Back in 2011, the HRDC came to the rescue of pre-’60 Touring Cars. Interest in these cars was still there, but no dedicated race series was in force. An inaugural race was staged at Mallory park and the rest was history. Thereafter, for several seasons, the HRDC fielded strong grids for ‘Touring Greats’ races until grids started waning in 2019. From then on, the remaining pre-‘60s cars have been integrated with pre-’66 Touring Cars in the HRDC ‘Jack Sears Trophy’.

It’s common knowledge that the ‘lost’ pre-’60 racers still exist. Many are simply lying dormant in garages. Is it time to wake them up and, if so, where can they race again on an even playing field?

I think it would be great if we can dynamically demonstrate that there is a desire to  race these cars again outside of the biennial St. Mary’s Trophy for pre-’60 Touring Cars at Goodwood’s Revival.

To see Austin A35s and A40s hustling Jaguar Mk.1s, Sunbeam Rapiers fencing with Alfa Romeos, mighty Westminsters bellowing in pursuit of Ford Zodiacs and Zephyrs, plus, the broad spectrum of Borgwards, Peugeots, MG Magnettes, Rileys, Morris Minors and more, battling throughout a field of like-minded competitors is a spectacle I think
is well worth reviving!

So how do we move on from here? Are you interested in getting involved in a true renaissance for this evocative sector of historic touring cars racing?

The HRDC is prepared to put its money where its mouth is by offering a financially supported pilot race dedicated to these cars at Snetterton on the 28th June.

The format of the race has two options:

1. 1. 45-mins pitstop race for optional 1 or 2-drivers
   2. 30-mins race for solo driver.

The HRDC will subsidise the race fees:

1. 1. £895.00 sponsored to £495.00
   2. £595.00 sponsored to £295.00

SO NOW IT’S DOWN TO YOU:

1. Do you want to see a revival for these cars?
2. Are you prepared to support a pilot race at Snetterton?
3. If so, what is your preference – 30-mins or 45-mins race?
4. Going forward, would you want a full 5-event Series for these cars?
5. Or would you prefer running your car at fewer meetings?

LET ME KNOW IF YOU ARE OF A MIND TO SUPPORT THIS INITIATIVE.
YOUR FEEDBACK WILL DECIDE THE FUTURE ON THIS INITIATIVE EITHER WAY…

SO, YOUR RESPONSE WOULD BE MUCH APPRECIATED!

JULIUS THURGOOD
07850 361159
www.hrdc.uk