday revelries.
“Five years ago we paid tribute to the Ford Mustang when it turned 50, now we are honouring its equally-iconic European sibling, the Capri,” explained Nick Wigley, Silverstone Classic CEO.
“For many of us the Capri was always the affordable coupé, so it’s no surprise that they are becoming more and more treasured by classic car enthusiasts. We want to foster and fuel that passion by encouraging as many Capri fans as possible to share in the 50thbirthday celebrations at the Classic.”
Owners not wanting to miss the party can select the Capri Celebration Package from the ticket options available on the official silverstoneclassic.com website.
As well as honouring the Capri in style, this year’s Silverstone Classic is also marking Bentley’s centenary and 60 years of the evergreen Mini among its many other celebrations.
Furthermore, the packed 21-race track programme features evocative retro showdowns for prized Formula 1, Formula 2 and Formula 3 single-seaters for the very first time plus the inaugural round of the exciting new Aston Martin Heritage Racing Festival Series. _________________ Rick - Admin
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Posted: Tue Mar 19, 2019 8:59 pm Post subject: |
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IT'S ALWAYS TIME FOR A BREW AT THE CLASSIC!
Car Clinics return with ‘Wheeler Dealer’ TV star Mike Brewer
Selection of stand-out classic cars studied under the spotlight
Travelogue author Tim Moore to share his latest US adventure
Last chance to buy Early Bird tickets before end of March
Much-loved TV personality and well-respected motoring mastermind Mike Brewer will be back with his crowd-pleasing Car Clinics at the 2019 Silverstone Classic festival (26-28 July).
Since being introduced in 2014, Brewer’s informative and entertaining presentations have become one of the off-track highlights and a firm favourite with the tens of thousands of enthusiasts flocking to the world’s biggest classic motor racing festival.
Now the star of Discovery Channel’s globally-successful ‘Wheeler Dealers’ television programme returns for a sixth summer in succession casting his expert eye over an even more incredible line-up of notable classic cars – his popular Car Clinics coming in the breaks between the unrivalled roster of 21 outstanding retro races on both Saturday and Sunday.
Among the rare and iconic cars coming under Brewer’s scrutiny in July are significant historic models from Chevrolet, Daimler and Dodge plus, as part of Ford Capri’s 50thbirthday celebrations at the Classic, one of the final fastback models to have come off the production line.
Providing audiences with further enjoyment, Brewer will also be joined on stage by Tim Moore (photo row three), the well-known humourist and travel writer who has just journeyed through ‘Trumpland’ USA in a 1924 Model T Ford for his latest travelogue titled ‘Another Fine Mess’.
Critically acclaimed Moore has been hailed as ‘the world’s funniest travel writer’ by the Observer and will be sharing stories from his unforgettable road trip with his trademark blend of slapstick humour and affable insight.
“Whether in print or in person, Tim is a fabulous story teller and I can’t wait to hear all about his latest adventures,” enthused Brewer. “Like most of us with a passion for great cars, I just love the Silverstone Classic – it’s now one of best events on the planet and one of my highlights of the year. It’s always amazing to see so many incredible cars of all eras amassed in one place at the same time and, personally, it’s a real privilege for me to share what’s always an incredible weekend with so many like-minded enthusiasts.”
Brewer’s return is welcomed by festival organisers, too.
“Mike adds yet another wonderful dimension to the amazing array of entertainment on offer,” said Nick Wigley,Silverstone Classic CEO. “Like so many of those coming to the Classic, he has a tremendous passion for classic cars – all Mike needs is a stage, a microphone and some stimulating cars so that he can share his whole-hearted devotion with others. It’s a winning formula.”
Admission to Mike Brewer’s ever-popular Car Clinics is one of many attractions open to all those attending the Silverstone Classic at no extra cost.
Providing terrific value for money, all visitors also have access to both racing paddocks, trackside grandstands and live music concerts on Friday and Saturday evenings which this year will celebrate the golden anniversary of the era-defining Woodstock festival. The majority of the fun-fair rides as well as numerous dynamic demonstrations and fun-fuelled family activities and attractions based on the busy Village Green are included in the price of admission, too. _________________ Rick - Admin
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Posted: Wed Mar 27, 2019 12:22 pm Post subject: |
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LEGENDS TO RIDE AGAIN AT THE CLASSIC.
