Before the revelry gets underway, we hear the evocative early morning coughs and splutters from a trio of Rolls-Royce Merlin engines getting primed for a Spitfire dawn patrol over what was RAF Westhampnett. It’s the first of what’s sure to be many goosebump moments. With a shiver running down our spine and hairs stood to attention, our ritualistic walk through the paddock reveals tantalising signs of what’s to come.
It’s serene, but it won’t be long until the cars in these shelters will be snarling their way around the famously fast and flowing Goodwood Motor Circuit. It will be a bombardment of noise, smoke and kinetic energy.
Racing here is a challenge for the ages, and today’s drivers and machines alike will try their utmost to pay homage to our motorsport heritage. Most will hope to write their very own new chapter into the Revival history books. Only a few will triumph.
Photography by Tom Shaxson.