[Gallery] Barry Sheene Memorial Trophy at Revival 2022 | GRR
Commemorating the country’s last 500cc premier class motorcycle world champion, the Barry Sheene Memorial Trophy is always a highlight of the Goodwood Revival. For one, it’s something different from the rest of the timetable. And secondly, it gives us a chance to remember the charm, charisma, and cheeky smile of a much-missed friend of Goodwood.
Barry himself last competed here, and won, in 2002. It was an emotional return before his cruel, untimely passing in 2003. Not only a motorcycling superstar, he was also a sporting icon. A popstar on wheels, who lived life to the full.
This weekend, an entire field of amateur and professional racers pay tribute to his achievements across a two-race, two-rider format with a Le Mans-style start. Charging on what is a ferociously fast circuit for classic motorcycles with top speeds approaching 130mph. Short circuit and road racers alike compete to win one of the most prestigious trophies in classic motorcycle racing.
Watch this video: 2022 Barry Sheene Memorial Trophy part 1 highlights
With a field that boasts the names of recent Isle of Man TT lionhearts including Peter Hickman, John McGuinness, Michael Rutter, Ian Hutchinson, Lee Johnston and James Hillier. Along with British Superbike names such as Josh Brookes and veteran legends like Steve Parrish, himself Barry’s old Suzuki teammate and best pal, the pace on show is anything but pedestrian.
Upon writing, it was James Hillier who put down the gauntlet after race one, setting a slew of fastest laps and taking the win alongside his partner George Thomas. A dominating result that looked ominous to the rest of the field before race 2.
Photography by Joe Harding, Jordan Butters, Peter Summers.