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Maserati GranTurismo MC test, Valencia James Wood and Quirina Louwman will test the GranTurismo MC in Valencia. Maserati Corse are holding a two-day test ahead of the 2010 season; the car comes in two spec.s, the Trofeo and GT4 (FIA). Veteran Debut - London to Brighton, "Genevieve" James Wood made his debut on a Veteran car on Sunday, 1st November. James was co-driving with Quirina Louwman aboard 'Genevieve', the 1904 Darracq which featured in the 1952 film of this name, which is part of the Louwman Collection. The car ran faultlessly from start-to-finish despite the atrocious conditions. Thanks must go to the organisers and sponsors, particularly the Royal Autombile Club (RAC), Veteran Car Club (VCC), Hagerty Insurance and Bonhams for their hospitality throughout. Special thanks must go to Mr. Evert Louwman for making it possible. www.royalautomobileclub.co.uk www.vccofgb.co.uk www.bonhams.com www.hagertyinsurance.co.uk London-Brighton, Louwman entries Quirina Louwman is no stranger to the event, having previously particpated eighteen times, often driving Genevieve. She had also done 'the Run' in a 1904 Napier racing car, driven by her father. Evert Louwman, father of Quirina, was driving a Peugeot from 1895 this year, was the first car to leave London's Hyde Park; being the oldest car taking part, the Louwman Collection-entered Peugeot was car no. 1. Eric Louwman, Quirina's cousin, also participated, driving a 1904 Ford. These three are just three examples of the cars in the fascinating and extensive Louwman Collection (below). www.louwmancollection.nl London-Brighton - Wood family James Wood was not the only family member to participate this year. John Wood, former MD of MIRA, Chairman of the Shelsley (Walsh) Trust and cousin of James, drove a 1900 Simms. Further, John's his uncle Jim King entered his 1902 Stanley Steamer which he has used for over fifty years. Louwman Collection The Collection is an incredible range of motor vehicles, ranging from the first cars (Veterans) to Le Mans-winning cars (Lagonda and Jaguar D-Type), Grand Prix Maseratis and Ferraris, Can-Am and GTP Toyotas to motorbikes and buses; the Collection also includes some aircraft, planes and even a Zepelin. See: www.louwmancollection.nl Maserati Trofeo 2010 Maserati Corse, the motorsport arm of Masrati S.p.A., have launched their new Trofeo race car, the 'GranTurismo MC', as well as the GT4 model. see: Maserati Trofeo Phil Packer - Pride of Britain Major Phil Packer was presented with the 'Pride of Britain, Fundraiser of the Year' award at a gala ceremony in Ocotber 2009. This acknowledged Phil's tireless work fundraising for others whilst he himself was still recovering from a spinal cord injury. This presentation raised the room to their feet in a standing ovation. For full coverage see Phil's official website: www.philpacker.com Nogaro - Morgan in GTSCC James Wood drove with John Emberson in the GTSCC race at Nogaro on October 2nd, 3rd; despite having tonsillitis, James completed his one hour stint on the pace and the pair finished well. Spa 6 Hours - busy but successful The Spa 6 Hours meeting was a busy but successful event for James Wood with five races including sharing the Invicta with his father Bob in the 'Barry One Hour'. This was enjoyed by both, given it was thirty years since Bob had attended the first event on the 'new' Spa circuit, accompanied by James, aged seven. James also shared the Alfa Sprint GT with Quirina Louwman (U2TC) and had three races with Jim Woodley; Ford Galaxie 500 (Top Hat Masters) and the Lotus 17 (BRDC Sportscars and GT and Sports Masters). Jamie McIntyre took pole and finished third, sharing the Lister Chevrolet with Laurie Kilby. Ewan McIntyre started won the BRDC race having started second on the grid next to his elder brother. Jarrah Venables was also in the U2TC race, sharing a Mini with Roger Wills after the Lotus Cortina. Spa-Francorchamps - threat of closure All involved were fortunate to compete after the circuit was threatened with closure from the Wednesday due to Green party and environmentalists' raised objections with the Belgian Parliament. This threat is still very real; www.defendonsfrancorchamps.be Goodwood - Phil Packer Phil Packer attended the Goodwood Revival for the first time as a guest of Goodwood and visited the paddock a few times. James Wood showed Phil around the cars, explaining their design and history, as well as meet some of those involved. James and Phil also further discussed plans to get Phil behind the wheel of a racing car, as well as Phil's plans for his new challenge of setting-up BRIT, the British Inspiration Trust. Phil Packer - Pride of Britain Major Phil Packer was told he would never walk again after being injured in Iraq in 2008 yet has made an incredible recovery through determination and outstanding support from the public and medical specialists and has raised over £1.2 million for the charity Help for Heroes. www.philpacker.com www.helpforheroes.org Goodwood Revival 2009 - Paddins podium Paddins Dowling drove brilliantly to finish second in the Goodwood Trophy at the Revival meeting. Dowling, driving ERA R10B, recovered from a poor start to finish right on the tail of Ludovic Lindsay in the ERA 'Remus', setting a faster laptime than Lindsay on the way. Bob Wood returns to Goodwood Bob Wood raced at the Goodwood Revival, driving the same 1932 Invicta 'Low Chassis' he raced there several times between 1961 and '64, when he had also raced the single-seat 'Semmence Special'. Bob was in the Brooklands Trophy, as was Stephen Curtis in the 1934 Talbot 105 'BGH 22'. Victory for Paddins at Monterey Historics 2009 Paddins Dowling won from pole at Laguna Seca driving ERA R2A. The convincing result meant a 1-2 for Mary Smith who owns