Rare gems

These are the UK races and series that don’t grab the headlines, but provide huge entertainment for the spectator and competitor alike

HRDC Academy

With regulations written with the specific aim of equalising the performance of the competing Austin A30s and A35s, the Academy has become one of the big success stories of the historic racing calendar in recent years. How equal? All cars are the same specification, with 1275cc engines, single SU carbs and identical cams. The rollcages and suspension are also identical. Yes, they look comical – but quality of the racing cannot be questioned.
www.hrdc.eu/academy.html

Historic Formula Junior

2018 is the Diamond Jubilee year of Formula Junior and the historic racing side – led ably by FJHRA and the HSCC – is going from strength to strength. Not just in the UK either – interest in the 1100cc single-seater series is global. The FJHRA/HSCC Silverline UK championship kicks off at Donington on the weekend of April 7-8.
www.formulajunior.com

HGPA 1930-1951 Grand Prix & Voiturette

All cars that race in HGPCA meetings must have competed in Grand Epreuve races on or before 31st December 1965, but the cars produced in the 21-year period between 1930 and 1951 are particularly worth seeking out. Minimum engine capacity is 1.5 litres and the cars must wear 16in wheels. Head to the Brands Hatch Superprix on June 29–July 1 to witness some of the most glorious historics in action.
www.hgpca.net

Equipe Pre-63

A series that pays homage to clubmans racing of the 1950s, Equipe Pre-63 is for FIA period E ‘Appendix K’ cars that use Dunlop Historic ‘L’ section tyres. Like the original Equipe GTS series, the racing will be close, the cars prepared to a high standard, and the paddock atmosphere highly sociable. If you fancy a weekend out, head over the Channel over July 28-29 to watch them compete among the dunes of Zandvoort.
www.equipepre63.co.uk