Author: Chris Ashby

Best of BARC Audio: BARC Awards Evening 2023

Championship winners, organisers, officials and volunteers converged on the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Stratford-upon-Avon this past Saturday (February 3) for the British Automobile Racing Club’s annual Awards Evening – and it proved to be a night to remember.

Celebrating the accomplishments of 2023, we sat down to talk to some of the key personnel from the Club and some deserving winners. Listen here: 

Ben Taylor – BARC Chief Executive: The Club’s Chief Executive sat down to chat about a momentous season 2023 was, honouring the champions of last year and what is to come for the organisation as preparations ramp up for the 2024 campaign.

Mark Turner – BARC Sporting Manager: The Club’s Sporting Manager sits down to reflect on 2023 as a whole as well as a shine a light on some of the highlights that the Competitions Department is set to offer up this year.

Paul Graham-Fielding – BARC Group Head of Marketing & Communications: Now a year into the role, we caught up with the Club’s Group Head of Marketing & Communications to discuss how he’s settled in, what he’s focused on over the past 12 months and what is still to come.

Steve Bemrose – BARC Marshal of the Year: Awarded by the BARC Marshals Core Group, Steve was a standout recipient for this accolade having volunteered for a number of events, as well as also providing critical life-saving medical care at the scene of an accident.

Adam Weeden – Winner of The Sir Clive Bossom Trophy: Awarded to the marshal that completed the most volunteering days in 2023, Adam was a regular attendee to events last year and clocked no less than 36 days in total.

Dan Zelos – Winner of The President’s Cup: Awarded to the most successful BARC member competing under international level, Dan Zelos was unstoppable in the Vertu Motors MINI CHALLENGE JCW last year as he lifted the title for the second title.

Louis Sharp – Winner of The Peter Collins Trophy: Awarded to the most promising junior driver, the New Zealander was deemed a worthy recipient having charged to the ROKiT F4 British Championship certified by FIA title with Rodin Carlin.

Dave Beecroft – Winner of The Gerry Marshall Trophy: Awarded to the person that the BARC believes epitomises Gerry Marshall’s philosophy of motorsport, Dave has enjoyed a diverse career in the sport and has been the driving force of the Junior Saloon Car Championship for the past decade.

Sonia Gibbons – Winner of The Densley Trophy: Awarded to the female in the Club that has enjoyed a successful year, Sonia has played a pivotal role in the success of the Classic Touring Car Racing Club from an organisational standpoint for a number of years.

Claire Hedley – Britcar Managing Director: It was once again another busy year for Claire Hedley as she ran both the Britcar Trophy Championship and British Endurance Championship. And she’s set to do the same again for 2024.

Additional audio interviews from the British Automobile Racing Club Awards Evening can be found HERE.

Dan Zelos, Louis Sharp & Steve Bemrose top list of special accolade winners at BARC Awards

The British Automobile Racing Club’s annual Awards Evening didn’t just see the championship winners of 2023 celebrated on Saturday (February 3) as a number of other special accolades were bestowed upon hugely deserving winners too.

Leading the list of prestigious recipients was newly-crowned double MINI CHALLENGE JCW champion Dan Zelos who claimed The President’s Cup; which is awarded to the most successful BARC member competing under international level.

Becoming the first driver in the modern era of the ultra-competitive tin top series to clinch the coveted crown for a second time, Zelos chalked up an impressive ten victories and a further two podiums on his way to championship superstardom.

Zelos lauded: “It was totally unexpected and a complete honour to pick it up. We had an amazing year in 2023 and sometimes when your in the middle of getting deals together in the off season you forgot how much you may have achieved – so to be rewarded with a trophy like this has left me lost for words.

“Me, my Dad and the rest of the family have and continue to work incredibly hard to go racing and this is a fantastic accolade to receive. I think I’ve been part of the BARC for more than a decade now too.”

