Benjafield’s Racing Club held its first Sprint event in seven years on Saturday 23rd May 2015, bringing a fantastic line-up of rare racing cars spanning over 100 years.
Around 45 interesting and historic racing cars took to the Goodwood circuit in Chichester, including the rare 1907 Itala, an original Lister ‘Knobbly’ Jaguar that raced at Le Mans and the Brooklands Bentley, the Pacey Hassan Special.
Representing modern motoring, the fastest times of the day were set during demonstrations from the Ferrari F12 and Mercedes SLS, while much interest was created by the new Tesla Model S electric car.
There were also impressive runs by Martin Hunt in the 1964 Jaguar E-Type, Julian Grimswade in the 1934 Fraser Nash, and Chris Lunn in the Lister Knobbly.
Some drivers had driven for 24hrs while others flew in in from across Europe, New York, Singapore and beyond especially for the event that was free for spectators to attend.
Spectators were rewarded with a day of sprinting, with a lunchtime parade of all 23 vintage Bentleys taking part, including several of the original Bentley 4.5-Litre Blowers, before the cars lined up on the grid for enthusiasts to take a closer look.
The Goodwood Grid Girls added to the glamour along with two aerial displays, one from a vintage Tiger Moth and the other from a fixed wing stunt plane.
The event finished off with a dinner at Goodwood Hotel where the various class winners were acknowledged in an awards ceremony all in the presence of the great grandson of Dr. Benjafield, who came to support the club.
Competitions Captain William Medcalf said, “This was a real fun packed day showing just what like-minded enthusiasts can think up! Thanks to all the members, drivers and marshalls who helped put together a unique event. The response from the spectators was brilliant and we will be looking to make this an annual event for real enthusiasts to enjoy.”
Goodwood’s Clerk of the Course Ian Stephens commented, “The Benjafield’s Racing Club is a really great bunch of people, so open and sharing of their passion. I would recommend everyone to make a note in their diary for next year, this event is going to grow!”
The next Benjafield’s Sprint will be held in May 2016. Date to be confirmed at Benjafields.com.
Benjafield’s Sprint Goodwood 2015 – Photo Gallery (click image for larger picture)