Star-studded World GP Bike Legends make welcome return
New for 2019, introduction of dedicated bike zone: MotoWorld
Ride Live to offer visitors the chance to test ride latest models
DirtQuake showcase already confirmed for Classic appearance
Last chance to buy Early Bird tickets saving up to 17 per cent!
The star-studded World GP Bike Legends will be back out in force at this summer’s Silverstone Classic (26-28 July), fronting an enlarged motorcycle showcase at the world’s biggest classic motor racing festival.
Featuring multiple world champions such as Wayne Gardner (AUS), Freddie Spencer (USA) and Raymond Roche (FRA), the presence of World GP Bike Legends has become a major draw at recent Classics and their welcome return for the fourth successive year is certain to be another massive crowd-pleaser. Even more so as World GP Bike Legends will be helping to power an awesome new bike zone, MotoWorld, putting a spotlight on the world of motorbikes with a commitment to the development of bike content through this exciting new joint initiative with the organisers of the Classic.
Visitors will once again be treated to the stunning spectacle of some of the most beautiful looking – and sounding – racing bikes blasting around the full Grand Circuit ridden by some of the sport’s top names from past epochs. What’s more, fans will be able to meet their heroes with autograph and photo sessions between the dramatic track demos.
“There’ll be the traditional warm biker welcome,” promised Gardner, whose improbable life story from a 5-dollar dirt bike to the 1987 500cc World Championship title has recently been made into a critically-acclaimed movie. “We always love to impress, inspire and entertain at great venues such as Silverstone – so it is wonderful to be back on the incredible Classic bill for a fourth year in a row.”
Furthering the Classic’s appeal to motorcycle fans, World GP Bike Legends will be based alongside a number of other notable two-wheeled attractions within the event’s all-new MotoWorld.
Located right at the heart of the huge festival, MotoWorld will also be home to an exciting new Ride Live feature where participating motorcycle manufacturers will be invited to offer visitors a not-to-be-missed opportunity to test ride their latest showroom models. Its introduction follows the successful launch of a similar Drive Live initiative for car manufacturers at last summer’s record-breaking Classic.
Also confirmed for the new bike zone is representation from DirtQuake, the flat-track motorbike festival taking place at Arlington Stadium near Eastbourne on 9-10 August.
“By popular demand we’ve seen the motorcycle element increasing year-by-year at the Classic – as a result we are now giving it a proper home within our ever-growing display areas,” explained Nick Wigley, Silverstone Classic CEO.
“The idea is for Ride Live to provide enthusiasts with a fabulous chance to experience some of their dream machines while the return of World GP Bike Legends will be a massively popular attraction. Many of these riders represent a golden era for the sport when the bikes were brutal and the ‘legends’ really were true heroes.”
Whether fans of two or four wheels, all those attending this summer’s Classic are guaranteed three days of unrivalled retro racing spectacle enhanced by fun-fuelled family entertainment.
This year’s action-packed 21-race track programme features special anniversary races for Bentleys, Capris and Minis plus evocative showdowns for classic era Formula 1, Formula 2 and Formula 3 single-seaters all together on the same race-card for the very first time.
As well as including unlimited access to both race paddocks plus trackside grandstands, tickets also provide admission to the majority of the funfair rides, infield attractions, interactive activities and amusements for all ages. Also included are the evocatively vibrant live music concerts on both Friday and Saturday evenings, this year honouring the 50thanniversary of the seminal Woodstock festival in 1969. _________________ Rick - Admin
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Posted: Mon Apr 15, 2019 2:48 pm Post subject: |
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BENTLEY, MINI AND CAPRI ICONS PREPARE FOR BIG BIRTHDAYS AT THIS SUMMER’S ‘GLASTONBURY OF MOTORSPORT’.
- Cars are the stars as Silverstone Classic prepares for sensational summer
- Racing legends regale media with stories of Mini and Capri heroics
- Modern-day ‘Bentley Boys’ Kristensen and Smith join the Preview party
- Paul Stewart speaks about motorsport’s role in the Race Against Dementia
- Early Bird ticket sales at record levels
Firmly established as the world’s biggest classic motor racing festival, the Silverstone Classic – founded in 1990 – continues to go from strength-to-strength, as evidenced by an illustrious turnout at the iconic British Grand Prix venue today. Whilst the cars are invariably the stars at the Classic – and today’s Preview was no exception – a number of honorary guests added to the appeal for attending media.
