My preference in motorsport is for historic rallying or circuit racing. These are high value cars in amazing condition and permanently at peril when they take to the track. So it is a puzzle to me that I keep being drawn back to Race the Waves where the cars look like they were nailed together in a shed. Perhaps it is because they are such a contrast that appeals.
The event (which is free to attend) is very informal and starts with a Thursday evening gathering of cars and bikes at Flamborough lighthouse. But as you drive around the Bridlington area you will see hot rods all over as they start to set up camp.
On Friday there is a press day in Bridlington old town where you can get up close to the cars and bikes and talk to the drivers. It is an opportunity to see how the cars are built which despite their appearance are finely crafted machines. I am fascinated by the belly tank racers, hand built from parts from a dozen different sources within a discarded aeroplane fuel tank.
The main event takes place over the weekend and the races take place on the beach by Bridlington Spa. We set off from our base in Driffield to the large car park for the park and ride and we hit our first problem here. The car park was closed because it was full, something unknown even in peak season. We turned around and headed for Bridlington town centre where we tried the council car park. This too was full but we hit lucky and snagged a space when someone else left.
Even in the height of summer I have never seen Bridlington so busy. This event, supported by a steam punk event and a food festival certainly pulled in the punters. East Yorkshire Council must have been thrilled with the turnout.
Despite it being a warm sunny day in Driffield the coast line was shrouded in a sea fret. Frankly it looked like a scene from a Mad Max film with roaring engines hidden in the mist with and occasional glimpses of crazy machinery.
Despite the lack of visibility the cars sprinted down the beach in pairs. The results seemed to be unimportant, it was all about taking part. And, when you needed a break there was a nearby display of some real quality classic cars, mostly American but not all.
Fortunately Sunday was bright and clear and the racing provided entertainment for the crowds of visitors and steam punk enthusiasts.
If you are looking for something a bit different, then I would have no hesitation in recommending this event.