both this ERA and the Maserati 4CL which finished second. Dowling's lead was never threatened once in front; the Maserati had passed at the start when Paddins suffered from a misfire. This soon cleared and the Irishman set-about passing the Mark Gillies-driven Maserati. Pebble Beach - Bentley, Governor Schwarzenegger James Wood was overwhelmed by the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. This was the first time he had attended and was amazed by many aspects of the event, not least the sense of luxury and show. James was fortunate to be a guest of Bentley, a major sponsor of the event. Bentley launched their new model, the Mulsanne, on the Sunday afternoon. Arnold Schwarzenegger, Governor of California, spent time in Bentley before opengin the Awards presentation ceremony. Laguna Seca - Monterey Historics 2009 - Paddins on pole James Wood will be at the Monterey Historics at Laguna Seca as well as Pebble Beach for the concours d'elegance. Paddins Dowling will race ERA R2A, with which he claimed pole at the Laguna Seca 'Pre-Historics' event on August 8-9th. Silverstone Classic 2009 James Wood, Rupert Wood, Jamie McIntyre, Ewan McIntyre, James Bilderbeck, Jarrah Venables and Will I'Anson all raced at the 2009 Classic. Quirina Louwman also raced, making her Silverstone race debut, sharing her Alfa Romeo Sprint GT with James Wood and nearly matching his laptimes lap after lap. McIntyres fly Jamie and Ewan McIntyre both had superb drives; Jamie finished 3rd having started from the pitlane and making an additional pitstop during the safety car period. Ewan finished 16th (out of 45) despite having lost several laps due to a broken gearlever. James Bilderbeck and James Wood gave the former's Turner Climax GT its first outing after a full rebuild. The car posted very respectable times which shows huge promise for the future. Gulf Mirage - D Bell, J Wood James Wood drove the beautiful 1974 Gulf Mirage GR7 at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. James shared the driving duties with Derek Bell was also driving the Porsche 917/30 in the same group. Vern Schuppan, another of the Mirage's original drivers was also unable due to commitments in two other Porsche 917s. Both had raced Mirages at Le Mans, Schuppan finishing 4th and Bell and Ickx won in 1975. James Wood greatly enjoyed driving the car, with its iconic shape and Gulf livery and Cosworth DFV engine. Tesla World Debut - James Wood to drive James Wood will drive the Tesla Roadster Sports at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. Launched on Thursday 25th June, 2009, Goodwood will be the car's first public outing. July 3-5th - News items to follow www.teslamotors.com Goodwood Festival of Speed 2009 James Wood will drive the ex-Elford/Neerpasch/Hermann prototype Porsche 911-R as well as the new Tesla, which he will demonstrate in the Supercar Run. 50,000 people are expected per day to see the cars, bikes and planes as well their hero drivers and riders. Jenson Button will demonstrate the Brawn and Lewis Hamilton the McLaren in which he won the 2008 F1 World Championship. Many other current F1, Le Mans, WRC drivers and Superbike/MotoGP riders will also participate. July 3-5th - News items to follow www.goodwood.co.uk LM 24h 2009 June 13-14th - News items to follow Spa 6h 2009 - Wood-Wood-Whyte June 13-14th - News items to follow > Back to Top Octane Feature Click here to read.
LM 24h suport race - Ewan McIntyre June 13th - News item to follow Monza Coppa Intereuropa James Wood drove the famous 'Hairy Canary', 1963 AC Shelby Cobra. Rupert Wood drove his 1957 Cooper T43 as well as the Lotus 17 with Jim Woodley. June 5-7th - full news item to follow > Back to Homepage Pau GP Historique 2009 May 22-24th - Paddins Dowling will contest the early Grand Prix car race at Pau in ERA R10B. The Cooper-Buick is unfortunately unable to go due to a suspension problem which cannot be resolved in time. James Wood will not travel although Stephen Curtis will, accompanying Paddins. AMOC Silverstone Jamie and Ewan McIntyre will contest the '50s sportscar race at Silverstone on 29-30th May, in their Lister Chevrolet and Lotus 15 respectively. Octane at Goodwood Octane Magazine hosted a wonderful trackday at Goodwood on 7th May. Well attended, the day had plenty of tracktime, interesting cars and good hospitality. James Wood was coaching Quirina Louwman in her Alfa Sprint GT (just back from winning the Coupe des Dames on the Tour Auto). Rupert Wood was there enjoying his MGB racecar and gaining more experience of the circuit. Robert Coucher, Editor of Octane, took the opportunity of a coaching session with James; he admitted to learning a great deal and has booked more for the year ahead (see upcoming Octane Editorial). >> Octane Magazine Silverstone Classic Media Day The 2009 Silverstone Classic looks set to be an action-packed festival in July if the recent Media Day is anything to go by. To be staged over the weekend of 24-26th July, there will be huge concerts each evening as well as intense racing on-track. Santana is headlining Saturday's gig whilst the Pussy Cat Dolls and Blue are amongst acts performing on Friday. Rupert Wood tested the Widi for the first time since a major rebuild as well as his Cooper T43. James Wood also drove these but was had other driving duties, testing a Morgan Plus 4 and the Frazer Nash LM Coupe. www.silverstoneclassic.com Cozmo Jenks 2009 Cozmo Jenks, the car-loving milliner, is preparing for a busy year at her new HQ, having relocated to Dorset. Cozmo is now allied to Goodwood, whose elegant sporting events lend themselves perfectly to her hats. As the flat horse racing season gets underway, so does the wedding season not to mention motor sport and other occasions. Cozmo is also designing some bespoke helmet decoration as she has