The oldest race still in existence in the UK is set to take place on the 22nd October at Silverstone, with our friends Grove & Dean Motorsport taking the title of proud sponsors.
For those of you that are not familiar with the event, no need to worry, we have everything you need to know.
What is The Birkett Six-Hour Relay Race?
The Birkett six-hour relay race is a team based race that requires 4-6 members a team. The aim is to lap the circuit as many times as possible within the 6-hour time frame, with only one vehicle per team allowed on the track at any given time. The team that successfully completes the most laps is named victorious.
However, there are some vehicles restrictions as only sports and saloon cars are allowed to race – meaning no modern/powerful GT cars can enter Radicals, Caterhams, BMW’s, MX5’s, Smart cars and 2CV’s will all be seen on the track.
To give the less powerful cars a chance of glory, the race operates a handicap system where the slower cars are given a number of credit laps against the quickest lap times. So literally, any of the 75 teams entered can win!!
History
The Birkett relay race was the creation of one of the founding members of the 750 Motor Club; Holland ‘Holly’ Birkett who desired to create an endurance race that was affordable to the many. After his death in 1963, the event was named in his honour.
The first ever Birkett race took place in 1951 at Silverstone. The Silverstone of 1951 was far from the luxurious Grand Prix track we know today, as the event was completed using the runways on the old airfield. Silverstone hasn’t always been the home of Birkett though as the event was moved to Snetterton circuit for a while, but has triumphantly returned to Silverstone.
Due to the diversity and the handicap side of the race, the Birkett relay race has increased in popularity over the years. Names such as; Jim Clark, Graham Hill and Steve McQueen have taken part in this race with some saying Steve McQueen became hooked on endurance racing as a result of it.
This Year’s event
2015 was a record breaking year for the Birkett event; with over 350 vehicles taking part and we’re sure this year will set new records.
Andy Hancock from Grove & Dean Motorsport is set to take to the event in his Alfa Romeo, so we’re wishing him all the best from the Motor-Vision team.
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