A classic motorsport event that hasn’t taken place for almost half a century is poised to return to the UK motorsport calendar. The Chateau Impney Hill Climb, a new weekend-long event taking place on July 11-12, will see 200 competitors in 19 classes tackle a brand-new course in an effort to write their names into a new chapter of the venue’s motorsport history.
More than 58 years since the first speed trial was held on the grounds of the landmark hotel, the launch of the 2015 Chateau Impney Hill Climb will commemorate the venue’s motorsport heritage. It will aim to recapture the inclusive spirit of the popular sprint events originally organized by the Hagley & District Light Car Club between 1957 and 1967.
“We are thrilled to be able to bring motorsport back to Chateau Impney,” said Rod Spollon, chairman of the Chateau Impney Hill Climb Club. “In its heyday, the Chateau Impney sprint was one of the most anticipated events on the calendar and a favorite with spectators and competitors, but until recently it seems it was destined to become the Midlands’ forgotten motorsport event.”
Catering for pre-1967 cars, the 2015 event will see competitors put to the test on a longer, more challenging MSA-approved track. Almost double the length of the course used in original sprint events of the ’50s and ’60s, the organizers believe it to be one of the most challenging and unique in the country. In its inaugural year, entry to the Hill Climb will be via invitation only, with cars and drivers selected based on competiveness, historical significance and whether they have any connection to the competitions held at the Chateau in the past. The reintroduction of the event has already garnered strong support from other leading car clubs and hill climb courses, who are delighted that a new event is to be added to the historic motorsport calendar.
Organizers hope to attract 10,000 spectators across the weekend to the parkland setting. As well as a wealth of motorsport action, there will be a host of other attractions for enthusiasts and families alike, including a comprehensive Concours d’Elegance, a trading zone with over 100 dealer and trade stands and a major classic car auction. Vintage Racecar’s European team will be exhibiting there too—come and meet us. Tickets for the Chateau Impney Hill Climb are now available for each day, as well as a weekend pass for the whole event, and any ticket purchases made online before Tuesday June 30 will receive a 10 percent discount. To find out more, visit www.chateauimpneyhillclimb.com
