Keeping the spirit of the Brooklands 500 Alive
A throwback to 2017 - Story originally written for AutoAddicts Volume One
Even after 80 years, stories from the famous Brooklands 500-mile events continue to inspire motoring enthusiasts around the world - So what better way to pay homage than hold a 500-mile race?
Once held on the steep, high speed banking of the Brooklands circuit and attracting a unique collection of cars and motor racing names to Surrey, the BRDC’s 500-mile race held from 1929 to 1937 was known as the fastest long distance race in the World. Inspired by their forebears, the Benjafield’s Racing Club revived the 500 by travelling this year to Spain with 24 pre-war cars (including some original Brooklands cars) for the Benjafield’s 500.
However, this year’s ‘500’ event was not just about recreating the Brooklands venue as I’m told by organiser Chris Lunn on our way in. Rather, it was a unique opportunity to celebrate the spirit of the original event with a focus on the joy of racing and the thrill of pushing pre-war cars to the limits. Adding to the thrill as in period, this year’s race would take place as a handicap event just like the original races, allowing cars of all varieties to take part and encourage teams to not only focus on outright speed, but strategy.
Tucked away in the middle of the countryside with not much more than a small sign 50 meters from the entrance indicating its existence, this year’s venue; the Ascari Circuit, although remarkably different to Brooklands, provided an equally unique and challenging setting for drivers and cars.
Just after sunrise on race day with Spanish mountains looming in the background, the assembly of vintage cars fell into line on the pit straight with engines warming up with no noise limit to restrict them. Waiting in eager anticipation for the race start, the grid and circuit, set against an impressive sight of natural surroundings could easily have been mistaken for a view from the Brooklands era. However, at 9am, the sound of thunder was reverberated around the mountains as each car was released individually by the drop of a flag. Laps now counting down, the race for Benjafield’s 500 honours was well and truly on.
Only a handful of laps in, the challenge of endurance racing became evident as problems were encountered by the Burnett/Birch Talbot who reluctantly retreated to the paddock. Proved to be one of the fastest in qualifying, it was a disappointing way to start the 500, but not too late to set the fastest lap when they sorted out the problem.
As the race continued and the sun began to rise, so too did the track temperatures and competition on the circuit. Although the grid primarily featured a long line of intimidating vintage Bentleys, it was the smaller, lighter bodied BMW 328, Vauxhall 30/98, Alvis Speed 20 SA, Triumph Gloria Special and Talbot’s that found advantage in the corners. Dwarfed in comparison to their Bentley counterparts, it was surreal to watch as they diced side by side and in between the giants just as they would have at Brooklands.
Despite the friendly competition, it was clear that at the event’s core was an enjoyment of racing, determination to keep the cars moving and in turn, showcasing the Brooklands 500 spirit to a new generation. Attracting not only competitors and supporting teams, the event also saw many volunteers and spectators arrive in Spain, eager to see these moving machines of history celebrated, enjoyed and thrashed.
Moving into the later stages of the race, the pace increased across the board as teams began to set their sights on their target mileage. Equally, their patience was tested during refuelling stops in the Brooklands inspired station, where drivers were forced to pump fuel by hand. With only a few minutes left of the race, the driving was intensive as tyres screeched and rear ends drifted from corner to corner.
At last, after eight long hours of racing, thousands of miles covered between them and many sets of Blockley tyres worn down to slicks, every starter of the race past the chequered flag to find champagne bottles, primed and waiting for them in the pitlane to be sprayed and cascaded down the flanks of the vintage machines. Enjoying the moment a little bit more were overall winners Robert Abrey and Julian Riley, having claimed the silverware in their 1930 Bentley 6½ Litre.
As race day ended and the Ascari clubhouse swimming pool found itself overflowing with drivers and their Benjafield’s suits, I felt truly lucky to have been able to witness such a unique and momentous occasion. From 1929 -1937, The Brooklands 500 had created a legacy that inspired a generation. Today, that spirit lives on thanks to clubs like the Benjafield’s Racing Club, built on foundations that aim to preserve the historic spirit and sportsmanship of British motorsport by using their cars that make it possible for history to continue inspiring generations to come.
Many thanks to the Benjafield’s Racing Club for having me along the incredible ride!
