THE CHAMPAGNE corks were popping when the Chateau Impney Hill Climb stepped up to the top spot on the podium at the annual Royal Automobile Club’s (RAC) Historic Awards.
The racing extravaganza, which returned in 2015, took the chequered flag in the Best Competitive Event category which was sponsored by Brewin Dolphin.
The awards, new for 2019, have been created to recognise excellence and outstanding contributions to the UK’s historic motoring and motorsport industries.
The judges’ praised the Hill Climb for its ‘winning combination of a classic venue, excellent organisation, ‘proper’ competition from a strong entry and great facilities and attractions for visitors’.
Rod Spollon, the managing director of Chateau Impney who was responsible for bringing the Hill Climb back, received the accolade at a gala dinner hosted by Formula 1 and sports TV presenter Lee McKenzie.
Rod said: “We set out to create an experience which consistently exceeded expectations, year after year.
“The event would not be what it is today without the people involved, the visitors, the competitors and the contributors, bringing with them an enthusiasm and passion not only for motorsport but by creating an atmosphere where everyone at the event feels included and a part of something special.”
The Hill Climb draws crowds of 20,000 who come to see the diverse range of classic cars and their drivers.
Away from the track there is a Supercar Expo featuring 100 modern motors, a vintage funfair, 4×4 experiences, interactive experiences, a fun zone, tank rides, aircraft fly-pasts and stunt planes.
The 2020 Chateau Impney Hill Climb will take place on July 18 and 19 next year with tickets going on sale in January.
Visit chateauimpneyhillclimb.com for more information on the event.
