Race The Waves is a difficult event to describe to the uninitiated. If you are familiar with events like Goodwood where multi million pound cars are raced on a track in the grounds of a stately home, then this will be no help at all when describing Race the Waves.
Race the Waves takes place on a course set up on Bridlington beach while spectators munch on traditional fish and chips. I have attended a number of times and even though it isn’t my usual type of event, I am a big fan. I generally attend historic racing and rallying events where cars are purpose built to exacting specifications and drivers are licensed. Race the waves is a refreshing alternative.
Race the waves, while still scrutineered, is much more informal and it seems that as long as the car goes and stops it will be able to race. The majority of cars are of American 20’s and 30’s+ vintage and heavily modified in Hot Rod style, though a few British cars made the scene.
This year’s event has been expanded and now extends over four days. It kicks off with classics at Flamborough Lighthouse where Hot Rods, motorcycles, traditional classic cars and their owners mix in an informal gathering. Friday is press day in Bridlington old town (location for the Dads Army Film) and a chance to get up close to the cars and their drivers.
Saturday and Sunday are race days with the track being set up as soon as the tide goes out. A simple sprint course marked out with oil drums and flags. The cars run two at a time with first past post for a win. Spectators (free) gather along the sea front and have an excellent view of the proceedings. A traditional classic car show, again dominated by American cars is held nearby.
The stars of the show are the cars and there is lots of variety with cars built from aircraft fuel tanks, hot rods and even immaculate classic cars. There is rust a plenty, hand painted sign writing and white wall tyres.
Motorcycles also a feature with all kinds of road and race bikes. Most were traditional British bikes of the 50’s and 60’s, some fared racing machines and grass track bikes. Some of the bikes looked as though they were built in a garden shed, and probably were.
Whatever your classic car interest this event provides a spectacular alternative to concours events. Add it to your event plan for next year and when you have had your fill of the racing, enjoy a fish and chip supper, though if you like you flavours hotter try the Aloha for an excellent Mexican.
If you can’t wait for 2024 then check out the website below for other events by Backfire Promotions.
A gallery of pictures will be published tomorrow.
https://www.backfirepromotions.com/
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