Marking the centenary of famous British brand Bentley in 2019, nine-time Le Mans 24 Hours winner Tom Kristensen and Guy Smith – one of his team-mates in the triumphant 2003 Team Bentley entry – were reunited, with the former additionally taking to the wheel of a vintage model for a future magazine article as he launched a new ‘Twilight Tribute to Le Mans’ feature for Saturday night at the Classic. Smith climbed into the cockpit of Bentley’s latest GT3 model for some special tracking photography.
Similarly in the spotlight was another famous British motoring success story – the beloved Mini, which is sixty years young in 2019. This summer’s event will welcome a record-breaking double-header grid, bringing together more than 50 pre-1966 Minis. In homage to the original ‘pocket rocket’, Mini rallying and racing hero Paddy Hopkirk – reunited with his 1964 Monte Carlo Rally-winning car – was joined at the Preview by fellow period Mini racers Gordon Spice, Steve Neal and John Rhodes.
Spice is perhaps better known for his British Saloon Car Championship exploits behind the wheel of the Ford Capri, which turns 50 this year. A trophy named after the most successful Capri racer in history will be awarded to the highest-finishing Capri driver in the Historic Touring Car Challenge race at the Classic.
Special photo-calls and interviews were hosted by famous television personality and racing driver Tiff Needell – who will front the ITV4 coverage for this summer’s Classic alongside Louise Goodman – with Paul Stewart a particularly welcome guest as he spoke about the appointment of Alzheimer’s Research UK (ARUK) as the event’s Official Charity Partner. This year’s Classic will raise funds for the Race Against Dementia Fellowships, an initiative founded by his father – three-time Formula 1 World Champion Sir Jackie Stewart – and administered through ARUK.
Sir Jackie’s 1971 title-winning Tyrrell-Ford 003 was one of the stand-out highlights on display today, while the man himself will attend this summer’s Classic, half a century on from his first World Championship triumph and British Grand Prix victory at Silverstone in 1969.
Silverstone Auctions chose the occasion to reveal its star lot going under the hammer in July – a Gullwing Mercedes once owned by Team Lotus Formula 1 team manager Peter Warr.
On the track, more than 150 cars offered a tantalising foretaste of some of the high-octane action to come at the end of July, while the new Aston Martin Heritage Racing Festival Series was out in force as it prepares to make its debut at this summer’s Classic. The HSCC Historic Formula 2 International Series is another newcomer to the Silverstone Classic bill, and was well-represented at the Preview. Many of the record number of car clubs celebrating landmark model and marque anniversaries were also present, including Abarth, the Austin Healey 3000, Middlebridge Scimitar and Triumph TR6.
All those wishing to attend this summer’s Silverstone Classic must purchase their tickets in advance, with adult admission starting at £45.
Once again, all tickets will provide access to both Silverstone racing paddocks, all open trackside grandstands, live music concerts which this summer mark the 50th anniversary of Woodstock on both Friday and Saturday evenings, air shows, Drive Live test-drives, funfair rides and the vast majority of the family entertainment on offer.
A wide range of child, young adult and family tickets are also available, along with camping and hospitality options. Full details of all 2019 ticket prices are detailed on the silverstoneclassic.com website.
Nick Wigley, CEO, Silverstone Classic:
“The cars are the stars at the Silverstone Classic and are always a significant draw, which is exactly why so many have been celebrated as part of our hugely successful Preview. There is of course so much to look forward to at the Classic this coming July – both on and off-track – and today’s events have further whetted the appetite. The outstanding off-track activities and attractions get bigger and better every year, whilst on-track we are set for some incredible wheel-to-wheel racing, as well as some memorable celebrations and anniversaries. It’s brilliant to see that Early Bird ticket sales have reached record numbers, as more and more people come to enjoy the full festival weekend that is the Silverstone Classic."
Tiff Needell, TV Presenter and Racing Driver:
“The Silverstone Classic is like the Glastonbury of motorsport. It’s a wonderful event. It’s not just about the racing on the track – there’s also a funfair, football skills by tyre partner Yokohama, all sorts of shops and stalls and great car clubs with huge displays. You can even go and look at the car you sat in the back of as a young kid! It’s just a huge festival with the added bonus of an auction where you can bid £1 million for a Mercedes or a few thousand quid for your old family saloon – so the saying ‘something for everyone’ is never more appropriate than at the Silverstone Classic.”
