Rolex celebrates motor racing with a drive down memory lane

Rolex Testimonee and three-time Formula 1 world champion Jackie Stewart leads this year’s Goodwood Revival.

THE Goodwood Revival has for more than 20 years been honoring motor racing as this was done during the period between 1948 and 1966. This year’s edition of the event, scheduled on September 13 to 15, is expected to see drivers, mechanics and spectators dressed in mid-20th century fashion celebrating the history of the automobile.

In line with Rolex’s enduring commitment to motor sport — which dates back to the early 1930s — the Goodwood Revival recognizes the significance of a period during which the boundaries of technology were pushed, inspiring cultural trends that continue to resonate today.

“The Goodwood Revival is unique in the world of motoring; it is a collection of the finest cars in the most beautiful setting,” said Rolex Testimonee and three-time Formula 1 world champion Jackie Stewart. “The Duke of Richmond has built it into a magnificent time capsule that brings to life the history of our sport, with superb cars and spectators encouraged to dress in the mode of this Golden Age. The authenticity of the event is exceptional and something you will always remember fondly. Rolex is very much part of the Goodwood Revival; the quality, immaculate detail, integrity and prestige perfectly aligns the brand with the Revival.”

Throughout the three-day event, Goodwood Motor Circuit hosts wheel-to-wheel racing alongside various paddock activity. The highly anticipated Kinrara Trophy launches competitive proceedings on Friday evening as an array of the most expensive pre-1963 closed-cockpit cars race into the sunset. A further 14 races will follow on Saturday and Sunday as motorcycles, touring cars, GT automobiles and prototypes recreate the glory days. The two-driver Royal Automobile Club TT Celebration race on Sunday is set to be a particular highlight of the weekend, featuring a breathtaking collection of priceless GT cars in an hour-long contest.

The Rolex Drivers’ Club brings together aficionados and motor racing heroes from across the ages. Jeff Gordon, four-time Nascar champion and winner of the 2017 Rolex 24 At Daytona, will attend for the first time and take on driving duties. Returning to Goodwood and driving a 1960s Paton in the Barry Sheene Memorial Trophy is multiple MotoGP race winner Dani Pedrosa.

Said Rolex Testimonee Tom Kristensen, a regular visitor to the Revival who is set to compete again this year; “Goodwood Motor Circuit is very challenging. The circuit is fast and the layout of the track equally so, requiring enormous concentration. It is a tremendous feeling driving an old-school circuit in vintage cars. I always drive the track with the utmost respect, remembering the great drivers and iconic cars that have raced there.”

Incidentally, Kristensen is a record nine-time winner of the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

Away from the track, Beatlemania will sweep the paddock as the Revival pays tribute to the Swinging Sixties. Rarely seen Mini Coopers, once owned by The Beatles, will be on display for visitors to admire as the fashion of the decade is honored throughout the weekend. The Revival High Street will again transport the crowd back in time. The Freddie March Spirit of Aviation gathers rare and historic aircrafts.
As the Goodwood Revival draws to a close on Sunday evening, the Rolex Driver of the Meeting award will be presented to the competitor who exhibited flawless skill behind the wheel during the event.

Rolex supports this trip down memory lane, reflecting on the legacy of the automobile, culture and fashion.