MG fest at Brands Hatch

badboysa69

Sep 9

5 min read

On the 16th of August, a perfect day for roof down motoring an exhilarating adventure awaits as we embark on an early morning trip to the renowned Brands Hatch circuit in Kent, a location famed for its rich motorsport history and breathtaking scenery. This day marks the much-anticipated MG Fest event, a celebration that draws enthusiasts from all corners of the country, eager to share their passion for these classic vehicles. The atmosphere is always electric, filled with the sounds of revving engines, the aroma of petrol, and the camaraderie of fellow MG lovers.

I feel incredibly fortunate to be making this journey alongside my son, who shares my enthusiasm for classic cars and the thrill of the open road. We will be cruising in a stunning 1968 MGC Roadster, a vehicle that not only represents a significant era in automotive history but also holds a special place in our hearts. The MGC, with its distinctive design and powerful engine, is a true icon of British motoring, and driving it evokes a sense of nostalgia and pride.

The early start allows us to enjoy the tranquility of the morning as we set off, the sun just beginning to rise, casting a golden glow on the countryside. The winding roads leading to Brands Hatch are a delight, offering us a chance to appreciate the handling and performance of the MGC. As we drive, we can’t help but engage in lively discussions about our favorite MG models, the history of the brand.

Upon arrival at Brands Hatch, we are greeted by a vibrant display of MGs from various eras, each with its own story and character. The event promises a full day of activities, including thrilling races, expert talks, and the opportunity to meet fellow enthusiasts who share our passion. We will have the chance to explore the paddocks, admire the craftsmanship of restored models. shortly are we arrived the family arrived with grand kids in tow and we set off looking at the cars and the food stalls

This outing is not just about the cars; it’s also a chance for bonding and creating lasting memories with my son. The shared experience of being surrounded by like-minded individuals, all celebrating the love for MGs, adds to the joy of the day. The excitement of the event, combined with the thrill of driving the MGC, makes for an unforgettable experience that we will cherish for years to come.

The MGC GTS (S for Sebring) is recognised as being one of the most exciting, MG badged, cars to come out of the BMC Competitions Department, Abingdon, in the 1960s. The concept of developing a lightweight MGC emerged in 1966 with the aim of competing in the prototype sports car class, particularly at the prestigious Sebring, FL. Raceway. Six body shells were built, using the centre structure from the production MGC as the platform, to this was attached aluminium exterior panels, including, roof, door skins, front valance, rear hatch (including perspex screen) and front and rear wings (fenders) with their distinctive “bubble” flares; these were required in order to accommodate wider wheels and tyres. The production car was fitted with an aluminium bonnet (hood) as standard.

Because of financial concerns at BMC’s HQ, only two lightweight versions of the MGC GT were assembled at Abingdon. The first car, registered MBL 546E (ADO52-1060 – affectionately referred to as “Mabel”), was entered into the 1967 Targa Florio but as an MGB GT Special because it was fitted with an MGB four-cylinder engine and MGB bonnet; the launch of the MGC, later that year, was still a secret at that time. Although this car had two experienced drivers in Paddy Hopkirk and Tommi Makinen, they couldn’t wring enough speed out of it even to be classified. In March 1968, this car, now uprated with its originally designated MGC six cylinder engine, fitted with an alloy cylinder head, triple Weber 45 DCOE carburettors, mounted on a purpose designed inlet manifold and producing 202bhp at 6000 rpm., was entered into the Sebring 12 hours race. It was, of course, fitted with a proper MGC bonnet and because the MGC had been announced, in the previous October, there was no need for secrecy, it carried its MGC GTS badge with pride. This time Paddy Hopkirk was partnered by Andrew Hedges, they achieved the outstanding position of tenth overall and first in class. The objective of endowing the MGC with some creditability in the all important North American market seemed to have been achieved, or it would have been if the MGC itself hadn’t been such a “dud”! Later that year, August to be precise, “Mabel”, in the hands of Belgian driver Julien Vernaeve and Brits, Tony Fall and Andrew Hedges, were entered in the 84-hour-long ‘Marathon de la Route’ at the Nürburgring circuit. Another outstanding result was achieved, sixth overall and first in class. The other car, carrying the registration number RMO 699F (ADO52-1059 – referred to as “Romeo”) driven by Roger Enever, Alec Poole and Clive Baker, did not finish due to a head gasket failure.

The following year both cars were entered into the Sebring 12 hours race under the British Leyland Motor Corporation (BLMC) banner. “Romeo”, driven by Andrew Hedges and Paddy Hopkirk finished a reasonable fifteenth overall and “Mabel” driven by Canadians Bill Brack and Craig Hill finished 34th. That was the “Swan Song” for these cars and the race programme that they were part of. Sir Donald Stokes (later Lord Stokes of Leyland), BL’s chairman and his ‘Leyland’ management team and got to grips with the sprawling, inefficient and not particularly profitable BMH (British Motor Holding – BMC plus Jaguar) entity that had merged with his Leyland Motor Company (Leyland Trucks, Standard-Triumph and Rover), under U.K. Government “guidance”. He had concluded that the merged group had too many sports car brands and models. He was going to concentrate on what he knew best, Triumph, the others, MG, Austin Healey and Cooper, could “go to the wall” and good riddance. This was not a view shared by the many MG and Healey enthusiasts around the world but particularly in North America. The fact that these brands have been kept alive and flourish in the form of well established “Owners Clubs”, bears testimony to that affection. After the 1969 Sebring race, the two cars and some spare parts were sold to BLMC distributors in the USA. They were raced in “club” events for a while and then they were bought and later traded by Private Collectors, which is their status today, lovingly cared for.