Tom Kristensen, Nine-Time Le Mans 24 Hours Winner:
“Silverstone is a great circuit and the perfect place to celebrate Bentley’s centenary. I wasn’t one of the original ‘Bentley Boys’ – I’m not quite old enough for that – but I really enjoyed being part of the team and I feel a little bit British when I put on this suit. As a race, Le Mans is so unpredictable, with tremendous history and heritage behind it, and competing there was a great period during my career. I remember receiving so much support from the British fans at Le Mans back in 2003 – that’s something I will cherish forever.”
Mike Sayer, Communications Manager UK, Bentley:
“2019 is a hugely important year for Bentley, celebrating 100 years of combining luxury and performance, and we have a very busy summer programme of events ahead as we look back over the past century and look forward to what comes next. The Silverstone Classic features prominently on that list, with a bigger Bentley presence this year than ever before. It promises to be a truly unique event, bringing together more pre-war Bentleys than have ever previously come together in a single race. It will be a tremendously evocative sight and sound.”
Guy Smith, 2003 Le Mans Winner for Bentley:
“Winning Le Mans was the absolute highlight of my career, without a doubt. It was an amazing feeling, and to do so in a British car and with a British team made it even more special. Everybody jokes about Le Mans being a British race that’s held in France, and the number of Bentley flags flying showed just how much support we had. Every time I get back behind the wheel of the Speed 8, it brings back so many wonderful memories, and by the same token, it was great to meet up again with Tom [Kristensen] today and swap stories. In terms of stature, having a Le Mans win on your CV is a major achievement, and it’s something that – as you get older – can never be taken away from you.”
Paddy Hopkirk MBE, 1964 Monte Carlo Rally Winner:
“The Mini was originally designed by Alec Issigonis primarily as a district nurses’ car – I don’t think anybody ever expected it was going to achieve the success that it has in competition. I think part of the reason that we did so well in Monte Carlo was that the roads were quite narrow after the snow ploughs had cleared them, and that was more of a challenge for the bigger, more powerful cars than it was for the light and nimble Mini. It wasn’t a natural rally car, but it quickly became one. Similarly in racing, the bigger-engined cars like the Fords used to blast past us on the straights and then we’d get them back in the twisty parts – that was particularly satisfying. It was real David vs. Goliath stuff, and people just fell in love with the little Mini.”
Steve Neal, Former British Saloon Car Championship Driver:
“When it first came out, the Mini was the characteristic King’s Road, Chelsea car – and it went on to become one of the most iconic and recognisable cars in touring car history. Back in my day, we used to drive our cars to the track, stick the numbers on the side and then go out and race them, and I’ve certainly turned a few Minis upside-down in my time – they did tend to fall over quite a bit. You could certainly use and abuse them...”
John Rhodes, Former Formula 1 and Mini Racing Legend:
“I spent four years competing in Minis in the 1960s, and I vividly remember the first time I tested one – a Cooper S at Silverstone. As I went into Copse Corner – flat-out – I realised the tiny disc brakes did nothing at all, so I lifted the throttle, let the back end slide out and then floored the throttle again to get round the corner. That’s how I drove for the next four years... We raced without seatbelts or roll cages in those days – the cars were completely bare inside – and the Mini was just like a go-kart with a roof. The competition was tremendous, too. I think a lot of the time, people used to go to the British Grand Prix more to watch the saloon car racing because it was just so spectacular. We had a lot of fun...”
Gordon Spice, Multiple British Saloon Car Championship Class-Winner:
“I was very lucky – the Capri actually came to my rescue back in the early 1970s. At that time, Formula 5000 had more-or-less given up on me and I was without a drive, and then Stan Robinson offered me a seat in a three-litre Capri in the British Saloon Car Championship, which I snapped up. That was right at the beginning of the Capri era, and it was good-looking, nicely-balanced and a very easy car to drive – almost idiot-proof, I’d say. You had to be either very silly or ambitious to have an accident in it. For me, the Capri vs. Rover battles were amongst the highlights of touring cars down the ages, and it’s wonderful to see the Capri celebrated this year. I wouldn’t miss the Silverstone Classic – I come every year. For me, it’s a better meeting than the Grand Prix. The spirit of the place really captures what the racing used to be like, and I think that’s great.”
