Silverstone will be rolling back the years at the 2005 International Historic Festival (30 & 31 July) when some of the finest racing cars ever built will take to the world famous Grand Prix circuit. The two day event, blending nostalgia with hard, competitive racing, will feature more than 500 competitors in 16 of the very best historic races over an outstanding weekend of entertainment for all the family. Breathtaking action is guaranteed with a stunning range of Formula One cars, dating from the 1960’s to mid 1980’s, taking to the track in their original livery – just as they would have done in their heyday.
Grand Prix Masters and a round of the FIA Championship for Thoroughbred Grand Prix Cars will undoubtedly provide highlights of the weekend. Much loved classics, including evocative marques such as Lotus, Brabham, and Maserati will provide an incredible spectacle as they battle it out in an action packed programme that also features more recent F1 challengers such as Ferrari, Williams and Arrows.
Spectators will also have the opportunity to get up close and personal with some of the most loved, and best presented classic racing cars in the world. The entire event will be centred on the infield at Silverstone with free entry to the open paddock, pit lane garages and centre trade village providing fans with unrivalled access to their favourite cars. Classic Sportscars from the 1950s to 1980’s will also be well represented with HSCC, Group C, BRDC, and HGPCA Sportscars all heading to the home of British Motor Racing. Aston Martins, Ferraris, Porsches and Jaguars will all relive the glory days of British motorsport, while a one hour BRDC 500 race, featuring pre-war historic race cars, will no doubt be the main attraction for Sportscar fans. In addition to the racing there will also be plenty to keep families and younger fans entertained away from the track. Hot Air Balloons of all shapes and sizes will launch into the skies on Saturday evening, while the Vintage Aircraft Club will be performing a fly-by on Sunday before landing in the centre of the circuit to form an additional display. A vintage fairground, historic bike display, themed catering, and art and photographic exhibitions will also be situated near the open paddock on the inside of the circuit. Richard Phillips, Managing Director of Silverstone Circuits Limited, commented: “We are really excited about this year’s Silverstone International Historic Festival. There will be a fantastic atmosphere throughout the weekend with some of the country’s leading historic racing clubs treating spectators to some breathtaking on-track action. Phillips continued:
“Historic motorsport events always create a unique atmosphere. It will be a fantastic family event, with entertainment offered both on and off the circuit.