This year’s Race Retro event will pay a unique tribute to British racing driver Mike Hawthorn and the achievements of the Le Mans 24 Hour race when it takes place at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire, from February 22-24.
It’s now 60 years since Mike Hawthorn’s death at the tragically young age of 29, so the Motor Sport Hall of fame will pay homage with a bespoke showcase featuring both cars and artefacts from the Yorkshireman’s career. Born in 1929, he would go on to drive for Ferrari, BRM and Vanwall, but died in January 1959 when the Jaguar 3.4 saloon he was driving left the road near Guildford in Surrey.
Cars on display are set to include the D-Type Jaguar that renowned collector, Nigel Webb, rebuilt using the chassis from the 1955 Le Mans winning car, plus the Lotus Eleven that Hawthorn raced in period. There will also be a wonderful array of memorabilia including a selection of the driver’s gold medals, a steering wheel from one of his Ferrari Formula One cars, and plenty more. “Mike Hawthorn’s contribution to the world of motor sport should never be forgotten,” said Acting Show Director, Lee Masters. “The epitome of the English gentleman and a fantastically competitive racer, that 60 years have passed since his death makes this tribute all the more special.”
The Hall of Fame will also pay homage to 95 years of the Le Mans 24 Hour endurance race, which is organised by the Automobile Club de l’Ouest and was first run in 1923. As well as tributes to the drivers and the machines that have created so many memories at La Sarthe, the display will feature an exciting line-up of Le Mans racers with some very special displays planned. One must-see car is the Audi R8C – Audi made its debut at the 24-hour race in 1999 with R8s finishing in third and fourth places, and it would go on to take overall victory on 13 occasions.
The Hall of Fame will include other racing and rally cars too, plus a number of key special guests, many of whom will be interviewed on stage. But that’s far from all. Race Retro will welcome motor sport industry race series, rally organisers and specialist traders amongst its halls, along with live rally action over the weekend from Rallying with Group B. Silverstone Auctions will also host its Race Retro Classic Car Sale.
Adult tickets begin at £22, with discounts for group bookings and multiple days, plus free parking for all visitors. For the latest updates and ticket information, visit www.raceretro.com.