already for James Wood, Rupert Wood and Joe Twyman. Goodwood FoS - Racecars, Supercars James Wood has been invited to drive in both the racecar category and Supercar Run at the 2009 Goodwood Festival of Speed. The ex-Elford/Hermann/Neerpasch 911-R is one racecar confirmed; the Supercar manufacturer is to be confirmed once official. James will again represent Dunhill and host some of their VIP guests. www.goodwood.co.uk Ferrari coaching and experience James Wood will continue to provide coaching and guests demonstration laps with Ferrari Track & Race Days. www.ferraritrackday.com Turner back on track - GT James Bilderbeck will return to the track in 2009 with his 1962 Turner Mk II. Mark Lewis will have completed the full rebuild, returning the cart to its correct FIA specification. This will include a hardtop and full windscreen as a GT; it will also be able to run as a sportscar with just an aeroscreen. Octane trackday at Goodwood on 7th May should be the first public outing prior to racing in the GTSCC race at Silverstone on May 10th. James Wood has been asked to co-drive. Goodwood Media Day The 2009 Goodwood Festival of Speed looks set to be another outstanding event, if the recent Media Day is anything to go by. A superb selection of cars, bikes and drivers/riders ascended the Hill in beautiful sunshine. Media and sponsors had the chance to passenger in many of the sports and GT cars. - James Wood drove the ex-Elford, Nurburgring-winning Porsche 911-R prototype, while Stephen Curtis drove his 1934 Talbot 105 'Alpine Trial' car. Both featured on the BBC evening news: www.bbc.co.uk Snetterton Podium - 3rd gear James Wood strarted his 2009 race programe with a podium finish despite having only 3rd gear. Wood, sharing with Bill Wykeham, was driving a well-known Ford Mustang which recently came over from New Zealand. It was the car's first ever European outing and otherwise ran perfectly. The gearlinkage failed during Wykeham's stint, handing over to Wood at the 30mins mark; unable to select a gear after the driver-change, John Freeman (running the car) selected 3rd gear directly into the gearbox from underneath the car. Completing the remaining 29minuntes in one gear, Wood managed to bring the car home without losing too much time (lapping 3-4secs of their designated race-pace. The Wykeham-Wood pairing brought the Fleetwood Motors Mustang were classified 3rd in class, 5th overall. Jodie Kidd Golf 2009 - Goodwood The date has been confirmed as Monday, 13th July. Many of the players in the previous events hope to attend. For more information, visit; www.thejodiekiddfoundation.co.uk Cooper Buick New to the team is the ex-Briggs Cunningham, 1961 Cooper Monaco T61 sports-racing car. The factory shipped the car straight to the USA for Bruce McLaren, who ran it with its 2.7litre Climax engine before taking the engine on to New Zealand to run in the Tasman series. Cunningham then fitted a 3.5litre Buick V8 and the car won may major races from 1961-1963. Stephen Curtis recently bought the car after a satisfactor test (see photos) and plans to compete in events throughout 2009 and on. Winter Testing - Maserati 150S James Wood braved the freezing conditions in an open racecar to start a coaching programme. James was at Silverstone on 10th January in minus 4c, driving an ex-Works Maserati 150S/200S. Goodwood victory - "manoeuvre of the event" Jamie McIntyre won a nail-biting race to claim the Sussex Trophy at the Goodwood Revival. McIntyre lead the opening lap from pole before Barry 'Whizzo' Williams managed to pass in the Tojeiro-Jaguar; Mark Hales was snapping at their heels in the Costin bodied Lister-Jaguar. McIntyre repassed Williams before losing two places at Woodcote corner when caught out closing on a backmarker. The Scot managed to retake the lead in one move, going three-abreast through Fordwater, which was described by Autosport's Marcus Pye as "the overtaking manoeuvre of the event". Holding the lead to end, Jamie took a well-earned victory, being the only owner-driver at the front of the grid. Fourth was Jean-Marc Gounon in Sir Anthony Bamford's Ferrari 196/246S. Spa 6h weekend Spa will host its annual 6 Hour race meeting on 25-28th September. Rupert Wood, Jamie McIntyre, Ewan McIntyre and Will I'Anson will all be there. In the BRDC Sportscar race, McIntyre J and E will be in Lister and Lotus 15 respectively, driving solo, whilst Rupert Wood will share Jim Woodley's Lotus 17. Rupert will also share Rupert Whyte's Ford Anglia in the U2TC race and Will I'Anson James Lindsay's Porsche 904. James Wood expects to be there, testing, on the Thursday but will return to the UK for other commitments over the weekend. Goodwood Revival - 10th and 60th Goodwood will celebrate the 10th Anniversary of the Revival race meeting as well as the 60th Anniversary of its inception as a motor racing circuit over the weekend of 19th-21st September. James Wood will be part of this, racing the Le Mans Coupe Frazer Nash in the Fordwater Trophy on the Sunday morning. In period style, he will be wearing a new Cozmo Jenks trilby. www.goodwood.co.uk/revival Cozmo Jenks to judge Revival Style Cozmo Jenks, milliner and passionate motorsport enthusiast, will be at the Revival as a guest of the Earl and Countess of March as well as cheering-on James Wood. Cozmo will be observing people's dress over the weekend as part of her role a judge of Style; awards will be presented on the Sunday. www.cozmojenks.co.uk ING Fresh Eyes 2008 - dates Fresh Eyes, the ING F1-charity art programme, promises to be an excellent collection. Things are well underway on the works for the races so far, some of which are already completed. Sir Peter Blake, Jason Brooks and Marta Marce are just some of the artists painting their impressions of F1 from their visits to the Grand Prix they visited