One of the biggest raptures of applause deservedly went the way of this year’s BARC Marshal of the Year, Steve Bemrose. In memory of Dennis Harris and designed to recognise the dedication and special efforts of the Club’s marshals, Bemrose was worthy winner after being selected by the Marshals Core Group.

Attending a multitude of race meetings over the course of last year, his actions in particular at the BTCC season-opener at Donington Park played their part in saving the life of a driver following a high-speed accident.

“It is a complete shock I must admit,” he said. “I’ve always been a fan of motorsport and I remember reading a review about being a marshal, what it entails and I never really comprehended how close you could get to the action, etc. 

“After I had done my taster day my love for it grew and I’ve never looked back. The marshal community is incredibly tight-knit and if there is anyone out thinking about getting involved then do it, because it is just fantastic.”

Elsewhere, Junior Saloon Car Championship and Track Action Coordinator Dave Beecroft saw his diverse and distinguished motorsport career be celebrated as he scooped The Gerry Marshall Trophy, having epitomised the philosophy for motorsport that Gerry once had.

He said: “This award really means a lot to me because Gerry Marshall was a childhood hero of mine; I remember watching him at Oulton Park and was fortunate enough to meet him several times – so it was touching to be this year’s recipient.

“I love everything about this industry and its nice to be kicking off the year like this; especially because we’ll be celebrating our 10th anniversary in the Junior Saloon Car Championship, which is an incredible achievement.”

For the second year in succession, The Densley Trophy – which is bestowed upon the female in the Club that has been deemed to have a successful year – was handed out, with the Classic Touring Car Racing Club’s Sonia Gibbons claiming the prize. 

“I never ever expected to be given this award,” she admitted. “I didn’t even think I would be up for it so I am extremely proud to have won. At the Classic Touring Car Racing Club we are all volunteers but it is a real family. It’s a wonderful Club and I’m honoured to be a part of it.”

Louis Sharp’s charge to the ROKiT F4 British Championship certified by FIA title didn’t go unnoticed as he was honoured with The Peter Collins Trophy, which is awarded to the most promising junior drive competing in a BARC championship.

After enjoying a hugely encouraging debut campaign in 2022, the New Zealander lived up to the mantel of being a title favourite by edging out Will Macintyre to the single-seater crown in the final race of the season.

“It came as a complete surprise to me and it’s a massive privilege to receive it so thank you to the BARC for recognising me – it was a nice end to a really special night,” he said. “This award is a fantastic reward for everyone that has supported me. 

“My ambition is to one day get to Formula 1 and while it has been a good start to that journey I’m well aware that there is a long way to go and that it will continue to get more competitive. I’m loving the challenge though and can’t wait to see what is next!”

Rounding out the list of special award winners was Adam Weeden, who completed the most volunteering days to lift The Sir Clive Bossom Trophy, and Zena Wooller who was named BARC Trainee Marshal of the Year.

“I’m delighted,” said Weeden. “This award goes to show how much marshals are appreciated because we give our time, which is very precious to us, to show support to the drivers and the championship.”

BARC enjoys night to remember at Annual Awards

The British Automobile Racing Club’s annual Awards Evening took centre stage on Saturday 3rd February with deserving champions, volunteers, officials and organisers coming together to celebrate what was a momentous 2023 season. 

Officially drawing a line under last year’s campaign, the glittering evening – which took place at the Crowne Plaza in Stratford-upon-Avon – saw more than 230 guests swap race suits and overalls for dinner jackets and ball gowns.

Hosted by the superlative Alan Hyde, guests not only had the opportunity to look back on the year that was but they also heard from BARC Chairman Tony Scott Andrews, BARC Chief Executive Ben Taylor and Motorsport UK Chief Executive Hugh Chambers. 

Those in attendance also had the opportunity to hear from leading Formula 1 journalist and land-speed record competitor David Tremayne, who was a special guest of Tony Scott Andrews for the evening. 