Tim Parry, Director of Communications and Brand, Alzheimer’s Research UK:
“We’re delighted to have secured a three-year partnership with the Silverstone Classic. It’s a natural fit – Silverstone boasts some incredible racing memories from down the generations, and we are in the business of protecting those memories. So many cars from previous decades come out on show at the Classic, and that’s what really draws people in. We will use the event as a platform to raise awareness of the diseases behind dementia and show people that we can do something about this and that our research can fund treatments and make breakthroughs possible.”
Paul Stewart, Ambassador, Race Against Dementia:
“My father launched Race Against Dementia, and I’m immensely grateful to Alzheimer’s Research UK for supporting Race Against Dementia fellowships at this year’s Silverstone Classic. Using our joint experience of motorsport, part of our aim is to introduce into the medical world the urgency, energy and spirit of Formula 1. My father felt there were aspects of the medical world that might be inspired if they understood a little bit more about what happens in Formula 1, and to that end, we have organised visits to racing teams to speak to engineers and see what goes on behind-the-scenes. In this way, the Silverstone Classic is the perfect partner – as an event, it wholeheartedly embraces all the values we are looking to promote.” _________________ Rick - Admin
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Posted: Mon Apr 15, 2019 2:50 pm Post subject: |
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‘MR LE MANS’ LAUNCHES CLASSIC TRIBUTE TO THE WORLD’S MOST FAMOUS ROUND-THE-CLOCK RACE.
- Le Mans legend Tom Kristensen introduces special homage
- Saturday night sportscar fever at the 2019 Classic
- From pre-war Bentleys to pacesetting Peugeot prototypes
- All tickets must be purchased in advance
This summer’s Silverstone Classic (26-28 July) will honour Le Mans, the world’s most famous 24-hour race, with Saturday evening’s on-track action featuring three spectacular sportscar showdowns under the evocative ‘Twilight Tribute to Le Mans’ banner.
The exciting initiative was launched today (Wednesday 10 April) at the special Silverstone Classic Preview by Tom Kristensen (photos above and below), the great Danish racer who holds the record for the most outright victories at Le Mans.
Widely known as ‘Mr Le Mans’, Kristensen has won the gallic endurance epic no fewer than nine times, six of which were consecutive successes between 2000 and 2005. Seven of his wins came with Audi, one in a TWR Porsche and one with Bentley in 2003.
“Le Mans is very much where my career unfolded, but it actually began almost by accident,” he revealed. “I only signed with the team four days before the race in 1997 as a late replacement, so I had very big ears trying to gather as much information as possible.
“I had a little bit of prior sportscar experience, but Le Mans is obviously a different challenge altogether. I didn’t know the track, and I only got chance to drive 17 timed laps before the race. It was quite an eye-opener, and I fell in love with the race there and then.
“It will be a real highlight of this summer’s Silverstone Classic to see these cars driving into the dusk – that’s when the race truly starts at Le Mans. For me, the UK is very much the centre of motorsport – and Silverstone is at the heart of it all.”
Ensuring the Classic tribute celebrates the full history of Le Mans, the trio of races selected for the Saturday evening highlight programme will feature 150 cars spanning almost a century of racing through the French countryside, drawn from the Bentley Centenary Trophy for Pre War Sports Cars, FIA Masters Historic Sports Cars and Masters Endurance Legends (photo below top).
Bringing some of the Le Mans magic to Silverstone, all three showdowns will see iconic cars racing flat-out into the sunset and will run to a mini-enduro format, with mid-race pit-stops for driver changes.
The Bentley Centenary Trophy for Pre War Sports Cars will not only celebrate the illustrious Crewe company’s 100th birthday with a record entry of Bentleys from the 1920s and 1930s, but will also showcase early Aston Martins, Alfa Romeos, Bugattis, Lagondas and MGs from the dawn of Le Mans.
The celebrated Circuit de la Sarthe staged the very first running of the now fabled 24 Heures du Mans back in 1923 on closed public roads close to the city of Le Mans in north western France. A lone Bentley was among the pace-setters in that inaugural race, and the hallowed marque won five times over the following seven years – and then again in 2003, when Kristensen was among the victorious driving crew.
The more recent Tom Kristensen era is celebrated by the Masters Endurance Legends grid, which caters for both the super-fast prototypes and supercar GTs that competed at Le Mans between 1995 and 2012.
