Photography by Jonathan Sharp
In the United Kingdom, there is only one event which can be mentioned in the same sentence usually only reserved for the Goodwood Revival Meeting…the Silverstone Classic which is being held this year on the weekend of July 20. This event can trace its history way back to 1990 when it was known as the Coys Historic Festival. Until a few years ago it had somewhat lost its way but now it is back up there with the best.
As many as 67 F40s may appear at Silverstone on July 20th.
Constrained by being run at a current F1 circuit, Silverstone cannot display period settings as well as Goodwood. However, by not being constrained by running to an entry cut-off date of 1966 it offers great variety. Having attended the media launch in March this year, I can confirm that this event is going from strength to strength. This year up to 1000 race cars are expected to be entered in 24 races.
At the time of the launch the entry list included, 14 Lola T70s, 8 Can Am McLarens, a Ferrari 312PB, 100 F1 cars spread across three grids and 58 Formula Junior cars.
*In the RAC TT Trophy race alone the entry includes 6 Ferrari 250 SWBs and at least one GTO, 11 Cobras and various Astons.
*As a tribute to Peter Gethin who died recently the organizers will run races for F2 and Formula 5000 cars for the Peter Gethin trophy.
*Two group C races will be run over the weekend with the Saturday race being run into darkness which should prove very spectacular. The entry for these races includes at least 3 Lancia LC2s together with various Porsches, Saubers and Jaguars.
*Two races for Touring cars, right up to the super touring cars of the 1990s, will include various Sierra Cosworth RS500s, this being the car’s 25th anniversary.
*Of particular interest to VeloceToday readers will be the Ferrari F40 celebration. As of March the entry stood at 67!
In addition to a great entry list and close racing, the vast infield area will be filled with thousands of classic cars from over 100 owners clubs. If that wasn’t enough, you will be able to enjoy live music on stage each night whether your listening pleasure be Classical or Rock. If you get bored, enjoy the free classic fun fair, a 1920’s wall of death and flying displays including the famous female wing walkers of the Breitling team. You may even wish to bid for a classic from the Silverstone Auction’s fine selection of lots. It’s a good idea to buy a weekend ticket to enjoy it all.
Scenes from last year’s Silverstone Classic by Jonathan Sharp
Maserati 250F.
Ferrari 512S..1970s cars are welcome at Silverstone.
Frantic pit activity.
Also classes for earlier cars like the GTZ and XKE.
Ferrari GTBs! Won't see them at the Goodwood Revival.
Colorful Daytona Comp.