Goodwood gets involved with The Official Beaujolais Run 2006

Goodwood will be involved for the first time ever in The Official Beaujolais Run 2006, being held between 14-16 November, to benefit two very worthwhile charitable causes; the Down’s Syndrome Association (DSA) and Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity.

The unspoilt historic West Sussex-based Goodwood Motor Circuit, the spiritual successor to Brooklands, and home of the celebrated Goodwood Revival, will be the starting venue for The Beaujolais Run 2006, with a grid restricted to 30 unique vehicles, competing to ‘Bring Back the Beaujolais’ after its launch in Beaujeu at midnight on Wednesday 15th November 2006.

The 30 competitor vehicles will be flagged off at the Goodwood starting point at around 8.30 am on Tuesday 14 November by 1996 Formula One World Champion Damon Hill, (spectators welcome). After a lap of the Goodwood circuit, behind an ‘interesting’ pace car, the participants will head off via a South Coast route for EuroTunnel.

The first day will end with a reception at Veuve Clicquot, Reims. All participants will enjoy a tour of the Caves and gain an insight into the champagne method. Participants are then free to explore Reims at their leisure. This will make for a relaxing overnight stop for all teams to prepare for day two.

Fully refreshed, competitors will point their vehicles in the direction of Burgundy en route to Macon. Day two begins the navigational challenge at the heart of the event. The aim here is the shortest distance (via a series of cryptic checkpoints) and not the fastest speed; avoiding reputational risk and ensuring all participants reach their destination safely.

Macon is where the challenge will culminate, as teams are wined and dined in true French style with a celebratory dinner at Chateau des Jacques, Moulin a Vent hosted by Baron Guillaume de Curières de Castelnau, before joining in local celebrations and fireworks at the traditional Beaujolais Release Fete in Beaujeu. The 2006 Beaujolais Nouveau is then released at midnight, after which aall participants will return to Calais and the UK at their own pace after a good night’s sleep.

Commenting on the event, Lord March says, “At Goodwood, we pride ourselves on giving our guests an enjoyable experience, whilst supporting good causes through our charitable work. I am always happy to hear of other events that strive to do the same, which is why I am very pleased to assist the Beaujolais Run 2006.”

Damon Hill patron of the DSA; “The Beaujolais Run 2006 is a fun event in aid of a fantastic cause. Through my 17 year old son Oliver, I am aware of the special love and joy that children with special needs can bring to a family. Having been
a patron of the DSA for a number of years, I fully support the causes that the DSA are fighting for. “

The DSA is the only charity in the UK focusing solely on all aspects of living successfully with Down’s syndrome. It exists to provide information and support for people with Down’s syndrome, their families, carers and those with a professional interest. It also seeks to improve knowledge and understanding of the condition and champion the rights of people with Down’s syndrome.