CLASSICS AT THE CASTLE - CASTLE HALSTEAD 15/09/2024
Porsche Club GB’s Classics at the Castle – A Legendary Day at Castle Halstead, 15th September 2024
On the 15th of September 2024, Classics at the Castle returns to the breathtaking Castle Halstead, promising to be a highlight of the year for Porsche enthusiasts and classic car lovers alike. Hosted by Porsche Club GB, this prestigious event will bring together the finest Porsches from across the decades in one stunning location. Whether you’re a proud owner, a collector, or simply a fan of iconic automotive design, this is an event you won’t want to miss.
A Celebration of Porsche’s Iconic Legacy
For over 70 years, Porsche has been at the forefront of automotive performance, design, and engineering, and Classics at the Castle will celebrate the brand’s rich heritage. The event promises to showcase a spectacular range of Porsche models, spanning from the early 356s of the 1950s to the air-cooled 911s of the 1970s, as well as more recent models that have defined Porsche’s evolution over the decades.
Visitors will be able to admire the sleek lines, powerful engines, and innovative engineering that have made Porsche one of the most iconic names in motoring. The show will feature not only classic street cars but also rare special editions and motorsport-inspired models that highlight Porsche's incredible racing pedigree.
A Stunning Venue: Castle Halstead
Castle Halstead, with its centuries-old history and picturesque surroundings, is the perfect setting for Classics at the Castle. The magnificent grounds offer a perfect blend of history and luxury, creating an elegant backdrop for the diverse array of Porsches that will be on display. The picturesque castle and manicured gardens provide an ideal environment to showcase the beauty and precision of Porsche vehicles, making it a truly special location for such an iconic event.
The expansive grounds will allow attendees to stroll leisurely from one pristine Porsche to the next, while soaking in the majestic views of the castle. With the stunning architecture of Castle Halstead as a backdrop, every corner of the event will feel like a picture-perfect moment.
A Fun-Filled Day for All
Beyond the cars, Classics at the Castle offers plenty of activities to ensure a memorable experience for every attendee. Porsche Club GB has organised a fantastic program of entertainment, delicious food stalls, some trade stands and a fantastic atmosphere.
For those with a competitive spirit, the event will feature a series of awards for the best Porsches on display. Categories like Best in Show, Best Restoration, and Best Classic Porsche will allow visitors to admire the incredible level of care and passion that goes into preserving and maintaining these incredible machines. The judging panel will include Porsche experts and club members, ensuring that the most deserving vehicles receive the recognition they deserve.
An Exclusive Gathering for Porsche Lovers
Classics at the Castle is more than just a car show—it’s an exclusive gathering of Porsche lovers. Members of Porsche Club GB will have the opportunity to connect, share stories, and celebrate their shared passion for the brand. The event serves as a reminder of the club’s enduring legacy and its commitment to preserving and promoting Porsche’s history.
This event is a wonderful opportunity to meet fellow enthusiasts, exchange tips on restoration and maintenance, and enjoy the camaraderie that comes with being part of the Porsche family. Whether you're an active member or considering joining, Classics at the Castle provides a welcoming environment for anyone who loves Porsche.
Supporting Preservation and Heritage
Proceeds from the event will support Porsche Club GB’s ongoing efforts to preserve the legacy of these remarkable vehicles. The club works tirelessly to promote the restoration and preservation of classic Porsches, and Classics at the Castle is an important fundraiser that will help further this mission. By attending, visitors are not only celebrating the present and future of Porsche but also ensuring that its past is preserved for generations to come.
SALON PRIVE 2024
Salon Privé 2024 was a special one for me. I was in partnership with Lockton Insurance to cover the event for them.
Held at Blenheim Palace, this established event, brings together automotive passion and luxury, offering an exquisite blend of high-end cars, stunning architecture, and a world-class atmosphere. For a photographer, it’s a paradise: a meticulously curated setting where history, craftsmanship, and design collide in a stunning visual feast. The challenge lies in capturing the essence of the event, balancing the elegance of the venue with the dynamic spirit of the automobiles on display.
One of the first things that strikes a photographer at Salon Privé is the sheer scale and variety of vehicles. From rare pre-war classics to the latest hypercars, the event brings together some of the world’s most coveted machines. The natural light of Blenheim Palace grounds, complemented by the soft English skies, provides a unique opportunity to experiment with various lighting conditions throughout the day. Early morning or late afternoon light creates dramatic shadows and soft highlights that make each car's curves and lines come alive.
The cars themselves are a study in design, and I have to demonstrate my ability to translate their intricate details through the lens of my cameras. Whether it’s the gleam of a chrome bumper or the finely sculpted bodywork of a Ferrari, every element offers an opportunity to tell a story. detail shots of engine bays, reflections in the polished bodywork, and the interplay of shadows on a hood are often as captivating as the wide-angle shots of cars in motion.
But capturing the essence of Salon Privé is not just about the cars. The atmosphere of the event—the elegantly dressed guests, the timeless architecture, and the polished lawns—forms a backdrop that elevates the cars into the realm of art. As a photographer, you have to have your wits about you to capture fleeting moments that blend the human experience with the machines. A wide shot of a Rolls-Royce parked against the grand columns of Blenheim Palace, or an attendee admiring a rare Aston Martin, is as important to the story as a shot of the cars themselves.