Alongside the customary championship awards – which were handed out to the likes of Daryl DeLeon, Paul Rivett, Stephen Primett, Joe Warhurst and many more – a number of secret accolades were also presented to some unsuspecting winners on the night as well. 

Adam Weeden scooped The Sir Clive Bossom Trophy for conducting the most volunteering days in 2023 whilst Steve Bemrose was announced as the BARC Marshal of the Year, which is named in memory of Dennis Harris.

Two-time MINI CHALLENGE JCW champion Dan Zelos claimed the biggest prize of the night, The President’s Cup, while Louis Sharp’s stellar title-winning ROKiT British F4 season was rewarded with The Peter Collins Trophy – which recognises junior drivers. 

Sonia Gibbons was a worthy recipient of The Densley Trophy for her efforts working with the Classic Touring Car Racing Club, with Junior Saloon Car Championship Coordinator Dave Beecroft being bestowed The Gerry Marshall Trophy. 

Special presentations were also made to Kumho BMW Championship stalwart Trevor Ford and Legends Cars Championship Coordinator Phil Cooper, both of whom are moving onto new pastures this coming season. 

“It was once again another fantastic evening,” lauded BARC CEO Taylor. “Although this event is to honour our champions, it’s also for our members and the people that play their part in making the BARC what it is.

“What I really like about this event is that we have taken it from being an awards ceremony to being a sort of a celebration of the BARC as a whole. I wanted to make it feel more than just presenting trophies because those that are involved deserve to be recognised for their efforts behind the scenes just as much.

“Sitting at the start of 2024 you try to take stock of last year and it does feel like a long time ago. It was another successful year for the Group though with competitor numbers being up on our grids, spectator numbers being up at our circuits and the circuits as a whole having strong years. 

“Heading into this season we hope that that all continues in the same vein however you never quite know how things will pan out. I’m sure it will be another fantastic year for everyone.”

Elsewhere, more than ÂŁ1350 was raised during the annual raffle for the BARC Marshal and Rescue Fund – which included prizes such as a Draper Tools Set, tickets to the British Touring Car Championship and Demon Weeks voucher.

BARC Award Winners:

