Oct 6, 2023 • 15 min read
A Day at the Goodwood Revival
I’ve been an Anglophile for as long as I can remember. My 16-year-old son has had a passion for automobiles since he could eat solid food. At this year’s Goodwood Revival, we found the perfect day out.
Initially, I wasn’t familiar with the “Goodwood Revival Meeting” until my son, Owen, was invited to attend by a British friend. A quick search revealed it to be a delightful weekend of antique car racing in the south of England.
As someone who has loved English culture my whole life, from The Beatles to Wimbledon, my enthusiasm has always been strong. After my first visit to London at nine years old, I developed a deeper appreciation for all things British, including the quirks of its culture. My wife shares this obsession, so we prioritize trips to the UK whenever we can.
However, I was hesitant about this trip. We’d had a lean year financially and couldn’t really afford it. Moreover, the timing coincided with Owen’s first days of his junior year in high school. Justifying a long trip for some classic racing seemed difficult.
The Call of Motorsports
It’s worth noting that the “car gene” appears to be recessive in my family. Growing up, my parents favored sensible, mundane sedans. My life in Los Angeles made cars a necessary evil, something to endure. Consequently, motorsports seemed foreign to me, represented by NASCAR—a loud, unrefined spectacle.
Then Owen came along. From an early age, he was fascinated with cars, obsessively playing with them, watching related content, and even memorizing the movie Cars. As he matured, his interests evolved into Hot Wheels, model supercars, and Formula 1 races, leading him toward a career in mechanical engineering with aspirations to design for iconic brands like McLaren and Aston Martin.
After considering skipping the opportunity, I spoke with Rick, a dedicated car enthusiast. He urged me not to pass up on the invitation to the Goodwood Revival, impressing upon me its significance.
Planning Our Adventure
We decided to take the plunge and book the trip—credit card debt be damned! Our plan was to minimize disruption in Owen’s school year by flying in on Friday, attending the races Saturday, resting Sunday, and returning to LA on Monday. No sleep till Goodwood!
The Goodwood estate in West Sussex has a rich history, dating back to the 1600s. During World War II, the 9th Duke of Richmond allowed the RAF to construct a runway, which later converted into a motor circuit after the war. The current Duke revived this tradition in 1998 into a popular annual event.
Upon accepting the invitation, we learned that dressing in period costume was encouraged. The event is designed to transport attendees back to the 1940s and 1950s, and with a costume designer in the family, we were well-prepared.
The Journey to Goodwood
We left London early to avoid crowds, and as we traveled towards Goodwood, the English countryside proved stunning in the morning light. The rolling green hills and quaint villages were picturesque, yet we had to remain focused on our destination.
As we got closer to Chichester, the excitement mounted. My son noticed other classic cars on the road, each adding to the atmosphere as we neared the event. We parked and set forth to experience all the Goodwood Revival offered.
A Step Back in Time
Upon entering, we were surrounded by attendees dressed in period attire. It was a spectacle—hundreds of individuals paying homage to a bygone era with remarkable commitment. The atmosphere was charged with nostalgia and pure English charm.
Shopping opportunities abound with various retailers selling vintage outfits and accessories, ensuring all attendees could embrace the event’s spirit. The lively environment heightened my senses as we explored the venue.
Culinary Delights and Racing Excitement
After catching breakfast in the pavilions, we were ready to witness the first race. The sound of roaring engines filled the air as classic cars took to the track—tantalizing glimpses of vintage engineering captivating Owen’s heart.
As races unfolded, I found myself drawn into the thrill. The sight of skilled drivers controlling antique machines was exhilarating, showcasing the interplay of man and machine.
Embracing the Passion for Cars
As my enthusiasm for the event grew, Owen eagerly shared details about the races. Each thrilling pursuit brought various classic cars to the forefront. The crowd came alive, showcasing a shared passion for racing that united thousands.
Wrapping up the day, we appreciated vintage fairground attractions that brought nostalgia and joy. My son, now a young man, stood beside me—his excitement mirrored my own, creating cherished memories.
A Day to Remember
The experience at the Goodwood Revival was indeed a gift. On that beautiful day in West Sussex, my son’s passion intertwined with mine, and I emerged with newfound insight into his world. It became clear that these moments together were treasures, woven into the fabric of our relationship.
