My husband and son love classic cars, and classic car shows and racing, so I knew they would thoroughly enjoy themselves at the British Touring Car Championships at Thruxton racing circuit. Personally, I'm not particularly into cars or motor racing, and I know my daughter feels the same, so I wasn't really sure what was going to be there for the non-motor racing enthusiast. Watching the live races up close is, however, really thrilling, and my daughter even texted me on her new phone with 'I like the race' while she was sitting right next to me, so that was practically admitting that she was having a nice time. I think the build-up, the noise and the excitement of the crowd just draws you right in and it was easy to find plenty of good spots to watch the races from. I do think you must have to train your eye to be able to focus on the cars as they go past though, as I had no idea who was in which position (we were cheering for Team Halfords with Cataclean, particularly Daniel Rowbottom). There is a big screen if you want to watch both live action and live footage simultaneously. There are also plenty of other things going on either side of the track, with cars, stalls and hospitality in the Paddock area and lots of refreshment vans and merchandise stands on the public side of the track, plus a dedicated children's area where they could go on a bouncy castle, have their face painted, drive a Go Kart or even try their hand at steering a full size adapted car. So, even as a non race enthusiast, it was very easy to have a really enjoyable day, and I think it has reminded me that watching live sport is so very different from, and far better than, watching sport on a screen at home. I have to acknowledge that there was a very nasty crash in one of the races, but thankfully both drivers are in a stable condition and we wish them all the very best for a speedy recovery.
Elizabeth Wickenden
Director - Grapevine Media Group
You don’t have to be a petrolhead to enjoy the heady and exciting atmosphere of the Kwik Fit British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) as you get up close and personal to some amazing fast cars. It’s something everyone can enjoy, families, friends and groups alike – and of course, racing enthusiasts! Thruxton Motor Circuit is the UK’s fastest circuit but offers much more than racing, with special events, festivals, hospitality, restaurants, driving experiences and more. The BTTC is the UK's most illustrious championship, followed all over the world due to its fast, close racing.
Guests can expect to see the stars of the BTCC race wheel-to-wheel and there’s an opportunity to stay the whole weekend and camp or stay nearby.
The British Touring Car Championship was set up in 1958 and since then has attracted a huge following. All cars are built to the same regulations, allowing independent teams to compete on a level with manufacturer-backed teams. Support championships (which follow the BTCC around the UK, often future stars of motorsport) include the Porsche Carrera Cup GB, Michelin Ginetta Junior Championship, Millers Oils Ginetta GT4 Supercup, ROKiT F4 British Championship certified by FIA and the MINI CHALLENGE Trophy.
All this happens at Thruxton circuit, which is the fastest in the UK and one of the longest at 2.4 miles per lap. Its legendary high-speed corners give it its well-deserved reputation as a real driver’s circuit!
Away from the action there are plenty of places to find delicious food and drink, including in the new, state-of-the-art Thruxton Centre. Enjoy a snack, tasty treat with tea or coffee or a leisurely lunch in the restaurant overlooking the circuit.
There’s plenty for all the family and those less engaged with motorsports to enjoy, too. There’s a Supercar display, live music, Mini Karts, face painting and live interactive kids show, Pitlane walkabout and autograph session with the stars, food stalls, a Trade Village selling all kinds of wares, and more.
More events are planned to inspire and excite including The Bennetts British Superbike Championship 12-14 August (3 days of unmissable bike racing) and a whole range of Driving Experiences – from Supercars and Racing Cars to Skid Pan Driving, Karting and 4x4 Off-Roading.