with ING Renault F1. The Gallery will open 21/11/08, from when the 2008 can be bought not just viewed. www.ingfresheyes.com Paddins on pole at Monterey Historics Paddins Dowling shone at Laguna Seca where he drove ERA R3A for the first time. Mary Smith had asked the California-based Irishman to drive the car previously driven by her late husband, Rodney. Suspension problems ended Paddins' race early but fortunately he realised the problem worsening before damage was done. David Morris also went well, driving a Maserati 4CL also belonging to Mary Smith, although an overheating forced a pitstop losing him his second place. > Back to Menu Nurburgring - Oldtimer GP The Nurburgring played host to a superb race meeting on 8-10th August. The AvD Oldtimer GP, created in 1973 by Hubertus Doenhoff and Kurt Hammerstein, goes from strength to strength. Doenhoff, who is still heavily involved, is determined to keep passion alive and particularly look after the older cars - and their drivers. Private sessions on the Nordschleife were arranged each morning are something that one can only normally dream of. www.ogpracing.de > Back to Menu Nurburgring - Rossi joins team for Marathon Manfredo Rossi joined Rupert and James Wood in the MG for the AvD Marathon. This 500km race, previously held on the Nordschleife, was staged for the first time on the combined Nordschleife and GP track, as is used for the 24 Hours. Wet weather dominated although there were some dry spells, usually only on parts of the track, and the team brought home trophies for the class result. Manfredo took two podiums in the Grand Prix Masters races, driving his Martini-liveried 1973 F1 Brabham BT42. > Back to Menu Rupert Wood's Lister debut Rupert Wood shared the Lister Chevrolet of Jamie McIntyre in the Nurburgring's Saturday evening 1 hour race which started at dusk. Rupert, who had only ever driven the car for four laps during qualifying, lead the first few laps before being overhauled by the Lotus 19 of Otto Reedtz-Todt. Wood then realised he had not been using full throttle and set fastest lap. As full darkness fell, Rupert handed over to Jamie but a fuel pump problem started at this point. This meant that McIntyre had intermittent use of eight cylinders as the engine kept cutting out. He managed to finish the race although unfortunately only in 9th place. Jamie won the sprint race on the Sunday by a large margin once the fuel pump issue had been rectified by Mark Lewis and team. > Back to Menu Silverstone Classic A fantastic weekend of racing, squadra360 were represented by James Wood, Rupert Wood, Jamie McIntyre, Ewan McIntyre, Will I'Anson, Jarrah Venables and Stephen Curtis. Podiums for Jamie and Ewan McIntyre on Sunday followed silverware for James Wood on the Saturday. Wood was sharing James Lindsay's Porsche 904 which won the under 2 litre class by some margin, James taking twelve places during his 30 minute stint. Rupert Wood enjoyed the Cooper T43 in the pre-66 Grand Prix car race although missed out with the Widi which suffered some damage when it slid uncontrallably on fluid dropped by another car and hit the wall on the pit straight. Wood's co-driver, Rupert Whyte felt like a passenger in the accident but was fortunately unharmed. The car is being rebuilt ready for 2009. At the same time, I'Anson had a good race in the Rejo. Continuing to use the final weekend in July, the event is re-establishing itself as a major international meeting. www.silverstoneclassic.com Jodie's Golf a huge success The Jodie Kidd Golf Classic was again a huge success, raising nearly £100,000 for the charities as well as providing great enjoyment for those involved. Beautiful weather played its part but it was the fun people and stunning setting of Goodwood that really made the day. Thanks are due to Jodie, Lord and Lady March and all at both the Jodie Kidd Foundation / Merlin Elite and Goodwood. Goodwood Festival of Speed - Cars and Cartier James Wood enjoyed an action-packed weekend at the Festival of Speed, along with 150,000 others. James drove a 2008 Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione as well as a 1969 spec Matra MS80 F1 car. James was representing Alfred Dunhill, hosting several of their guests. He also enjoyed beautiful hospitality of Cartier who had kindly invited him to their lunch as part of the Cartier Style et Luxe, the concours d'elegance at the Festival of Speed. Pink Floyd - The Who - Queen as warm-up act The Ball was yet again sensational, started by a trio of rockstar drummers - Nick Mason, Kenny Jones and Roger Taylor - followed by water displays and stunt motorbike - Dougie Lampkin - onstage during the band performances, all framed by fireworks in the background. This blew people away yet the entertainment didn't end there. Before the DJ started, KT Tunstall performed inside. Amazing. Alfa 8C Competizione The Alfa James drove was due to be driven by its owner, Nick Mason, who is an accomplished driver not just a music legend. Nick was also driving an Auto Union Grand Prix car for Audi and as the timing was quite close it relieved some pressure for Wood to drive. Nick's daughter Holly Mason drove on the Friday morning but had other commitments with the ex-Dorset Racing Lola T212. The 8C was admired by everyone at the event and was a privilege to drive not just great fun; this also helped Wood as it meant he could drive Dunhill's guests up the Hill. Many thanks again to Nick Mason and Ten Tenths. Goodwood - Matra-Cosworth MS80 James drove 1969 specification Matra F1 car at the Festival of Speed, a similar car to the one in which Sir Jackie Stewart won the 1969 World Championship. Powered by a Cosworth DFV, the most successful racing engine of all time, the car is simply beautiful to drive - nimble and responsive, James nearly recorded fastest