The Sir Clive Bossom Trophy – Adam Weeden

The Peter Harris Trophy – Zena Wooller 

BARC Marshal of the Year – Steve Bemrose

The Densley Trophy – Sonia Gibbons

The Gerry Marshall Trophy – Dave Beecroft

The Peter Collins Trophy – Louis Sharp

The President’s Cup – Dan Zelos

2023 Connaught Competition Engines BARC Speed Champion – Matt Bramall 

2023 2CV Parts.com Champion – Kris Tovey

2023 CNC Heads Sports/Saloon Car Champion – Ian Bamber

2023 Kumho BMW Champion – Kevin Denwood

2023 OT Publishing Coupe Cup with Toyo Tires Winner – Luca Staccini Anzanello

2023 Lancaster Insurance MG Owners Club Champion – William Sharpe

2023 Junior Saloon Car Champion – Daire Flock

2023 ROWE Britcar Trophy Champion – Rhys Lloyd & Jack Meakin

2023 Pickup Truck Racing Champion – Reece Jones

2023 Morphmy Caterham Graduates Champion: Sigma 135 – Ben Wheatley

2023 Morphmy Caterham Graduates Champion: Sigma 150 – Harry Senior

2023 Morphmy Caterham Graduates Champion: Sigmax – Daniel Livingstone

2023 Mission Motorsport Caterham 270R Champion – Freddie Chiddicks

2023 Motul Caterham 310R Champion – Jack Sales

2023 Adrian Flux Caterham Academy Champion: Green Group – Nick Highton

2023 Adrian Flux Caterham Academy Champion: White Group – Daniel Neale

2023 Vertex Caterham Roadsport Champion – Ben Timmons

2023 Avon Tyres Caterham Seven UK Champion – Lewis Thompson 

2023 Classic Touring Car Racing Club: Jaguar Challenge Champion – Guy Connew

2023 Classic Touring Car Racing Club: Pre-66 Touring Cars Champion – Billy Kenneally

2023 Classic Touring Car Racing Club: Pre-83 Touring Cars Champion- Stephen Primett

2023 Classic Touring Car Racing Club: Pre-93 Touring Cars Champion – Stuart Waite

2023 Classic Touring Car Racing Club: Pre-03 Touring Cars Champion – Gary Prebble

2023 Classic Touring Car Racing Club: Blue Oval Saloon Series Champion – James Dunkley

2023 Classic Touring Car Racing Club: Classic Thunder Champion – Nick Vaughan

2023 Classic Touring Car Racing Club: Laser Tools Super Tourers Champion – Jason Hughes

2023 Legends Cars Championship with AllGrowth Ltd Champion – Will Gibson

2023 Legends Cars Elite Cup with JLM Lubricants Champion – Connor Mills

2023 MINI CHALLENGE Clubsport with Airtec Motorsport Winner – Stephen Berry

2023 Vertu Motors MINI CHALLENGE Trophy Champion – Tom Ovenden

2023 Vertu Motors MINI CHALLENGE JCW Champion – Dan Zelos

2023 Porsche Sprint Challenge Great Britain Champion – Joe Warhurst

2023 Porsche Carrera Cup Great Britain Champion – Adam Smalley

2023 British Hillclimb Champion – Wallace Menzies

2023 British Truck Racing Champion: Division 1 – Ryan Smith

2023 British Truck Racing Champion: Division 2 – Paul Rivett

2023 British Endurance Champions – Bradley Thurston & Daryl Deleon

2023 ROKiT F4 British Champion – Louis Sharp

2023 Kwik Fit British Touring Car Champion – Ash Sutton

Albert Webster wins inaugural Vertu MINI CHALLENGE Scholarship

Albert Webster has been named the inaugural winner of the Vertu MINI CHALLENGE Scholarship – taking the top prize worth more than ÂŁ50,000.

The 18-year-old saw off the challenge of more than 100 drivers across the three stages of the competition, earning him prize that includes an entry, car hire, fuel, brakes and tyres for the all-new JCW Sport class that is being introduced for 2024.

Capital Karts in London provided the backdrop to stage one of the competition prior to Christmas before those chosen to progress to stage two descended on Croft Circuit where they able to get to grips with a MINI CHALLENGE Trophy car.

A total of 20 drivers were chosen to compete in the final a day later and sample the new JCW Sport car before judges adjourned to pick their winner, with Webster ultimately coming out on top. 

“I didn’t believe it when my name was called as there were loads of good drivers here, and I expected someone else to win,” said Webster.

“I’ve got a long drive home so it might sink in by then, but this is a great opportunity for anyone. It sounds awesome to be named as the Scholarship winner and I can’t wait to get going.”

While Webster claimed the top prize, Harri Reynolds secured runner-up laurels and with it netted a £7,000 contribution to his 2024 racing programme courtesy off Alliance Racing and NAPA Racing UK. 

ROKiT extends British F4 title sponsorship for another season

ROKiT have announced that they will continue to sponsor the F4 British Championship certified by FIA for a third straight season.

Continuing a partnership that began back in 2022, the single seater series has established itself as one of the most competitive first steps on the ladder to Formula 1 in the world – with 2024 shaping up to be another historic year.

“Supporting the ROKiT British F4 Championship is not only a great pleasure for us, but it’s also a privilege to help develop and nurture the racing talent of tomorrow,” said Jonathan Kendrick, Chairman and co-Founder of the ROKiT Group of Companies.

“We are delighted to continue our partnership again, not only with British F4 but also with our very own driver, Deagen Fairclough, who will continue racing in the championship having finished in a brilliant 3rd place in his debut year last season.

“This season will be bigger than ever and we’re already looking forward to the first race weekend at Donington Park on the 27th and 28th April.”

