Guilt-free at Goodwood
Being a certified petrolhead/car bore/motoring geek (delete as applicable) can be tricky, especially in these modern and environmentally obsessed times.
Mention you’re into cars among the nations chattering classes in 2010 and you will no doubt find yourself on the defensive, on your own, or deflecting suggestions you are wholly responsible for the Mediterranean weather we’re experiencing this week (sorry about that). As motoring enthusiasts find themselves further under siege, seeking solace with those who share our obsession can come as a welcome moral boost.
Lap board at Goodwood Motor Circuit
Enter Goodwood motor circuit, and it’s master of ceremonies Lord March. Each month since 2006, the Goodwood Estate has been inviting anyone willing to get up early enough (my alarm went at 6.45am, thanks for asking) to pace its famous tarmac and delight in the knowledge that the UK is still full of enthusiasm for vehicles of all shapes and sizes.
It’s not the bacon and egg butties that warm the cockles though, it’s the spirit and atmosphere of camaraderie among those in attendance
The club dates are free to attend, and the breakfast in question is available to all willing to pay a bit of a premium over their normal greasy spoon. You’re even offsetting the food miles from your regular Sunday fry-up; the bacon and egg served up comes straight from the estates farms – and damn tasty it is too.
It’s not the bacon and egg butties that warm the cockles though, it’s the spirit and atmosphere of camaraderie among those in attendance that bring a warm glow to this car geeks heart once a month. Today was ‘Soft Top Sunday’, so anyone who can drop the canvas or metal above them when required was welcome to display their pride and joy on this famous tarmac for free, the rest of us parking in the visitor areas.
Highlights from this mornings meet included an Audi R8 Spyder, countless AC Cobras, a smattering of Elans and a stunning Rolls Royce Phantom Drophead – in total there were over 250 cars from across the price and desirability spectrum on display at the circuit and paddock area. I confess to letting out a slight snigger when watching a very ropey looking Cavalier convertible make its way into place alongside far more desirable metal, but was quick to give myself a telling off; it’s the shared love of classic, vintage, sports and everyday vehicles that make this event so special.
Cars arriving at Goodwood Breakfast Club
It takes those with enthusiasm for cars to set that early alarm come rain or shine and make the journey down to Sussex, and it brings with it an array of old and young who bask in the sights and smells of vintage, classic and modern motoring. The Festival of Speed may bring more glamour to Goodwood, but for me it’s the monthly dose of bacon and banter with fellow car-loving comrades that keeps me happy in the knowledge I’m not alone – I hope to be saving the first Sunday of each month for many years to come.