Cultra Hill Climb 2017

CULTRA HILL CLIMB 2017

OUR LITTLE GOODWOOD

Text and Photos: Reinis Babrovskis

With just a few days to go before the largest festival of motorsport in the world - The Goodwood Festival of Speed it is time to look back at the alternatives here in Northern Ireland - The Cultra Hillclimb (our little Goodwood) that is quite impressive for the small island of Northern Ireland. And to be fair some of the machinery tearing up the short hill here is equally impressive.  

Cultra is one of the oldest hill climbs in the Europe (some claim it actually is the oldest) and annually attracts huge crowds as well as cars; entries are always full, in fact overbooked. This year it did appear to be a bit quieter than I am used to, but the event did clash with a lot of other car shows and events that were held on the same weekend. Saying that, the entry list was full again with 100 cars taking part in the race for the title!

The hill climb takes place on the grounds of Ulster Folk and Transport museum on the Cultra manor grounds. Built in 1902 this beautiful house is the perfect background for the static show. The courtyard with filled with modern and classic rides as well as food and automotive trade stands.

The 100 car strong entry list was outstanding, featuring classic single seaters, pre-war saloons, modern hatchbacks and sports cars. Whatever you taste may be, there was something for everybody. It really is an amazing way to celebrate the past, present and future. I really wish one year though, the event would introduce a historic dress code to match the iconic golden days of motor racing, making the whole experience a little bit more authentic.

Also I would like to say thanks to the organisers for making this event possible and improving it each year, as well a special thanks to the marshals for keeping the drivers and spectators safe!

The weather on the day, being Ireland, was never going to be predictable, but as always it didn't put any real fans off from attending the event. Once the bbq and the sunshine was enjoyed, it was time for some umbrella weather. It soon brightened up again and provided the spectators with a bit more sideways action from the drivers due to the slippery conditions.

The good thing about closed circuit racing is the fact the fans get a chance to walk around the track and the pits, offering them a way to meet the drivers, talk to them and see the vehicles up close.

 

The day finished thankfully without any major accidents; there were the few odd mishaps and technical issues, but everybody walked home with a smile on their face.

For full results and more info please visit the TSCC NI website or click HERE.

BONUS IMAGES