Batteries charged, bag packed and a tank full of fuel. Cold and crisp, but the sun is shining as we roll out on our first trip of the year to Goodwood for the 83rd Members Meeting.
Today there is no rush, just a gentle cruise along the fairly quiet motorways. All the while anticipating the winding A-roads that lie ahead. The tree-lined roads deliver smooth, undulating curves. Roads that reward precise and gentle driving over outright speed. Smooth motion. Rhythm at low revs. A peaceful, mindful drive.
Arriving at Goodwood Motor Circuit, we’re presented with a sun-drenched track and an air of excitement as the sound of two-strokes fills the air, waking this historic motorsport venue from its long winter rest. As usual, the paddocks are filled with the buzz of cars, bikes and people everywhere. Spanners turning, tyre pressures checked and engines firing up to the delight of spectators and race crews alike. These simple wooden structures hold a special atmosphere, especially when filled with classic racers and mechanics calmly preparing for the races ahead.
The spring sun sits low, and the morning light falling across the paddock can only be described as buttery smooth. Endless opportunities to find a frame. Walking through the paddocks, eyes are constantly twitching, searching for the next one. Ears listen for a marshal’s whistle, indicating ‘beware, cars are moving’, but we take it as a cue that another frame is about to appear. Cars being pushed through the crowds, some missing body panels, others burbling along with engines idling. Mechanics rolling wheels and pulling trolley jacks. If we’re paying attention, and we’re quick, there are opportunities to capture the drivers too.
The staging area is always a good spot to shoot. Marshals check wristbands and car badges as they enter. Throngs of spectators hug the white picket fences, hoping to get a glimpse of their racing heroes. Drivers pull on helmets and gloves. Some require a helping hand to slide between roll cages and fasten their safety harnesses. Mechanics are busy with last-minute fettling. All the while team members and guests fill the inside, while the official media fight to get their shots.
As the two-minute board is paraded, humans are ushered behind the cars as engines roar into life. Carefully guided by the marshals, these magnificent machines disappear out onto the track and a moment of silence falls across the staging area. As the dust settles, there’s just enough time to catch a few words with friends before the next group of racing legends begins to arrive. The previous lot have barely completed a lap.
There are rhythms that repeat throughout the day. Paddock, staging, racetrack, crowd – all demand attention, all offer different opportunities to find a frame. Eyes follow the light as it falls across cars, faces and paddock walls, waiting for everything to align. All the while, the glorious soundtrack of historic motorsport plays on and we try not to forget to take in the wonderful atmosphere that is the Goodwood Members’ Meeting.
