Goodwood Revival 2025
Goodwood Revival - Saturday 13th September
Short notice on Tuesday… Hey Scott (Nick, a former work colleague, friend and thoroughly lovely chap), I have an admission ticket going spare, would you like to join me… Without hesitation, it was a “Hell Yes !!”
Now I have never been to the Revival, many, many years I have been attending Festival of Speed, and year in, year out, friends have fallen over themselves to tell me how good the event is. This time it was time to indulge, even if it was as a spectator and not working as a Photographer.
As promised, Nick was on my doorstep at 06:20hrs on Saturday morning, looking all the gentleman that he is. I had my waistcoat on, a flat cap, and matching attire to blend in with the others who were attending. Rucksack, umbrella and camera and then we were off on our travels.
Nick owns a lovely little Lotus Evora, and even though the heavens had opened that morning, the Lotus was keeping us firmly planted on our journey towards Goodwood.
On arrival at one of the many waterlogged fields, we managed to get the car into a semi-decent spot without too much mud, and then we were off to the entrance and into the 1940s, 50s & 60s
Nick and I enjoying the rather wet racing at Goodwood.
On the reacetrack, the morning began much like the day before, with a colourful procession of classic ‘Splitty’ Volkswagen Type 2 Campers. Not long after, we were thrust straight into the excitement with the Goodwood Trophy — a thrilling contest featuring Grand Prix and Voiturette machines reminiscent of those that competed at Goodwood’s inaugural events back in the 1940s.
That opening act was just a taste of what became a day packed with unforgettable historic motorsport. Sleek GT icons — from the timeless Jaguar E-type to the muscular AC Cobra — roared through their second Official Practice for the prestigious RAC TT Celebration. Meanwhile, the Barry Sheene Memorial Trophy brought a touch of two-wheeled elegance to the day, showcasing beautiful classic motorcycles in action
Elsewhere on the circuit, the younger crowd had their moment as the tiny racers of the Settrington Cup took to the track in their charming Austin J40 pedal cars. The Madgwick Cup delivered style and speed with its field of open-top sports cars, while the St Mary’s Trophy kept fans on edge with its relentless touring car duels. From the graceful GTs of the Fordwater Trophy to the ground-shaking power of the Whitsun Trophy prototypes, every race brought something special.
Plenty of action towards the end of the day in the Stirling Moss Memorial Trophy. The Stirling Moss Memorial Trophy is a race for pre-1963 closed-cockpit GT cars, the kind of cars that the great man himself raced to victory numerous times around the Goodwood Motor Circuit.
Two Austin Healeys were involved in a scuffle with a Jag; one of the cars unfortunately rolled over and caused serious damage to the vehicle. The driver was checked over and didn’t sustain any injuries. Then we had another Austin-Healey catch fire and was retired after a restart. There was certainly enough drama to keep us all entertained.
We managed to get a look around the stalls and the paddock, and even got close to the man himself, Damon Hill.
While on our ventures around the event, Nick introduced me to Ian and his lovely wife, Kimberly. Ian is one of the many faces of Alfaholics, who has over 40 years of concours-winning restoration experience and 28 years of race-winning knowledge and product development.
Off to the stalls to look at what was on offer from the traders. Luckily, I have some restraint and I don’t splash out on £100’000 cars lol. Very tempting though, especially when you're in love with PPW’s R33.
Time as usual was against us, and as the day came to a close and the recing finished, it was time to go and find the lotus, take the weight off our feet and head out into the queues of those eager to make their way home.
In my honest opinion, the three-day event needs you to be there for all three days to soak up the atmosphere and transport yourselves back in time. If you have the means, grab a B&B locally if there are any available; if not, a camper would be a good option. I hear the nightlife around the event is fantastic, and if all else fails, bring a tent and a change of clothes. Until next year…
Stay safe, stay happy…
Scott
PPW’s R33 - A modern homage to the 1968 Alfa Romeo Tipo 33 Stradale
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