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Stoneleigh (part 1) Print E-mail
Tuesday, 14 March 2006
3rd International Historic Motorsports Show – Stoneleigh
24/25/26th February, 2006
Text and photos by Carol Corliss and John Sutton  

This the third of its kind continued to build on the success of the previous two years shows.  As more enthusiasts hear of this greatly entertaining event, more are making their way to Stoneleigh to see and experience for themselves the extraordinary blend of interest to be sampled there.  This year there were many more trade stands for companies supplying the aftermarket.

 01_Rally_car_lineup_S.jpgRally cars (Click to enlarge)
The brainchild of Show Director, Ian Williamson, the show is unique in the somewhat crowded calendar of shows and events insomuch as it draws in practically every form of motorised, wheeled sport and presents a vibrant and exciting 3 days of outdoor events, club stands and all branches of trades connected to the sport.  This included such varied interests as karting right through to historic grand prix racing.  The world of motorcycling was well represented. 
 


01_Ferrari_bike_S.jpgRight: Ferrari Motor Cycle. (Click to enlarge)
A selection of Barry Sheen’s racing bikes were on loan from Beaulieu and the unique Ferrari motorcycle was on display too. A trials course had been set up outdoors where some of the great names were demonstrating their skill.
 




Celebrity drivers and riders
 
A number of celebrity drivers and riders were in attendance, these included the great Italian rider Giacomo Agostini truly a legend, Phil Read, Steve Parrish, Mick Grant and John (Mooneyes) Cooper.  Sir Stirling Moss was around as were Jackie Oliver, Vic Elford (He had flown in especially from Florida), Paddy Hopkirk, Pentti Airikkola, Bjorn Waldegaard, Rosemary Smith, Andrew Cowan, Russell Brookes Mike Costin and many other great ambassadors for the sport who have earned their places in motor sporting history. 

 01_Williams_Barrie_S.jpg01_Stirling_S.jpg 
 Barrie Williams Sir Stirling Moss

 Tom Wheatcroft was a familiar face. And, happily out and about again after his most alarming accident at Goodwood in September last was Willie Green

 01_P1010136_S.jpg Willie told me that he has decided to retire having at last been frightened by this very narrow squeak. He was happy to explain that he had a happy and interesting life other than risking any more episodes and that he would be very happy from now on to continue sharing the company of friends and sharing a drink with them when the occasion arose.  Willie, you have been an inspiration to so many people and have given great entertainment over the years, you will be missed on the track but we do look forward to your continued presence in the paddock.
 Wilie Green - out and about again 


Auto Union Replicas

One of the most interesting cars was displayed on the Croothwaite & Gardner stand.  It is one of the replica Auto Unions built by them for Audi at a cost of over £1 million each.  This one is reputed to belong to Bernie Ecclestone.  Shown alongside it is Keith Roach whose firm reproduced the beautiful coachwork.

 
Below: Keith Roach with the replica Auto Union (Click to enlarge)

01_Auto_Union_Roach_S.jpg 01_Auto_Union_2_S.jpg












Other cars we liked - Click on image to enlarge

 01_Gordini_Sports_1_S.jpg 01_Lotus_48_Jim_Clark_S.jpg
 Gordini Sports Racer from the 1950s. Lotus 48 which was driven by Jim Clark.



 
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Last Updated ( Thursday, 10 August 2006 )