The FIA Masters Historic Sports Cars that complete the sparkling Twilight Tribute to Le Mans at the Classic highlight another great Le Mans epoch, with a glittering line-up of racers from the 1960s and early 1970s. Typically, the grid includes legendary Ferrari 512s, Ford GT40s, Lola T70s and Porsche 917s.
“It’s going to be an absolutely amazing evening and a real crowd-pleaser,” predicts Nick Wigley, Silverstone Classic CEO. “The three races cover almost the entire history of Le Mans from the original ‘Bentley Boys’ right up to the current generation of hi-tech Peugeot and Aston Martin purpose-built prototypes. Watching them all race into the twilight will be very special for everybody attending the Classic this summer – and to have Tom Kristensen’s blessing is the icing on the cake!” _________________ Rick - Admin
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Posted: Wed May 01, 2019 12:24 pm Post subject: |
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BY ROYAL APPOINTMENT: MIDDLEBRIDGE SCIMITAR AT THE CLASSIC.
- HRH The Princess Royal’s shooting brake joins record birthday gathering
- Showcase also features the famous GTE in which Princess Anne was twice caught speeding!
- Track parade fronted by iconic Cadbury-backed racer
- Record number of car clubs registered for bumper Classic
HRH The Princess Royal’s lifelong love for Scimitar sportscars – as well as her well documented lust for speed – will be on show at this summer’s Silverstone Classic (26-28 July) as part of a record-breaking display celebrating the 30th birthday of the born-again Middlebridge Scimitar.
The enduring relationship The Princess Royal has enjoyed with the much-loved British totem dates back to 1970 when she was given one of the original Scimitar GTE shooting brakes (now more commonly known as the estate car) built by Reliant as a joint 20th birthday and Christmas present by Her Majesty The Queen and HRH The Duke of Edinburgh. In subsequent years, she has owned no fewer than eight further Scimitars, all retaining the original car’s 1420 H registration plate in honour of her position as Colonel-in-Chief of the 14th/20th King's Hussars – an armoured regiment which existed until 1992 when amalgamated with The Royal Hussars.
Such is her affection for the model it was no surprise when she was quick to support an ambitious new company – Middlebridge Scimitar Ltd. – funded by a Japanese businessman and car enthusiast Kohji Nakauchi when it resurrected the GTE shortly after Reliant had ceased production in the mid-Eighties. She officially opened the new factory in Beeston, Nottinghamshire in 1988 and the following year took delivery of the fifth Middlebridge Scimitar (MB5) off the production line – a car still in her stable today.
Even more famously, while awaiting its delivery, Princess Anne was loaned the production prototype (MB1) in which she was twice caught speeding on the Aylesbury by-pass on consecutive days by the same policeman!
In July, along with the pre-production prototype, MB1 and MB5 will be reunited at the Silverstone Classic to mark 30 years of Middlebridge Scimitar production. It will be quite a celebration, too, with an unprecedented gathering including visits from Kohji Nakauchi (known lovingly as ‘Mr Middlebridge’) and Dennis Nursey who was the company’s Chief Executive.
Only 78 of these plusher, fuel injected reborn cars were hand-built at Beeston before Middlebridge went into receivership and 28 of these highly-prized GTEs have been rounded up by the Middlebridge Enthusiasts Scimitar Set and will be driving to the Classic from all over Europe.
“It will be the biggest-ever gathering topping the 27 we had for the 25thanniversary at Gatcombe Park… and we are still hoping for what would be a very fitting 30 cars,” said the club’s Mick Gaughran. “The Silverstone Classic is one of the greatest events in the world and we are delighted to be holding our 30th birthday party there – with such a fantastic turn-out, it’s going to be a wonderful occasion.”
Adding to the festivities, Friday’s special anniversary track parade will be headed by a motor sport icon. As well as acquiring the manufacturing rights to the Scimitar, Middlebridge’s ambitions also stretched into circuit racing culminating with its purchase of the Brabham Grand Prix team.
Previous to its short-lived F1 foray, Middlebridge Racing had been competing in International F3000 and famously its 1989 Reynard 89D as raced by Mark Blundell was backed by chocolate giant Cadbury, boasting an eye-catching purple Dairy Milk livery.
The standout single-seater was recently found in the States and is currently being fully restored to its previous fettle in time to lead the parade at the Classic.
