The Settrington Cup: Where Pint-Sized Racers Steal the Show at Goodwood Revival
In the world of motorsport, where thundering V8s and screaming F1 engines usually dominate, it’s a peculiar sight to see a hush fall over the crowd as tiny racers take to the track. But that’s exactly what happens every year at the Goodwood Revival when the Settrington Cup rolls around.
Picture this: Goodwood’s iconic start/finish straight, usually the domain of historic racing machines worth millions, transformed into a playground for knee-high speed demons piloting Austin J40 pedal cars. It’s a spectacle that never fails to capture hearts and headlines, often overshadowing the “big boy” races of the weekend.
As someone who’s covered everything from Le Mans to Monaco, I can tell you there’s something magical about watching these pint-sized racers battle it out. The determination on their faces, the parents nervously pacing the sidelines, the crowd holding its collective breath – it’s pure, unadulterated racing spirit distilled into its most innocent form.
The Austin J40: A Miniature Legend
Now, for the uninitiated, the Austin J40 might just look like a fancy toy car. But let me tell you, these little machines have a history as rich as any full-sized racer.
The J40 was originally produced in the 1950s as part of a scheme to keep Welsh miners employed during a downturn in the coal industry.
Built in Bargoed, South Wales, these pedal cars were crafted with the same attention to detail as their road-going counterparts. Chrome bumpers, working headlights, and pneumatic tires – these weren’t your average pedal cars.
Today, original J40s are highly sought after by collectors, often fetching prices that would make you choke on your tea. But at Goodwood, they’re not museum pieces – they’re race cars, pure and simple.
The Settrington Cup: More Than Just Child’s Play
Don’t let the adorable factor fool you – the Settrington Cup is serious business. It’s a two-part race, with results aggregated to crown an overall winner. The young drivers, aged between 5 and 10, approach it with all the gravity of a Formula 1 world championship.
Strategy plays a big part. Some kids go flat out from the start, while others pace themselves for a strong finish. And just like in the grown-up races, there’s always the risk of mechanical failure. I’ve seen more than one heartbroken youngster forced to retire with a slipped chain or a jammed pedal.
But what really gets me every time is the sportsmanship. These kids race hard, no doubt about it. But at the end, there are handshakes, high-fives, and genuine congratulations all round. It’s enough to restore your faith in the future of motorsport.
A Glimpse into Racing’s Future?
You know, watching these kids tear down the straight, I can’t help but wonder if we’re seeing the next generation of racing stars in the making. After all, many of today’s top drivers started their careers in karts not much bigger than these J40s.
Who knows? In 15 or 20 years’ time, we might see a Settrington Cup veteran standing on the top step at Le Mans or hoisting the F1 World Championship trophy. Stranger things have happened in the world of motorsport.
The Heart of Goodwood Revival
In many ways, the Settrington Cup embodies everything that makes the Goodwood Revival special. It’s a celebration of motorsport history, yes, but it’s also about passing the torch to the next generation.
It’s a reminder that at its core, racing isn’t about the millions of pounds invested or the cutting-edge technology. It’s about the pure joy of competition, the thrill of the chase, and the camaraderie among competitors.
As I watch these pint-sized racers cross the finish line, their faces lit up with the kind of unbridled joy that only comes from giving it your all, I’m reminded why I fell in love with this sport in the first place.
Looking Ahead
The Settrington Cup has become such an integral part of the Goodwood Revival that it’s hard to imagine the event without it. It’s a testament to the organizers’ understanding that motorsport isn’t just about preserving the past – it’s about nurturing the future.
So next time you’re at the Revival, by all means, marvel at the classic Ferraris and vintage Jaguars. But make sure you don’t miss the Settrington Cup. Because in those few minutes of pedal-to-the-metal action, you’ll see the very essence of what makes racing great.
And who knows? You might just be witnessing the first chapter in the career of a future motorsport legend. After all, every great journey starts with a single pedal stroke.
