Car enthusiasts sought for classic revival
For Dave Ingram, it’s only ever been a Jaguar.
The classic car brand build his vehicles of choice. He has owned around ten of them over the years.
‘‘I bought my first Jag in 1982, and I’ve been around Jags ever since and have had a fair bit to do with them.
‘‘It’s the people you meet and the places you go. If it’s a Jag, it’s cool.’’
Ingram and friend Paul Corboy are wanting to revive the Waikato Jaguar Car Club.
The Hamilton club folded 15 years ago, Corboy said.
‘‘I started off in Nelson and when we came here, you hunt out the Jags. I’ve known Paul for a long time,’’ Ingram said.
He owns a Jaguar 1957 Mark VII M. He purchased it as a relic from Hokitika more than 20 years ago.
‘‘It had a dead engine,’’ he said. But still Ingram managed to race with it.
‘‘I don’t know anything different. It’s the only racing car I’ve
‘‘It's the people you meet and the places you go. If it's a Jag, it's cool.’’
had, but I love it. I’d race it every week if I could.’’
He also owns a Jaguar 2000 XKR Convertible.
‘‘This is the long-distance, roll out for a cruise, while the (Mark) is harsh on the road.’’
A meeting on October 15 will call for a formation of a working committee to help start the club up, Ingram said.
Then a treasurer, secretary and president.
Over Easter 2018, there is a Jag National Rally in Invercargill that Ingram is set to attend.
He is one of only four people in New Zealand who have attended every rally since the first one in 1982.
‘‘It’s a bit like a school reunion,’’ he said.
Ingram hopes the club accumulates enthusiasm enough to get a contingent together to attend the next rally.
‘‘We’re looking for a new generation of people. We’re also trying to incorporate women into it as well. It’s not just about going to car sheds.’’
Corboy agreed. He owns a 1966 Jaguar S Type.
‘‘The young ones aren’t coming through. They don’t seem to be interested in classic cars anymore, and all the car clubs are struggling for membership.’’
Any Jaguar enthusiasts, with or without a car, can contact stewartventures@kinect.co.nz or hawkeye@xtra.co.nz.