time of the the pre-1971 cars having never sat in the car before - he had even had to slow at the top of the Hill as he had caught the car in front. Thanks to Ron Maydon and Hoole Racing. Hurlingham - Salon Prive The Salon Prive, London event was very well attended. Held from the 2nd-4th July at the Hurlingham Club, the high calibre of displays, hospitality and guests created a wonderful atmosphere. The Concours d'Elegance was closely contested between Jamiroquai frontman Jay Kay and Radio DJ/Entertainer Chris Evans, with beautiful Porsche 356 Cabriolet and Ferrari 250 GT Lusso respectively. The 'Best of Show' award went to the ex-works Le Mans Aston Martin DB3S '62 EMU' entered by Richard Gauntlett. Other stunning entries included an evocative Porsche 917 and a dayglo-orange Lancia Stratos. The art and collectables stands had some very interesting pieces whilst luxury car manufacturers like Maserati and Rolls Royce displayed their latest models. Some noted guests included Rod Stewart, Kenny Jones, Jodie Kidd and Vicki Butler-Henderson. Le Mans 24 Hours James Wood attended the 2008 Le Mans 24 Hours but was unfortunately only able to stay for a few hours but was kindly provided with excellent hospitality by Aston Martin Racing. Wood, who was at the French classic for a number of meetings in the paddock, therefore missed seeing Aston Martin win the GT1 class as well as Dane Tom Kristensen take outright victory for a record eighth time. Jodie Kidd Golf Classic 2008 Jodie Kidd is once again hosting a charity golf day. The 2008 edition of of the Celebrity-VIP event will be at Goodwood on 21st July. The event will raise money for the Jodie Kidd Foundation which donates to the charities closest to Jodie - The Monsoon Accesorize Trust, the NSPCC and Greatwood. Launched in 2007, the inaugural event raised £100,000 for these charities. Not only is there an action-packed day of golf and hospitality but also a Gala Dinner in the ballroom of Goodwood House in the evening. For more information: www.thejodiekiddfoundation.co.uk British Grand Prix 2008 James Wood will attend the 2008 British GP with ING Renault F1. ING are again entertaining media along with artists Sir Peter Blake and Jason Brooks who will be researching and painting their Fresh Eyes works and mentoring the UK competition winner. Jim Woodley will be racing his Ford Galaxie in the Historic support race which will be staged after the F1 race. www.squadra360.com Dijon - Historic weekend Rupert Wood, Jamie McIntyre, Ewan McIntyre, Wil I'Anson and Jim Woodley will all race at Dijon on June 28, 29th. R Wood is sharing the 7 litre Ford Galaxie with Jim Woodley as well as driving the Widi in the BRDC Historic Championship round. Both McIntyres, I'Anson and Woodley are also in the BRDC race, driving Lister Corvette, Lotus XV, Rejo and Lotus 17 respectively. Woodley is also racing the Lotus in the GT & Sportscar Cup mini-enduro over the weekend. Monaco Grand Prix - ING Renault F1 James Wood was back in Monaco for the Grand Prix. James was with ING who are title sponsors of the Renault Formula One team as well as being the primary on-track sponsor of many Grand Prix. James helped host some of ING's guests, adding insight into motorsport and the cars as well as with some of the social plans. James arranged for several guests to ride around the track when it was closed to the public. This rare opportunity was kindly agreed to by Hans van Rennes of Spyker Cars. Fresh Eyes in Monaco - ING Leading British artists Sir Peter Blake and Jason Brooks attended the Monaco Grand Prix with ING as did Russian artist Alexey Chaikasova. Lucy Yeomans, Editor of Harpers Bazaar, and Emma John, Deputy Editor of the Observer Sport Monthly were also part of the ING group. This was part of ING's 'Fresh Eyes' programme (see separate news item). www.ingfresheyes.com Tusk Trust at Donington Tusk Trust will be represented at Donington on April 19, 20th by James Wood and James Lindsay who will share the latter's Porsche 904. Lindsay is a Patron of the charity which Protects Wildlife, Supports Communities and Promotes Education in Central and Southern Africa. www.tusk.org squadra360 at GP EuroSeries ERA R10B - Paddins Dowling Cooper T43 - Bob Wood Cooper T43 - Rupert Wood Cooper T86C - James Wood Ford Mustang - Jarrah Venables Lotus 15 - Ewan McIntyre Lotus 17 - James Wood / Jim Woodley MG B - Rupert Wood / Paddins Dowling Porsche 904 - James Wood / James Lindsay For both Coopers and the ERA it will be a shake-down and test weekend for Monaco (www.acm.mc) Donington GP EuroSeries 2008 The second running of the GP Euro Series event at Donington takes place on the 19-20th April. squadra360 drivers include Paddins Dowling, Ewan McIntyre, Jamie McIntyre, Jarrah Venables, Rupert Wood, Bob Wood and James Wood. Stephen Curtis will also be at the event, looking after Paddins and R10B. www.gpeuroseries.com Monaco - entries confirmed James Wood, Rupert Wood/Bob Wood, Paddins Dowling and Jarrah Venables have all been confirmed to race at the Monaco Grand Prix Historique. This biennal event will take place on May 11, 12th. www.acm.mc Project GTi - 'Guest' car James Wood has been asked to compete in a round of the Golf GTi Championship sponsored by TOYO Tyres. Wood will drive the VIP/Media car having been approached at the Autosport International Show. Paul Cowland, ProMotiv boss, will be competing in his rookie year and reporting for a number of motoring magazine; Wood has already given Cowland some driving tips and was impressed with his speed at a recent Silverstone test. Lotus for E McIntyre Spa 6hours 2007 Spa hosted another brilliant weekend of racing over 5-6 October with multiple races for the Woods and Cook-Beales. Ferrari 250 SWB, Alfa GTA, Alfa Giulietta, Widi and MGB all had entries. The Wood-Wood-White entry in the headline