The exhilarating spectacle of Formula Ford racing recently graced Snetterton, an iconic venue that has witnessed the evolution of motorsport since its inception. This thrilling event was particularly noteworthy as it celebrated cars from two golden eras spanning 1967 to 1981. The Historic Sports Car Club’s season opener attracted an enthusiastic crowd, eager to witness the emotional memories of the past clash with contemporary racing excitement, and it did not disappoint.
The Snetterton circuit, known for being the birthplace of the esteemed Festival in 1972, became the backdrop for remarkable feats of skill and competition. Among the racers, the 78-year-old veteran Rick Morris stood out, storming to victory in Saturday’s Classic championship round. His Royale RP29 was not just a nod to history; it visually represented a timeline of racing glory, mirroring the original colors of his famed racing machine. “I saw cars going everywhere in my mirrors,” recalled Morris with a gleam of nostalgia in his eyes. His victory was made even more dramatic by the chaotic moments that unfolded on the track, particularly during a clash between Adriano Medeiros and newcomer Tom Gadd. For Morris, the race was a masterclass in skillful maneuvering amidst chaos—a testament to years of racing experience.
New Names and Old Rivals Duel on the Track
The competition was fierce, with Gadd, who was making his debut, showing incredible prowess as he battled through the field. Starting from the middle pack, Gadd pushed his way to an impressive second place after a vigorous struggle against seasoned racers. His determined spirit was palpable, especially when he declared, “After testing at Mallory, we came hoping for a top-10 finish.” The weekend evolved into a showcase for rising stars as well as veterans, blending experience with youthful exuberance.
Similarly, defending Classic champion Benn Simms demonstrated stellar driving skills, cutting through the pack with finesse on Saturday. His ability to navigate the tricky corners of Snetterton reflected deep-seated control over his machine, rivaled only by Ben Powney’s agility in the Peter Alexander’s Scalextric Jamun T3. The thrilling battles witnessed among these champions breathed life into the competition; they were not merely racing but were engaged in a staged drama, each participating vehicle telling its own compelling story.
Stunning Performances and Sweet Victories
Ben Glasswell’s victories in the Formula Ford 2000 race series were another highlight of the event—a testament to the legacy of innovation and speed that characterizes this category. Racing in a fleet of Reynard vehicles, Glasswell was unexpectedly dominant, displaying a remarkable level of competitiveness against seasoned veterans. His assertion that these victories felt like “proper ones” illustrated his newfound confidence and mastery within the sport.
However, the racing weekend wasn’t devoid of unexpected turns. Kevin Jones, racing the historic ADA Janspeed Triumph TR8 turbo, not only captured the attention of onlookers but made history by claiming a long-awaited victory—an emotional high for a machine that had faced setbacks since the 1980 Le Mans. His journey from being an invitee to a winner revealed the spirit of resilience ingrained within the motorsport community. Yet, adversity shadowed the high spirits when oil pressure issues retired him from Sunday’s race, allowing Andy Willis to claim victory in the Ford V8-engined Austin ‘A302’.
The Thrill of Diversity in Racing
The Griffiths Haig Trophy races were another vibrant segment of the weekend. They showcased an enchanting variety of 1950s sportscars, each car a piece of artistry in motion. The combination of international entrants injected global flavor into the competition, a symbol of how motorsport transcends borders. Tony Bianchi proved unstoppable in his Allard-Cadillac Farrellac, triumphing against powerful competitors and creating a captivating narrative that added depth to the event.
Likewise, the Alfa Romeo and Italian Intermarque races introduced a thrilling clash of engineering and design, with dramatic performances from powerful vehicles like Barry McMahon’s twin-turbocharged Giulia. The competition highlighted not just the machines but also the dedicated drivers pushing the limits of their vehicles and themselves.
As the dust settled on the weekend’s racing, the stories of triumph, nostalgia, and extraordinary skill blended seamlessly. From the legendary names of the past to the promising talents of today, Snetterton epitomized the spirit of racing—a dynamic interplay of history and modernity where every lap counts and every moment is an opportunity for greatness. The legacy of Formula Ford and its champions continues to inspire generations, ensuring that the roaring engines will always echo on the beloved track.
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