The highlight was taking Sir Stirling and Lady Susie from their hotel to the ball at the Goodwood Revival. I politely asked when they were sitting comfortably in the Javelin whether they wanted me to drive sedately or normally. 'Normally' was the rapid response. After a couple of hundred yards, just after we entered the Goodwood House grounds, Lady Susie asked if I could drive a bit faster. As we approached a right hander I suggested I should slow down as the road was wet and I was on crossplies. Sir Stirling said 'there was plenty of run off', so I continued and with a lot of lean the Javelin did not need the run off.
This corner was followed by a very sharp left and then once again I was encouraged to go faster. As we approached the gate house approaching 70mph there was some comment from the back about brakes, which were then applied which met with approval about their efficiency. Thanks to Ben Shaw who fitted power brakes in the 60s.
We then took a back gate into the circuit, crossing the grass onto the track. I was now asked to try to enter Woodcote at 100mph. We had a go; but since it was dark and I had not practiced this corner before, and I did not want to damage my esteemed passenger before his birthday party, I probably only got to 60mph. I then asked if Sir Stirling could sign the glove box of the car beside the signature of Gerald Palmer who also rode in the car. Lady Susie suggested I stop before we entered the marquee. Sir Stirling moved to the front, duly found his pen and inscribed the wood.
The Javelin delivered its precious cargo to inside the marquee where 1500 VIPs of the motoring world were assembled, dressed in black ties and ladies with a Spanish theme. We lingered while photographs were taken and greetings exchanged. Many commented on the Javelin's presence.
This journey was one of many taking people to and from the circuit and around it, exposing the delights of the Javelin to new eyes, ears and noses. Thanks to Jenny for the polishing and the special wax she uses to make the seats smell. Thanks to the Dellorto carbs and separate air filters that were in keeping with the competitive car sound which brought many comments as the Javelin pulled from 20 to 65mph in third gear.
I will be back next year, so hope to see more of you there. It is by far the best event in the world for cars, motorbikes and planes as well as fashion and good honest side-splitting fun.