race, the Six Hours, went well for the MG's first outing. Rupert Wood was very pleased; it was his first time in the car as well his first time on-track at night. Rupert Whyte drove immaculately for his stint, enjoying the drive too. J Wood pulled off with just over four minutes remaining having seen oil pressure warning light to come on and pressure to drop; this was later fouond to be simply an oil level issue and pressure surge cornering. The car was still classified having completed over 90% of the race distance and the engine was saved. The Widi ran well in the GT & Sports Endurance Masters, Rupert Wood sharing with Christopher Clark. Clark, who usually drives a Lola Mk1 or Cooper Bobtail was also racing a Jaguar E-Type in the Six Hours. Jeremy Agace had asked James Wood to share the Ferrari 250SWB and Alfa in one race; on the day James swapped with Dean Lanzante, who runs the cars; James drove the GTA with Jeremy in two races whilst Dean just did the single race in the SWB. Le Mans Series, Silverstone - 16.09.07 The Le Mans Series ('LMS') returns to Silverstone for the penultimate round of the 2007 season. Close-fought racing is expected throughout the grid as the top GT and LMP2 teams do battle with some LMP1 cars. www.lemans-series.com Oulton Park - Ferrari Challenge Charlie White hopes to comtinue his winning form at Oulton Park on Saturday 15th September in the Ferrari Challenge race. White will be assisted by Cranfield Motorsport student Oliver Jetson; this will not only put White in the best possible position but also provide invaluable experience for Jetson. Vermeer - Chocolate Celebration Vermeer are having 'A Chocolate Celebration' in London on Wednesday 12th September; the party is co-hosted by Kitts, the nightclub on Sloane Square. A selection of cocktails using Vermeer's vodka-based chocolate and cream liqueur will be served as well other chocolate products in association with The Chocolate Society. Brands Hatch - Ferraris James Wood will again join Charlie White at Brands Hatch to drive his 355 Challenge on Wednesday 12th September. Wood drove the car at Silverstone at the end of August, advising White on driving the International circuit. White went on to win Race 1 and came second in Race 2, hampered when the car's instrumention failed, leaving him without guages so drove more cautiously. Matthew Steeples. MD of Vermeer UK is set to attend and enjoy some passenger laps. White will represent Vermeer for the remainder of the championship. Spa 6h - Wood-Wood-Whyte The Spa 6 Hours is a major endurance race for Historic racing cars, taking place on the world-famous Belgian circuit. Rupert Wood will make his 6hours debut on October 6th, sharing with brother James and another Rupert, Rupert Whyte. Whyte is an accomplished racer in both current and historic cars as well as instructing, mainly at his local Donington Park circuit. Goodwood Revival - team outings Goodwood provided another amazing weekend of close racing and great hospitality, everybody enjoying the atmosphere. J McIntyre, E Mcntyre, P Dowling, W I'Anson, R Wood and J Wood all took to the track with Stephen Curtis looking after Paddins. Bob Wood also came, having raced there several times between 1963-'65. Jarrah Venables was of course there, running the weekend in his rolein the Motorsport Competition department. His father, Philip, raced their Nota F Junior. Honeypot - Goodwood Success 2007 The Honeypot charity raised an amazing £51,000 at their Hog Roast party on the Friday of the Goodwood Revival, thanks to generous support from all who attended. The event, co-hosted by Alain deCadenet, Tony Smith, Angie O'Rourke and David Clark; Clark, who's Birthday fell on the day itself is also CEO and Trustee of the Honeypot. The charity, which provides happy experiences for under-privileged children, was thrilled with the funds raised as a result of individual donations as well as auction and raffle. The Hog Roast was enjoyed enormously by all, with an impressive line-up of entertainment. www.honeypot.co.uk Goodwood Revival 2007 The Goodwood Revival is set to be another stunning event, Rupert Wood, Jamie McIntyre, Ewan McIntyre, William I'Anson, Paddins Dowling and James Wood will all line-up alongside some of the greatest names in motorsport history. www.goodwood.co.uk/revival/ Monaco 2008 The ACM have confirmed their race dates for 2008 - 10,11th May for the Grand Prix Historique and 17,18th for the Grand Prix F1. Entry invitations have already been sent out - James Wood, Stephen Curtis and Paddins Dowling are among those hoping to be there. Portuguese street racing - 12-15.07.07 James Wood, Jim Woodley and Joe Twyman raced at the Gran Premio do Porto. The historic Portguese street circuit had been upgraded to FIA Grade 2 for the WTCC the preceding week - this also allowed it to host the Grand Prix Masters race for pre-78 F1 cars. Wood replaces Patrese in Ferrari GP car James Wood was pleased to stand-in for Riccardo Patrese by driving a Ferrari 246 Dino. James was asked to drive when Patrese, the veteran of a record 256 Grand Prix, realised he was unable to drive in all runs. The beautiful 1960 spec car is managed by Adrian Hamilton for a client of Duncan Hamilton Limited, the Hampshire-based specialist car agent. British GP race Jamie McIntyre will race at Silverstone on July 8th, driving the Lister-Corvette in the Historic support race for pre-1970 sports-racing cars. McIntyre will have a tough time considering the Lister is from 1959 but should be able to keep a number of opponents behind. He is looking forward to again being involved with the event regardless. Brands Hatch Superprix 2007 - 30.06-01.07.07 The Brands Hatch Superprix is set to be an exciting weekend of racing. Using the Grand Prix circuit, the line-up of races includes the BRDC Historic