Videos like this one, which documents in glorious period style the 1979 Canadian-American Challenge round at Laguna Seca.
The preamble for the race of ‘the world’s fastest sportscars’ is so cool, with a brief overview of the Pacific Coast area of California Laguna is so slightly inland from. We see the spectators funnelling in – this was a popular series, for the incredible cars and the excitement of the racing.
There’s star appeal, too, with Grand Prix and Le Mans legends on the grid, from Keke Rosberg, to Jackie Ickx, who were vying at Laguna for the Championship with Elliot Forbes-Robinson. Of course, we know Ickx would go on to claim the championship in 1979. The man, the myth, the legend that is Dan Gurney, takes us into the pit lane and through the revolutionary POV view being experimented with for the first time, as well as outlining the standings of the championship.
It was Rosberg that proved fastest qualifying, pushing his ‘Budweiser Spider’ to the very limits and beyond. The amount he’s weaving around, sliding, going off the track, you have to wonder how he managed to be fastest. He went on to suffer a prang in his car later in the session and suffered pain trying to get in it and get running for the race itself.
As the cars absolutely thunder across the line, the speeds are near unimaginable, even as they brake for turn one. We don’t see racing like this anymore: racing you can’t take your eyes off, for even a second.
Welcome to Goodwood Elevenses, a helping of motoring-related amusement to help break up your day. Watch the last video: Lister Costin tops 140mph in Sicily
Video
Elevenses
Race
Historic
Can-Am
Laguna Seca
Book tickets
For our big events, to the small ones too
Book event hospitality
Enjoy with loved ones, colleagues or clients
Buy an experience
For yourself, a loved one, or both!
Book a table
Choose from three of our restaurants
Book your stay
Stay at our hotel, cottages or Hound Lodge
Become a member
Join the family and get exclusive rewards
Book tickets Change
Choose event
FOS Favourite Mad Mike Whiddett can be caught melting tyres in his incredible collection of cars (and trucks) up the hillclimb
From elite motorsport to historic horse racing, you’ll have an unforgettable experience.
Book event hospitality Change
Choose event
Festival of Speed is our longest-standing Motorsport event, starting in 1993 when it opened to 25,00 people. We were expecting 2000!
Experience ultimate access to our exceptional events with our all inclusive hospitality packages.
Buy an experience Change
Choose experience
Henry Cavill, Hugh Grant, Armie Hammer and Guy Ritchie filmed scenes at our very own Motor Circuit
From driving and flying to golf and dining, experiences at Goodwood are simply unforgettable.
Book a table Change
Choose restaurant
Choose from three of our restaurants, all serving our award-winning organic produce.
Book your stay Change
Find availability
Henry Cavill, Hugh Grant, Armie Hammer and Guy Ritchie filmed scenes at our very own Motor Circuit
We’re already looking forward to seeing you.
Become a member Change
Choose a membership
Whatever your passion, there is a Goodwood membership to make you feel at home.
Sign in below to access your account and benefits
Don't have an account?Create your account by entering your details below...
Already have an account
