MOMENTUM GATHERS BEHIND TIN-TOP CATEGORIES AHEAD OF 2023 SEASON
Vince Woodman and Gerry Marshall Trophies gaining huge support
Interest in racing for the Group 1 touring cars of the 1970s and early 1980s continues to build following the announcement of two new races series for the cars in 2023.
Automobiles Historiques, the organisation behind the GT and Sports Car Cup, reports strong support for its inaugural Vince Woodman Trophy race for Pre1983 Group 1 Touring Cars at the Castle Combe Autumn Classic on September 24.
Meanwhile the Historic Racing Drivers Club ran a pilot race for its Gerry Marshall series at Snetterton in June and drew an impressive 29-car grid. There is a chance of a second pilot race later this season before a fuller programme in 2023.
The response to the Vince Woodman race is already strong with confirmed entries including a host of Chevrolet Camaros, three-litre Ford Capris, Rover SD1s and a Ford Escort RS2000.
“We are confident of attracting a field in the mid-20s for the 45-minute one- or two-driver pitstop race,” said co-founders Flavien and Vanessa Marcais. “That’s encouraging, but as Castle Combe can start 42 saloons there is availability to join the grid. Our aim is to put on a show for the Woodman family and the spectators.”
The late Woodman, whose family is supporting the event, won 12 British Saloon Car Championship races in his career, in both Camaros and Capris. The Bristol-based Ford dealer also scored 27 victories at his local Combe track, ranging from 1965 in a Lotus Cortina to 2008 in his Cologne Capri.