Sportscar Championship and FIA Historic F1 Championship as well as their usual grids. The BRDC race has four team members in it: J. McIntyre (Lister-Chev), E. McIntyre (Rejo), R. Wood (Widi) and W. I'Anson (Rejo). Portugal - Gran Premio do Porto J Wood has been confirmed to race in the Grand Prix Masters race in Portugal. The Gran Premio do Porto will be held over the weekend 13-15th July on the famous street. Goodwood Festival of Speed - 22-24.06.07 James Wood enjoyed a busy weekend at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, driving several times each day. Wood drove the LHD Invicta S1 twice each day as well as the Ferrari duty (above). This enabled James to work with several journalists as well as Alfred Dunhill and TOYO Tires. James was also able to make a dream come true for a car-enthusiast with cancer in remission by taking him up the Hill in the Invicta during the Supercar Run. The passenger in question had been unable to attend the Festival in 2006 due to being in hospital having a bone-marrow transplant. The Cartier Style et Luxe is always an elegant addition to the Festival with beautiful cars displayed on the lawns to the side of the House. Dijon victory for Paddins - 24.06.07 Rupert Wood thrid fastest in Pau - 26.05.07 Rupert Wood set third fastest time in the Sportcar Cup. Wood was sharing the Widi with Neil Davies in the inaugural round of the new race series. Much of the race was spent behind the safety car meaning that Davies, the rapid Lotus XI regular had but a few racing laps although was within 0.5secs of Wood's time. Brands Hatch F1 and Saloon action despite torrential rain James Wood had a successful weekend at Brands Hatch despite torrential rain. Monday's F1 car race had to be abandoned due to standing water and impaired visibility unfortunately although the Saloon race went ahead as planned. Sunday's F1 race had gone well. Tara Agace drove brilliantly in the Masters' saloon race, taking over from James and bringing the Alfa home ahead of the other GTAs. Tara also had a great race in the U2TC saloon race constantly improving her laptime despite the difficult conditions. Stephen Curtis decided not to run the Frazer Nash LM Rep as planned having only had a short, rain-soaked qualifying session. Pau races for J Venables and R Wood Jarrah Venables and Rupert Wood will race on the famous street circuit at the Grand Prix Historique de Pau (May 26, 27th). The ancient city lies in the foothills of the Pyranees. Jarrah will share the Shelby Mustang 350GT with David Wenman whilst Rupert will race the Widi in the Sports Endurance race, partnered by the rapid Neil Davies. Grand Prix and sportscar grids will also feature. Agace, Curtis, J Wood and Woodley to Masters Festival The Masters Festival at Brands Hatch (May 27-28th) is set to be an exciting weekend with F1, Sports and Touring cars. Tara Agace is racing the Alfa GTA in two races (U2TC and Top Hat); Stephen Curtis will race the LM Rep Frazer Nash in the '50s Challenge; Jim Woodley will run the Goodwood starring Austin Westminster in the Oldies but Goldies; and James Wood is in the Masters Grand Prix races and possibly U2TC; he has been asked to drive Masters owner Ron Maydon's F1 Cooper as well as the GTA if required. www.motorsportvision.co.uk/brands-hatch/events/event-details.asp?ProductID=2804
Curtis wins in R10B Stephen Curtis won at the Wiscombe Park hillclimb on Sunday, 13th May. Curtis, driving Paddins Dowling's ERA R10B, was honoured to receive the trophy from Sue Morris, widow of well-known racer and multiple Wiscombe winner and great friend, Martin. This was for the 1.5 litre class; keeping it in the family, David Morris, son of Martin and Sue, won the 2litre class in the family ERA R11B. The meeting was a celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the hillclimb and its creators, Majors Chichester and Lambdon (the course uses the drive of the Chichester's house); it was also a tribute to Martin Morris. Silverstone: R Wood, J McIntyre, E McIntyre and Dowling Jamie McIntyre set fastest lap of the race in his first outing in the recently acquired Lister-Corvette. Rupert Wood set the pace for the small-engined cars, pulling out a huge cushion before being baulked under yellow flags in the final stages, allowing the rest of the pack to close and lose fifth place to the Lola of James Diffey. Ewan McIntyre carved through much of the field in the Rejo after an early spin at Becketts. Ewan's best lap was just 3/100ths off Rupert's. Two podiums for Dowling Paddins Dowling impressed again in ERA R10B, finishing second and third place in two races and is looking forward to his Donington debut on May 6, 7th. K1 Cup - 2007 event date August 16th has been confirmed as the date for the 2007 K1 Cup event. This will be the inaugural event, with the full championship running from in 2008. Thursday night has been selected so as not to clash with football or other major sporting events, during the 2008 season. McIntyre brothers to do battle Ewan McIntyre is set to challenge brother Jamie in the BRDC Historic Sportscar Championship in 2007. Ewan, set to drive the Rejo campaigned so successfully by Jamie since 2005, is making a switch from Caterham Superlights. Jamie McIntyre is switching to the largest capacity on the grid, running his recently acquired Lister-Chevrolet. The Lister will also be run by Mark Lewis Design & Engineering of Silverstone. BRDC Sportscar Championship 2007 The calendar for the BRDC Historic Sportscar Championship has been set subject to one event yet to be confirmed. Once again, team members Rupert Wood, Jamie McIntyre and Ewan McIntyre will contest the championship. Whether E McIntyre can better brother Jamie's 3rd place overall in 2006 is yet to be seen, as is R Wood's aim of improving on his 5th place in the Championship.
