Summer’s newest motorsport event ‘Firlie Beacon’ roars into action

AutomotiveBlog was invited to experience a new motorsport event set in the lovely Sussex countryside within the Firle Estate.

It was a celebration of 90 years of Rally in the UK, featuring some of the most legendary cars from across the decades including:

• British Rally Champion, Colin McRae’s iconic 1997 rally-winning Subaru Impreza WRC.
• A special collection of cars driven by Rally Champion, Russell Brookes from the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s – including three Mk2 Escorts, two Opel Mantas, a Sierra Cosworth, Chevette HSR, together with a Group A Astra.
• Some of the fastest, most powerful, and sophisticated vehicles from Retro Rallycross & Group B.

Sprints were along the sweeping drive up to the country house, and rally drives through the village and up the steep hillside road, part of the South Downs. Those wanting to get close to the action could view the Rally course from the Village. We watched the rally cars whizz round a tight corner before taking on the hill – getting right up close to the action.

Alternatively, visitors could watch it all from the sprawling grounds on big screens, with all the action captured on drones. Food and drink was available to purchase with picnic tables throughout allowing visitors to sit back and enjoy the atmosphere in this stunning location with a bite to eat and drink.

This was Firle Beacon’s inaugural event, and hopefully one that will be an annual event of the future.