It’s been a little while since I have visited the Goodwood Revival. I was lucky enough to race in the 50th Anniversary E-Type race back in 2011 and it has always had a special place in my heart. Lord March goes to such efforts to ensure all who attend walk away having had a very special experience.
The inner circuit area was incredibly busy considering I visited on Friday and not during the weekend when most races take part. I was surprised at how bustling everything seemed, including all the exhibitor stands.
I was with a dear friend, Richard, who I used to share drives with in his Revival D-Type Jaguar back in the good old days. We’ve remained close friends over many years and it was a joy to spend some quality time with him, surrounded by wonderful cars from a bygone era. Days like that always ignite so many fond memories from when I was a young boy first getting into motor racing, seeing the likes of Jim Clark winning in Spa back in the 60’s etc.
It was great to see Jenson Button driving Adrian Newey’s E-Type Jaguar. His son, Harri was driving with Jenson. Adrian’s car was in my last race at Goodwood in 2011. On that occasion, the car didn’t win due to a mechanical problem. Unfortunately, a different mechanical issue also stopped the winning at Goodwood, which I think they easily would have done. Going back to the 50th anniversary celebration E-Type race, Martin Stratton and John Minshaw won, congratulations to them both. Adrian will be back with his amazing E-Type and I hope he gets that deserving win very soon.
To sum it up, the Revival seems to be in rude health and we really enjoyed a wonderful day. I would recommend Goodwood to anyone, even if you’re not a historic car nut, as most who attend it are. It really is a great day’s entertainment, especially with most people making an effort with their period costumes.