Balmshell at the Oscars Merry Christmas and a successful New Year Best wishes from all the Team - may 2007 bring yet more success and reward. Asian events and activities James Wood is in negotiation for several events in China and Malaysia, incorporating activities at both the Shangai and Sepang race circuits. More information to follow. Walter Hayes Trophy - squadra360 squadra360 will have a race at the 2006 Walter Hayes Trophy meeting, the last event on the BRDC's calendar for the year. The event, the three day event with a diverse range of grids, is held at Silverstone on 3-5th November. Jamie McIntyre and Rupert Wood are having a last outing of the season in their respective historic sportsars, the Rejo and Widi. 2007 Calendar shapes up The 2007 calendar is shaping up well, with many events outside the competitive season on the shortlist. This is long before the 2006 season has finished, with polo in Argentina, European sailing and Motorsports in Europe, UAE and Australia yet to come. Bilderbeck's second place at Silverstone James Bilderbeck finished second in class at Silverstone on October 21st, placing the Turner Climax 9th overall out of 31 starters. 'Bildy' was thrilled with this result, only his second race of the season having missed all others due to other commitments. Racing at the HSCC 'Season Finals' meeting, James posted a laptime of 1'12'988, less than 7/10ths of a second of the rapid Ginetta of Porsche racer Josh Sadler. With a thorough winter preparation and test programme lined up with James Wood, 2007 looks to have a lot of promise. Balmshell named Selfridges' "Hot Brand" of the season Balmshell, the recently launched cosmetic product, is taking London by storm, selling quicker than predicted by Selfridges, forcing them to re-order sooner ahead of plan. Woods' Widi 4th at Spa
Spa 6h 2006 - Woods, McIntyre, Woodley, Fitzpatrick September 28-1st October 2006 Testing Ford Galaxie, coaching, video footage and racing. James Wood tests car and and coaches Jim Woodley to share with multiple champion and IMSA, Bathurst and Le Mans IMSA winner John Fitzpatrick. Podium at Donington for McIntyre News details and photos to follow shortly;
Curtis outing in R10B Report and photos to follow shortly London Fashion Week - Balmshell at Issa Balmshell is fast becoming popular in London, products selling significantly ahead of projections by Selfridges. Fiona Lees took time out of interviews to attend the Issa show at the BFC Tent on Thursday, 21st September. The BFC (British Fashion Council) owns and organises London Fashion Week. Other squadra360 involvement included milliner Cozmo Jenks who attended a variety of events as a member of the 'Cool Brands' Council, the independent committee assembled to identify and promote leading 'cool' brands in the UK. www.balmshell.com www.issalondon.com www.superbrands.com/uk/
Le Mans 24 Hours 2007 - new drive squadra360 could return to Le Mans in 2007, again in the prototype category but this time in the 'LM P2' category. James Wood has been asked to drive the sportscar although the deal might conflict with an existing GT project James is involved with. Regardless, James hopes to be there either way. More details to follow. Balmshell by Jenny and Fi Balmshell, the revolutionary beauty and lifestyle brand, has been launched and is available in retail outlets across Canada and the UK. Exclusive distribution rights to for the sheer lip gloss have been secured by Selfridges (UK) and Holt Renfrew (Canada). The Canadian identical twins, themselves blonde bombshells, are in the UK from 13-20th September to launch their product, co-inciding with London Fashion Week. See: www.balmshell.com Jenkins thrives in Silverstone fog Paul Jenkins used his experience in multiple endurance events to regain some track position as the fog set-in during a night stint during the Silverstone 24hours. Many other cars slowed much more than necessary during the early stages of the fog-filled night period, helping him to regain some places which had been lost due to an earlier lengthy pitsopt. The session was then brought under the safety car for three hours as the visibility was reduced to just a few metres in places. The ISL car was one of just three Marcoses to finish out of the twelve starters, a credit to the team. Thanks to John Edwards and all the team at ISL for their unceasing work, overcoming several mechanical problems. This, of course, includes Jenkins' co-drivers Alun Edwards and Robin Jones. Walter Hayes Trophy meeting: BRDC season final Entries have opened for the BRDC's Walter Hayes Trophy meeting. The meeting, to be held at Silverstone on November 3-5th is set to host a record number of entries, making it the most popular Formula Ford festival in the UK, attracting entires from across Great Britain and Northern Ireland. F1 cars with DFV power will join the BRDC Historic Sports Cars and a miscellaney of GTs in the Secretary's Cup race in support of the Walter Hayes headline races. see: www.brdc.co.uk - Walter Hayes Trophy
Donington - BRDC at GP100 / See Red Rupert Wood and Jamie McIntyre are looking forward to the Donington round of the BRDC Historic Championship on September 24th. Wood and McIntyre, lying 5th and 3rd overall in the championship hope to consolidate their standing at the Midlands' track. The round is part of the GP100 / See Red meeting which is co-organised by the HGPCA, VSCC, Masters and TGP. Aside from the racing there is a demostration of Grand Prix cars spanning the century. Silverstone podium for Holly Mason Holly Mason celebrated on the podium at the Silverstone 24 Hours meeting, having driven superbly to finish third in the Ten Tenths' Aston Martin. Holly was thrilled with the result and enjoyed being on the podium, receiving the due applause of the Silverstone fans. Mason made a great start and ran in fourth place before handing over to her co-driver, Charles Knill-Jones, in the historic support race. An ex-Lotus Elise racer, Mason's times were closer than ever before to the rapid Knill-Jones and confirming her ability behind the wheel, as seen at the Goodwood Revival. James Wood was also pleased, having given Holly some private tuition and advice at the Revival test day the previous week. Knill-Jones has great experience, competing in many cars as well as performing a key engineering role at Ten Tenths, the succesful London-based vehicle and motorsport business. Peter Brock, racing legend: 1945-2006 Australian racing legend Peter Brock was tragically killed on a rally in Australia on Friday 8th September, 2006. Brock, known as 'Peter Perfect' for his skill and controlled style behind the wheel, had demonstrated this the previous week at the Goodwood Revival, where he was awarded the Spirit of the Meeting award. The news shook the Australian public, not just the motorsport world, as 'Brockie' was an National hero having won the Bathurst 1000 a staggering nine times. The Bathurst enduro is their equivalent of the Le Mans 24hours in which he had also competed several times. Peter was liked by everyone he met, being amiable and fun yet also polite. Brock had also won the Australian Touring Car championship and numerous other events during his immaculate career which spnned more than thirty years. Much of this success was as a team with fellow Victorian Ian Tate; Tate, who built his race engines including that of the Holden FX he drove at the Revival, was a also a close friend. Peter will be missed by all. Sincere thoughts to his wife and children. www.brock05.com www.peterbrock.com.au
James Wood has driven over 100 different models of car on over 60 circuits worldwide. He has raced cars since 1990, having started driving cars at the age of seven. |
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