The passionate Middlebridge Enthusiasts Scimitar Set is one of a record number of car clubs registering to be a part of the 2019 Classic, all taking advantage of an exclusive ticket package which remains open until the end of this month (May).
Last year’s best-ever turn-out of 128 clubs has been eclipsed with a new high of 136 clubs already registered for July. Further details on those registered to date and information on the process for car clubs still wishing to apply for registration, are available at: www.silverstoneclassic.com/clubs
Whether or not taking advantage of the Car Club Package, all those wishing to attend this summer’s Silverstone Classic must purchase their tickets in advance. _________________ Rick - Admin
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Posted: Wed May 08, 2019 12:36 pm Post subject: |
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MINI ANNIVERSARY GRID SMASHES ALL RECORDS.
- Biggest-ever races to mark British icon’s 60th birthday
- Incredible full capacity 58-car field with reserves to spare!
- Packed entry features BTCC champion and best-selling novelist
- Special ‘Celebration Package’ open to owners of all pre-2001 Minis
A world record grid of period Minis will celebrate the diminutive icon’s 60th birthday in staggering style at this summer’s Silverstone Classic (26-28 July). Never before – and maybe never again – will so many Minis be seen racing all together on track.
Fittingly 60 entries have already been received for what are going to be a pair of incredible races for the Mini Celebration Trophy Presented by Adrian Flux, marking the British legend’s sparkling Diamond Jubilee at the Classic. With a maximum of 58 starters permitted on Silverstone’s full Grand Prix circuit, latecomers are now being placed on a growing reserve list.
To ensure all festival-goers will be able to share in the Mini’s magical milestone, the action is spread across all three days with what is sure to be a frantic qualifying session on Friday ahead of two unmissable 20-minute showdowns on Saturday and Sunday.
As the entire multitude of original pre-1966 Minis are fitted with similar race-prepared 1275cc engines and built to identical technical regulations – the level of competition is going to be feisty throughout the tightly-packed record field. Even more vigorous as the unrivalled gathering also stars a number of top drivers.
Entries have come from throughout Europe – and as far afield as the US – and are headed by all the proven Mini top guns – aces such as Jonathan Lewis, Ian Curley, Bill Sollis, Lars Ekorness and Nick Swift.
These are joined by best-selling writer of crime-fiction Peter James and a number of well-known racers from the British Touring Car Championship ranks: Jeff Smith, Michael Caine and Patrick Watts as well as 2013 BTCC Champion, Andrew Jordan.
“With 58 minis slipstreaming around Silverstone, these are going to be absolutely mad races!” predicts Jordan who recently gave BMW’s latest 330i M Sport its maiden win in the 2019 BTCC series opener at Brands Hatch. “I’m really looking forward to it – I utterly love historic racing and the Silverstone Classic which is now such a massive event. These Mini races will be one of my highlights of the year.
“We’ve bought a car which we’re rebuilding at the moment, which in itself is really enjoyable. We will have a few tests before the event and then see how we go. While I race historics for fun, of course I’m going to try to win. Actually, I think we’ve got a very good chance of winning!”
While yet another world record grid is nothing out of the ordinary at the biggest retro racing festival on Earth, Silverstone Classic CEO, Nick Wigley,is understandably thrilled. “Last month we announced a record, full-capacity grid of historic F2 single-seaters and now we have the prospect of this equally incredible line-up of Minis,” he enthused. “Everyone loves the Mini and to see so many of them all racing together bumper-to-bumper on the country’s premier circuit is going to be a staggering sight that no one who’s lucky enough to witness it will ever, ever forget.”
Encouraging all Mini owners and enthusiasts of Sir Alec Issigonis’ game-changing gem to share in the spectacular Diamond Jubilee birthday party at the Classic, the event is offering a unique Mini Celebration Package, which includes an anniversary track parade at lunchtime on Friday. This cost-saving offer provides owners of original pre-2001 models with a pair of adult tickets (for Friday or the full three-day weekend), a vehicle pass giving access to the Mini Celebration display area, plus entry into the Mini Celebration track parade taking place on the full Grand Prix circuit which, over the ages, has hosted so many giant-killing Mini heroics (photos top row below of Minis racing at Silverstone in the sixties).
Those wishing to join the party can select the Mini Celebration Package from the ticket options available on the official silverstoneclassic.com website but numbers are limited and package bookings are only possible until the end of May. _________________ Rick - Admin
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