Torrential rain, deep mud and overflowing camaraderie set the tone at last month’s Vintage Sports Car Club Winter Driving Tests at Bicester Motion, a purists’ delight and a fitting finale to a year of friendly competition and spirited rivalry. 

Thanks to the generosity of the VSCC, we were able to enter three young StarterMotor Ambassadors in the event. Andrew Evans took the wheel of our 1934 Austin 7 Speedy, while James Mabley piloted a VSCC member’s Austin 7 Chummy. Completing the trio, Morgan Wallace also flew the flag for Chummy owners, borrowing a friend’s car for the occasion. 

All three faced a series of cleverly conceived tests devised by Mark Elder of The Motor Shed. From threading their way through the ‘Wellington Wiggle’ to deciphering the ‘Barracuda’s Bite’, the ten varied courses delivered a hugely entertaining spectacle. VSCC members danced through the cones with precision, and always with enthusiasm, sending showers of mud skyward and leaving behind what could only be described as avant-garde automotive-generated artwork on cars, clothing and faces! 

Events like this perfectly capture the inclusive spirit of the historic motoring community. Experienced competitors and seasoned experts were quick to offer advice, encouragement and practical tips to younger entrants, underlining exactly why these events matter so much; they inspire, engage and reward participants of all ages. 

It was a superb event, bringing together enthusiasts, friends and supporters from across the historic motoring world. Our thanks go to the VSCC for the sponsored entries and its continued support of StarterMotor’s mission: to identify and encourage committed young enthusiasts and professionals, grow the community, and help fill the vital roles needed to secure a healthy future for the sector.