Back in 1981, this event took place in Dubai as a part of the UAE’s 10th anniversary year. Then last year as part of the 50th Jubilee celebrations, the event was resurrected. A mix of historic F1 and Group C cars from the ’70s and ’80s, that had been restored from an era of drivers such as Nigel Mansel, Juan Manual Fangio, Carol Shelby, and Stirling Moss. With its huge following and attendance, the event was again a central part of the motorsport season. More cars, more personalities, and an atmosphere that takes you back to a most romantic era of motorsport.
The days start with much preparation. Teams roll back the covers, revealing these wonderful cars, and going through all the necessary checks required to run them in the competition on the Dubai Autodrome GP circuit. Gentle chit-chat, the rattle of spanners and tools, whizzing of pumps, the hissing of tyre pressure checks, then BOOM. Cars started and the sound resonates through the paddocks.
Then
Boom
As per any normal GP, they will go through the motions of sending the cars out and holding on to the start/finish grid. Here we see all the cars lined up. Umbrellas cover open seats from the sun, Helmets, and gloves are placed on the bodywork of the cars, and drivers dressed in their classic look suits, talk over last-minute issues, strategies, and setups. The grid girls march in, and stand down the centre of the grid, posing for the media and adding their gentle elegance among these amazing cars. Media clicking, filming, and chatting with drivers. Marshals controlled the crowd, and the noise of drums pounded throughout the start/finish area. Then when time is up, the Marshals blow the whistle. The grid is cleared, and drivers dress up and jump into their cars. Mechanics assist in starting the vehicles. The grandstand and grid fill with the car’s powerful sounds.  Once ready, they get the flag for a formation lap. A quick warm-up of the tyres, a chance for a final understanding of the circuit, and then ensure the correct starting positions on the grid. And probably the most exciting part of any race. Lights on revs increase, and GO!!! A Thunderous raw engulfs the grandstand and grid. Something that only those present will experience.Â
This event is an amazing experience for young and old. It allows us all to appreciate where we are today. Cars without electronics, driven by passion and grit. No time for nerves. Adrenaline pumps cleanly through the body. Besides the racing, people exhibit their classics also. Fine cars are respectfully restored. But not only that, music and entertainment for all.
Enjoy the images, but moreover, if you are in Dubai this time next year, consider this a great inspirational and insightful weekend visit. And you don’t have to be a motorhead to enjoy!
James has a most positive and illuminating view of the world, finding soul and animation in our ever-manufactured global environments.
A traveler by nature, James has grown his professional and diverse career in Supply Chain, Photo-journalism and Digital Marketing management by acquainting himself with different traditions and cultures of more than 35 countries around the world. Capturing memories, creating identities, and gaining great perspectives.
In addition, James takes on the recent challenge of founder and creator to push his internationally recognized freelance and corporate experiences into new and exciting times with the advent of Brand Command. A brand and marketing company recognizing the creative talents of others around the world and placing soul and emotion into the image of its clients.