Eve Lake-Grange, ROKiT F4 Championship Manager, added: “ROKiT have been a fabulous and supportive championship title partner these past two years and we are delighted they are continuing into the 2024 season.

“From the start of our partnership, ROKiT explained that the equality and diversity that British F4 offers has always been part of the attraction of the series and we are delighted that as our championship grid develops for the season, we already have seven nationalities and three female drivers represented.

“We look forward to further elevating the profile of ROKiT British F4 in the year ahead with their support.”

Goodwood reveals theme for 2024 Festival of Speed

Goodwood has revealed the theme for this year’s Festival of Speed presented by Mastercard, which is scheduled to take place from Thursday 11th July through to Sunday 14th July.

Celebrating the timeline of propulsion, the 2024 theme ‘Horseless to Hybrid – Revolutions in Power’ will celebrate the evolution of the motor industry, from the very earliest days of the ‘horseless carriage’ to today’s more sustainable sources of power.

Set to cover a timeline of more than 130 years, the West Sussex venue will back in awe of the progress that has been made within the motor industry, as well as looking at what the future holds too. 

This theme of celebration is poised to be a central pillar across all aspects of this year’s Festival of Speed, from the action on the world-famous Hill to to the exhibits within the Future Lab presented by Randox and Electric Avenue.

The central theme of the 2024 Festival of Speed will be supplemented throughout the weekend by several other major celebrations for Niki Lauda, the legendary Shadow team, Joest Racing, and many more.

BARC takes centre stage at star-studded Autosport International

The British Automobile Racing Club lifted the curtain on the 2024 motorsport season in style last week (January 11-14) after taking centre stage at Autosport International in Birmingham. 

Serving as the perfect launchpad for what promises to be another year of top-draw racing, tens of thousands of enthusiastic fans and industry leaders descended on the NEC Arena across all four days to soak 

Making a triumphant return to what is dubbed as Europe’s biggest motorsport show, the BARC stood out from the crowd with a striking stand that welcomed drivers, marshals, officials, co-ordinators and fans aplenty. 

Adorning the stand were a multitude of cars too; solidifying the diversity that the Club offers when it comes to going racing in the UK.

Team BRIT’s British Endurance Championship McLaren garnered plenty of attention while last year’s Britcar Trophy title-winning machine, Dragon Sport’s Renault Clio, also proved to be a real head-turner. 

In addition, the Junior Saloon Car Championship, Track Action, Classic Touring Car Racing Club and the Vertu MINI CHALLENGE JCW were also well-represented as well throughout both the trade and public admission days.

Paul Graham-Fielding, BARC Group Head of Marketing & Communications, said: “The bustling BARC stand wasn’t just an exhibition; it was a vibrant hub where the club’s diverse championships came together, showcasing the incredible world of racing opportunities under the BARC banner. 

“Autosport International 2024 wasn’t just a successful showcase; it was a reaffirmation of BARC’s vital role in UK motorsport.”

Laura Payne appointed JSCC Race Meeting Coordinator

The Junior Saloon Car Championship has announced that Laura Payne will take on the role of Race Meeting Coordinator for the 2024 season and beyond.

Payne joins the popular one-make series for teenage drivers having previously been Coordinator for both the BRSCC Fiesta Junior Championship and Airtec Motorsport Fiesta ST240 Championship.

The forthcoming campaign is set to be a milestone one for the JSCC as it celebrates its 10th Anniversary; with a bumper grid already expected to embark on a nine-meeting schedule.

“I’m excited for a new challenge and grateful that the JSCC have put their trust in me,” commented Payne.

“There’s no denying that 2024 and beyond will be big years for the championship and I can’t wait to play my part in it all.”

Championship Manager, Beecroft, added: “Laura brings a wealth of experience to us and will no doubt bolster the existing team we already have in place.

“We’re very fortunate that Laura has chosen to be a part of our growing team.”

The 2024 Junior Saloon Car Championship season commences at Brands Hatch on March 31-April 1.

