Oulton Park Gold Cup Review - 2025
The Oulton Park Gold Cup has been on the CKGB radar for quite some time. It seemed like the perfect event for us, and we were excited to take part. And so it was, after a captivating interview with Captain Tannering on his local BBC Northampton radio station, the phone rang with the invite, and the excitement quickly escalated. Once the site visits were done, the stage was set for what promised to be an unforgettable weekend.
The event was a big hit right from the start, with spots filling up fast. We ended up with 27 karts registered to take part, and as the weekend approached, we had a fantastic turnout on Friday, with members arriving early to help set up and walk the track. The Gold Cup itself was already in full swing, so there was plenty to enjoy in the paddock and on the main circuit.
For the weekend, we were given a section of the rally track—an exceptionally smooth, slippery tarmac that had been finished with a fine polished glass surface. Usually used for training drivers to drift and slide rally cars, it was clear from the get-go that we were in for a thrilling experience. Positioned just across from the main paddock and near one of the largest car parks, we had a steady stream of spectators passing through all weekend.
The course itself offered a mix of fast corners, a good straight, and a tricky uphill hairpin, followed by a slow gravel section near the paddock before looping back to the start/finish line. It was, simply put, beautiful. The smooth surface allowed for some fast, fluid racing, and the slippery conditions made for perfect drifting opportunities.
We had some newcomers from Scotland—Pat (Paddy the Pilot) Walton and Ade Colmar—along with Pat’s stunning 1934 Singer Le Mans. Though they had a few teething issues, once those were sorted, the car performed beautifully.
It was also a special weekend for me personally, as my daughter Romilly joined us for the first time. She spent the weekend getting to grips with our ERA No. 69, putting it through its paces and having a blast in the process. As any parent can attest, watching your child take the wheel of something you've built is both thrilling and emotional.
Overall, the weekend ran smoothly with very few breakdowns, and aside from the scheduled breaks, there was always someone on track. We were lucky with the weather too—only a few light showers, but nothing to slow us down. Our club members were outstanding, stepping up to marshal and engaging with the public. We received lots of interest in our little machines, and the MSV team at Oulton Park were thoroughly impressed with how professionally the club conducted itself.
All in all, it was a fantastic weekend, and I’m already looking forward to next year.
Words: Tim Holdsworth
Photography: Jay Pratt, Andy Boulton and other Members