What sets Salon Privé apart from other automotive events is its exclusivity and intimacy. Unlike larger car shows where the cars are often displayed behind ropes or in vast exhibition halls, Salon Privé offers an environment where visitors can interact with the vehicles up close. This accessibility allows for more dynamic and personal photographs, often featuring owners and enthusiasts in candid moments. The challenge, however, is capturing these interactions in a way that feels authentic, without disrupting the serene luxury of the event. Being the enthusiast I am as well as a photographer I know how precious I am about the safety of my own cars, having a 3 million pound car on display with those in attendance to paw at it would certainly make me just a tad nervous.
The lush greenery of Blenheim Palace’s grounds offers excellent natural framing, but it also requires constant attention to composition. Managing reflections from the surrounding environment can be tricky when photographing shiny surfaces, especially under direct sunlight.
Salon Privé is not just an event; it’s an opportunity to tell a visual story that celebrates the intersection of automotive engineering and art. Each frame is a moment to reflect the elegance, precision, and passion that define this prestigious gathering, making it a photographer’s dream assignment. Whether you’re shooting from a distance or getting up close to the details, Salon Privé is a spectacular canvas for any lens to capture.
Aston Martin 177 at Salon Prive 2024
Simply Porsche 2024
Greeted by the usual “you're not in a Porsche” as I roll into the show in a 330e, which seems to be the year-on-year greeting by the staff. After a quick bit of banter and explaine that I am taking pictures for TIPEC they do what they do every year and wave me on through…
The Simply Porsche event held at Beaulieu on the 2nd of June, 2024, once again showcased the timeless appeal and engineering excellence of the Porsche brand. Nestled in the scenic grounds of the National Motor Museum, this year’s event drew Porsche enthusiasts and car aficionados from across the country, offering a spectacular display of automotive craftsmanship and community spirit.
A Glorious Gathering
The event featured an impressive turnout, with over 800 Porsche vehicles displayed in a diverse array of models, spanning the brand's illustrious history. From the iconic 356s and the classic 911s to the modern-day 992s and electric Taycans, Simply Porsche provided a comprehensive showcase of Porsche’s evolution. Attendees were treated to an up-close experience with some of the rarest and most well-preserved models, highlighting the meticulous care and passion that Porsche owners invest in their vehicles.
Highlight Exhibits
Among the standout exhibits was a pristine 1973 Porsche 911 Carrera RS, a model revered for its lightweight construction and racing pedigree. Another crowd favourite was a striking Porsche 918 Spyder, which garnered significant attention for its hybrid technology and stunning performance figures. Electric vehicles also had their moment, with the Porsche Taycan showcasing the brand’s commitment to sustainable performance but, we do know that Porsche is pulling back from the EV market and looking at more sustainable fuels.
Activities and Highlights
The day was packed with activities that catered to both die-hard Porsche fans and casual visitors. A key highlight was the Show and Shine, where owners proudly presented their vehicles for judging based on condition, originality, and presentation. The fierce competition reflected the high standards the Porsche community maintained.
Technical help, offering insights into Porsche maintenance, restoration, and performance upgrades by experienced club members and trade stand representatives from the Porsche Club of Great Britain and Porsche specialists, providing valuable knowledge for enthusiasts keen on preserving the legacy of their cars.
I was there as the Photographer for The Porsche Independent Owners Club (TIPEC) and every year I get to enjoy the show thanks to the invite from their chairman Andy Harris.
Community and Enthusiast Spirit
Simply Porsche at Beaulieu was more than just a car show; it was a celebration of a shared passion. The camaraderie among attendees was palpable, with owners swapping stories, tips, and experiences. The presence of numerous Porsche clubs added to the community atmosphere, with club stands showcasing group projects and themed displays.
Families and children were also well-catered for, with a range of activities including face painting, treasure hunts, and go-karting, ensuring that the event was enjoyable for all ages. Food and drink stalls provided a variety of options, from gourmet snacks to traditional British fare, ensuring that visitors could enjoy a full day out without having to leave the venue.
Vendor and Sponsor Presence
The event was well-supported by a range of vendors and sponsors, including leading names in the automotive industry. Stalls selling Porsche memorabilia, parts, and accessories did brisk business, while sponsors such as Michelin and Mobil 1 showcased their latest products and technologies tailored for Porsche vehicles. These interactions provided visitors with an opportunity to learn about the latest innovations and enhancements available for their cars.
Conclusion
Simply Porsche at Beaulieu on 2nd June 2024 was a resounding success, reaffirming its status as a must-attend event for Porsche enthusiasts. The combination of a stunning location, a wide variety of cars, engaging activities, and a strong sense of community made it a day to remember. As the sun set over the picturesque grounds of Beaulieu, attendees left with a sense of fulfilment and anticipation for next year’s gathering, where they will once again come together to celebrate the enduring legacy of Porsche.
