A MOUTH-WATERING selection of historic racers were put through their paces at Rockingham, ahead of the annual Goodwood Revival meeting, as part of the Northamptonshire circuit’s first general test days that incorporated classic sports cars.

Seven historic cars, including five pre-66 Formula One cars and two E-type Jaguars, took part in a dedicated session, as part of their preparation for the world’s most popular historic motor race meeting.

Testing on Rockingham’s 1.94-mile International Super Sportscar Circuit, the cars conducted final shakedown runs to assess suspension setup and reliability, and gave drivers the chance to get to know the cars before race day.

Rockingham Chief Executive Peter Hardman was among the drivers taking part in the four sessions. He said: “It was great to be able to use Rockingham’s technically complex International Super Sportscar Circuit, and it gave us a great idea of each car’s capabilities before we headed down to West Sussex.”

Peter competed in this year’s Goodwood Revival event, partnering Gregor Fisken in the RAC TT Celebration race, with the pairing claiming seventh place in their Jaguar E-type FHC, prepared by Valley Motorsport.

“Looking forward, we’re growing Rockingham’s involvement with historic racing and testing,” explained Peter. “Our facilities and location allow teams and owner drivers from all over the UK cost effective access to a world-class track.”

With more than 30 pit garages built to full international specification available, there is plenty of space for teams to work on their cars before hitting the ISSC, which is the preferred circuit for all of Rockingham’s race events.

The mixture of long straights, sweeping high-speed bends including the infamous Turn 1 on the banked-oval and technically challenging infield section provide a great circuit combination for historic cars.

The track is supported by world-class facilities including an Indianapolis-style cold pit lane for refuelling as well as a hot pit lane, fuel station and state-of-the-art equipped medical centre. Broadband wireless internet connection and full catering are available on request.

Testing is for MSA and FIA Race Licence-holders driving race-prepared cars only and is ideal for those who need additional track time for set-up and preparation prior to a race meeting or to shake-down post event.

Test dates available for the remainder of 2013 are October 4 and November 15, or exclusive track hire is also available.