SIM Motorsport announced as new title sponsors of Caterham Graduates

SIM Motorsport has announced an exciting new partnership with the Caterham Graduates Racing Club, which will see them named as title sponsors for the 2024 season. 

As operators of the UK’s ultimate race car simulator experience centres, this collaboration further solidifies SIM Motorsport’s commitment to making motorsport available and accessible to everyone.

“We are elated to take the helm as the title sponsor for CGRC, a fantastic organisation that shares our passion for the thrill of motorsport,” said Rob Oldland, Commercial Director of SIM Motorsport.

“This collaboration represents a perfect fusion of virtual and real-world racing, and we look forward to exploring the exciting opportunities it affords.”

Matthew Willoughby, CGRC Club Chairman, added: “We’re thrilled to welcome SIM Motorsport as our title sponsor. Their approach to motorsport and their wide range of offerings – providing fun, inclusive, competitive and cost effective racing for everyone, novice or otherwise – absolutely aligns with the values and spirit of the club.”

The 2024 SIM Motorsport Caterham Graduates Championship commences at Brands Hatch over the Easter bank holiday weekend, 31 March – 1 April.

BARC to kick off new year at Autosport International Show

The British Automobile Racing Club is poised to kick off the new year in style after confirming its presence at the upcoming Autosport International Show. 

Taking place at the NEC Arena in Birmingham between January 11-14, the four-day show will serve as the perfect launchpad for another year of national and international racing, with thousands of industry experts and fans set to attend.

Making a triumphant return to Europe’s biggest motorsport show for the first time since 2019, the Club will be situated in Hall 3 on Stand 3450.

Showcasing a variety of cars as well as an eye-catching stand, information on all of the Club’s championships, marshal initiatives, venues, membership and much more will be able to be discussed at the event.

Paul Graham-Fielding, BARC Group Head of Marketing & Communications, said: “At Autosport International 2024, the British Automobile Racing Club isn’t just about showcasing cars, it’s about celebrating and growing the community that fuels our sport.

“For the BARC, it’s a chance to showcase our rich heritage and our wide variety of championships. We hope to identify new partnerships, new motorsport talent and continue to grow motorsport in the UK.”

2024 BARC race meetings now available to view

The British Automobile Racing Club is poised for a blockbuster 2024 motorsport season, with all race meetings and marshal training days now available to view online.  

Following on from a hugely successful 2023 campaign, the Club has unveiled a bumper bill of race meetings which will see championships undoubtedly deliver edge-of-the-seat entertainment across the length and breadth of the UK between the months of March and November. 

Categories such as the Kwik Fit British Touring Car Championship, British Truck Racing Championship, British Endurance Championship, British Hillclimb Championship and Classic Touring Car Racing Club, plus many more, are just some of the series that are set to take centre stage. 

In addition to running more than 50 race meetings, the Club will continue to take up its customary operational and organisational role across all three Goodwood events; the 81st Members’ Meeting, Festival of Speed and Revival. 

BARC launches 2024 Officials Recruitment Drive

Do you work effectively as a leader and/or a member of a team? Are you a good communicator? Do you possess great listening and management skills?

The British Automobile Racing Club is currently recruiting ahead of the 2024 season for the following roles:

Event Secretaries

Event Stewards

Race Phones / Radio Communications Personnel

Chief Observers / Deputy Chief Observers

Chief Incident Officers / Deputy Chief Incident Officers

Chief Marshals / Deputy Chief Marshals

Rescue Crew

Safety Car Observer

Safety Car Drivers

Fire Car Crew

Scrutineers

Clerk of the Course

Do you have what it takes to fulfil these roles?

If the answer is yes then please send a brief email to officials@barc.net using BARC Officials Recruitment Drive as the Subject Line and stating which of the roles you would like to be considered for and why.

The Club does not expect successful candidates to jump into these roles immediately. The relevant training and mentoring will be provided.