The C of Dreams

This was the third annual Goodwood Motor Circuit track day organised by Andy Harris of the 1006 Chichester MG Owners Club. Unfortunately after two years of unspectacular, but dry, weather we were caught out this year by a generally dull and at times very wet day. This, however, did not dampen the enthusiasm of any of the MG owners taking part as there were in general smiles all around. As in previous years there were two sessions; one in the morning and one in the afternoon with approximately 30 cars taking part in each session, and more in the parade lap.

MGs through the chicane

Preparing group in the pitlane

Just finishing the session and pitting in the MGC

For me this year was extra special as Ian Marshall had very kindly agreed to take me around the circuit in his 1968 MGC. I have always had a certain liking for the MGC and this would be the first time I had ever been in one and what an experience it would turn out to be. Ian had booked into the afternoon session so we started off by taking part in the parade lap at 11.30am. We had approximately forty cars in the parade lap with all the contributions going to the St Josephs Night Shelter, Chichester appeal. What a superb sight this was seeing a whole cavalcade of MGs going around one of Britain’s most historic motor racing circuits. After this, cars taking part in the lap sessions were required to undertake a maximum noise test. All cars must pass this before going out on to the track in earnest. This followed by a driver’s briefing which was designed to give the participants an understanding of the track and its difficult points. Goodwood remains one of the fastest tracks in the UK and can be very dangerous especially in the wet. Remember this is the track that killed Bruce McLaren in 1970 and ended Stirling Moss’s career in 1962. Having been briefed it was time to take to the track. For the first run Ian decided to have the roof down. This at the time seemed like a good idea, as the rain had eased off, but as we entered the pit lane the heavens opened again and it was really too late the re-erect the hood. As a result we both got absolutely soaked, although I certainly didn’t realise this until we got back to the paddock, as I was having such fun. For the second run we wisely decided to put the roof up and as a result stayed a lot dryer. So how did the car get on?

Chris Dance with her MG TF

Ian Marshall and his 1968 MGC

Andy Harris with Linda and Annie

Well I think both Ian and I were very satisfied with the MGC’s performance. It is important to state that Ian’s car has had no suspension, steering, engine or brake modifications, so it’s a totally standard MG factory car. As many MG enthusiasts will be aware the MGC has a reputation of having a nose heavy attitude and so can suffer from chronic understeer. These reports may stem back to the MGC’s press launch in 1967 when there were whispers that the road test cars supplied had under-inflated tyres which did nothing to enhance their handling characteristics. I can only say, albeit from my experience as a passenger that the C’s reputation for poor handling is just a myth. Not surprisingly the advantage of having modern radial tyres instead of the old cross-ply tyres would have helped a lot, but I must say that on the Goodwood Circuit in Ian’s hands the MGC performed admirably. As this circuit is primarily a circuit of power the C found itself quite at home especially down the Lavant straight where the big straight six series engine was able to surprise a few more modern MG owners. Naturally, going through some of the corners, St Mary’s especially, the C did struggle with getting its power down on the road and there were some tail happy moments. In total, we were able to get four fifteen minute sessions in, during the afternoon, which was really impressive and highlights what good value these events really are. Of course, as with most things you enjoy so very much, time does tend to fly past and this was no exception. The three hours we had during the afternoon session seemed to be over all too quickly and I was left feeling slightly disappointed. But nevertheless we had a really excellent day and may I take this opportunity to thank Ian and Ann Marshall for letting me “catch a ride” in their wonderful MGC, and no Ian, you didn’t scare me too much. Can I also thank Andy Harris and all his team from 1006 Chichester MGOC who made the day such a great success again. I must point out that Andy did not take part in any of the two sessions as he was too busy trying to ensure the day was a success. Hats off to you Andy it must have been hard not getting tempted. Also once again the Goodwood Motor Circuit instructors and marshals did an excellent and most impressive job making sure that we all stayed safe and on the track, well mainly.

I am already looking forward to next year’s track day (please do anther one Andy) and hopefully next year it will be sunny and I will be able to participate in my own 1969 MGB GT.

Jamie Brown