This event not only highlighted the timeless appeal of Porsche vehicles but also underscored the enduring bond between the brand and its passionate fan base. Simply Porsche at Beaulieu remains a testament to the rich heritage and exciting future of one of the world’s most beloved automotive marques.
Till next year and god only knows what car I will turn up in for the 2025 event.
Take care and stay safe…
Scott
Goodwood FOS 2024
The Goodwood Festival of Speed, a staple in the automotive calendar, returned in 2024 with a bang, showcasing a blend of heritage and cutting-edge innovation in the automotive world. This year’s event, held from July 11 to July 14, featured an array of car brands, each bringing something unique to the table. Another early start to get to the event, even at 06:45hrs in the morning the roads were packed with enthusiasts.
Once the car was parked and a ///what3words location keyed into my phone for the location of the car, it was time to join the mass of people all walking towards the far entrance.
Just for clarity, I was not there as press, although my camera was with me and the images below are just what I took as a spectator rather than as press. All images were taken with my Leica Q3.
Here are the highlights from this year's festival:
Iconic Brands and Stunning Displays
1. Ferrari: Ferrari stole the show with the debut of its latest hypercar, the SF90 Stradale XX. The car, an evolution of the SF90 Stradale, boasts enhanced aerodynamics, a more powerful engine, and advanced hybrid technology. Ferrari also showcased classic models, including the Ferrari F40 and the 250 GTO, celebrating its rich racing heritage.
2. Porsche: Porsche marked the 75th anniversary of the brand with a special display of its most iconic cars. The centrepiece was the new 911 GT3 RS, alongside historic models like the 356 and the legendary 917 race car. Porsche also thrilled spectators with live demonstrations of its Formula E car.
3. Aston Martin: Aston Martin highlighted its future direction with the unveiling of the Valhalla, a high-performance hybrid supercar. The brand also celebrated its 110th anniversary, displaying classic models like the DB5 and the new V12 Vantage Roadster. Aston Martin’s stand was a blend of tradition and innovation, drawing massive crowds.
4. Lamborghini: Lamborghini showcased its first-ever electric concept car, the Lanzador, signalling a bold step into the future of electric mobility. Alongside this futuristic model were the roaring Huracán Tecnica and the Aventador Ultimae, embodying the brand’s commitment to performance and design.
5. Bugatti: Bugatti brought the Chiron Super Sport to Goodwood, showcasing its breathtaking speed and luxury. The brand also displayed the unique Centodieci, a homage to the Bugatti EB110, highlighting its limited-edition models that blend history and modern engineering prowess.
6. McLaren: McLaren unveiled the Solus GT, a track-only hypercar designed to push the boundaries of performance. The brand also highlighted its Artura, a high-performance hybrid supercar, demonstrating McLaren's focus on sustainable yet thrilling driving experiences.
7. Ford: Ford introduced the new Mustang Dark Horse, a high-performance variant of the iconic muscle car, alongside the all-electric Ford F-150 Lightning. Ford’s presence at the festival emphasized the brand’s commitment to combining tradition with innovation, appealing to both petrolheads and eco-conscious drivers.
Event Highlights
Hill Climb: The centrepiece of the festival, the Hill Climb, saw numerous records being challenged. Notable runs included the Rimac Nevera, which demonstrated the sheer power of electric vehicles by setting an impressive time, and the Toyota GR Yaris H2, showcasing hydrogen fuel technology.
The Hillclimb Shootout showcased an impressive array of vehicles and talented drivers, culminating in some thrilling results. Romain Dumas took the top spot with a blistering time of 45.0 seconds in the Ford Supervan 4.2, demonstrating his exceptional skill and the car's remarkable performance capabilities.
Other notable performances included Michael Lyons, who clocked 47.3 seconds in the Gurney Eagle FA74, and James Wallis, who achieved a time of 48.1 seconds in the Porsche 992 GT3 Cup. These runs highlighted the diversity of vehicles and driving prowess on display at the event
In addition to the overall fastest times, the event also featured winners in various classes. Mark Walker won the Pioneers category in a Darracq 200HP with a time of 1:14.0, and Julian Majzub took the Pre-War Racers category in a Bugatti Type 35B with a time of 1:01.8
2024 FESTIVAL OF SPEED TIMED SHOOTOUT RESULTS: HERE
Supercar Paddock: The Supercar Paddock was a feast for the eyes, featuring the latest and greatest from brands like Koenigsegg, Pagani, and Lotus. Attendees had the opportunity to get up close with the vehicles, and many supercars took to the hill for thrilling demonstration runs.
Future Lab: The Future Lab provided a glimpse into the future of mobility with exhibits on autonomous driving, advanced aerodynamics, and sustainable materials. Noteworthy displays included the Hyundai N Vision 74, a hydrogen-powered concept car, and the Airbus eVTOL, representing the future of urban air mobility.
Classic Car Parade: The Classic Car Parade celebrated the history of the automobile with a stunning array of vintage vehicles. Highlights included a 1960s Ferrari 250 LM, a pristine Jaguar E-Type, and the legendary Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR, all driven up the hill to the delight of spectators.
For all the images and videos of the day including press articles please visit to the Goodwood Festival of Speed site: HERE