Thirty Cobras line up for one-off race at Goodwood

In these dark days of winter, next September’s Goodwood Revival might seem a long way off, but here’s something for historic motorsport fans to look forward to. The 2012 Revival (14-16 September) will see an amazing collection of genuine AC Cobras gather for a one-model race at the famous West Sussex circuit – a race marking the 50th anniversary since Carroll Shelby introduced the first versions of the cult Anglo-American sports car.

No fewer than 30 Cobras and their derivatives will take part in the 45-minute, 2-driver race, with famous cars and motorsport stars lining up on the grid. It’s also hoped that the great man himself – Carroll Shelby – will be coming to the Revival in person, but Goodwood can’t yet confirm this.

For those who aren’t regular Goodwood-goers, the Revival is the annual three-day race weekend run entirely to a period theme. Dress up in your best 1950s or 60s outfits to get the best from the event, and feel a real part of the show, rather than a spectator. Lord March’s other major annual motorsport event is the Goodwood Festival of Speed (28 June-1 July 2012), often described as the world’s largest garden party, and essentially a hillclimb in the grounds of Goodwood House with everything from ancient automobiles to F1 cars and stars.

Both events are so popular that tickets are strictly by advance sale only. If you’ve never been before, why not treat yourself in 2012? See www.goodwood.com/motorsport