In 1997, a group of enthusiasts felt it was high time interest in the Palace’s history was rekindled and organised a series of highly successful sprint events. The informal and relaxed atmosphere of these meetings was described in the national press as rather like a ‘high octane garden party’.
And here is some classic footage of those halcion days, including Murray Walker getting over-excited as usual!
Here's the Press Release from the event organisers.
It's been a long time coming, but Crystal Palace will once again play host to a national motorsport event. Motorsport at the Palace, sponsored by the Ancaster Group, have confirmed that a two-day sprint event will be run over the May Bank Holiday weekend (30-31 May 2010), reigniting the spirit of racing at the Park.
Martin Chinnery, Chairman of Sevenoaks DMC, says: "Sevenoaks DMC is extremely pleased to announce the return of motorsport to Crystal Palace. Thanks to a lot of hard work and the support of our title sponsor, the Ancaster Group, we're delighted that fans will once again be able to experience racing at the Palace. The range of cars competing, coupled with additional events and displays, will make this a fantastic event for everyone, whether you're a motorsport fan or just after a fun day out."
Stephen Wood, Managing Director of Ancaster, added: "It's not every day you have the opportunity to become a part of history in the making. This event has South London roots older than our own. To see some truly fantastic pieces of machinery - old and new - will make these two days an event not to be missed."
Celebrating the rich history of motorsport at Crystal Palace, a host of modern and vintage cars will be competing for the accolade of fastest car at the Park. Many of these vehicles raced at the Palace decades ago, and spectators will have a unique opportunity to see these classic machines reacquainted with Britain's oldest purpose-built race track. There will also be a new category for electric and alternative-powered cars, providing visitors with a glimpse of things to come, both on the race track and the road.
Competitors will race along a section of the old track, incorporating Pond Hairpin, the Big Tree Bend part of the Terrace Straight and the infamous North Tower Crescent - in a bid to set the fastest time of the day.
Visitors seeking a break from the action will be able to stroll around the numerous display vehicles and open paddock, watching mechanics at work, chatting to the drivers and generally soaking up the racing atmosphere.
Competitors will each donate a minimum £10 in support of St. Christopher's Hospice and the Royal London Society for the Blind; exhibitors will also contribute, ensuring that Motorsport at the Palace provides a lasting benefit to the community.
Tickets are priced at £10 per day and advance tickets will be available at a discount, from the website http://motorsportatthepalace.co.uk/
A film from the organisers about the upcoming event...
Here is a pic of the old track layout within the park so you can see where they are going...
http://www.cocgb.dircon.co.uk/cry_pal_racetrack.htm
and a photo tour of the track by a man who probably owns a few cardigans...
Crystal Palace Race Track Photo Tour
and a little more info at the obligatory wikipedia entry
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crystal_Palace_(circuit)
I'll be there....
Dom Conrad
Comments
Good research Jedi!
Duly updated.
That looks reall good. I can't wait. There's a really good youtube video form on of he organisers of the event explaining it in more detail here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e12kyWnYAtI
Would be nice to add it to the article if possible.
Kevin.