GT40 celebrations hit the runway at Sywell Classic

A parade of 25 Ford GT40s will take to the ‘racing runway’ at this year’s Footman James Sywell Classic – Pistons and Props motoring festival.

The gathering celebrates 50 years since the first GT40 prototype examples were announced and the iconic marque competed at Le Mans.

Held at Northamptonshire’s Sywell Aerodrome on the weekend of 27-28 September, the GT40 Enthusiasts’ Club will lead the celebrations as a collection of GT40s power up the mile-long runway.

Over the weekend, the runway is transformed into a demonstration circuit, featuring a challenging right-hander, a flat-out straight, midway chicane and 180-degree hairpin before the finish.

Among the many GT40s on show, will be this example from enthusiast Dave Garner, registered. M40 GTR. It was built by Riccardo Engineering as a demonstrator when it was looking to offer a GT40 build service.

Dave bought the car three years ago and returned it to road and track use. After suffering engine problems during a race at Val du Vienne circuit in France, he had the engine rebuilt and lightly modified so it now puts out 335bhp from the Ford 302 cu in V8.

As well as the GT40s, there will be a mix of Formula One, Group B and C race cars, as well as historic single-seaters and saloons at the event.

Hot rods and classic motorcycles will take to the ‘sprint strip’ for some straight-line action and tyre-smoking burn outs. With a full line up of aerial displays and live music, there really is plenty of fun for all the family.

Ticket prices for adults are £14, £5 for children aged between five and 15 years old, and under five’s go free. For more information, visit www.sywellclassic.com.