Hagerty has been offering young drivers opportunities to drive vintage vehicles, especially those equipped with manual transmissions, for several years in the United States and Canada. In April, the British version of the program launches under the StarterMotor Driving Experience banner.
The inaugural event takes place April 14 at Bicester Heritage but another already is being planned for July 13 at the British Motor Museum at Gaydon.
The initial program at Bicester Heritage will be open to 20 people aged 12 to 17 and will include several activities, including learning to drive a classic vehicle, navigating a special road stage, and riding as a passenger in a military tank (Bicester Heritage is a former Royal Air Force training base).
“Classic cars provide enjoyment to millions around world, they ignite a passion in us and create a sense of belonging,” Angus Forsyth, Hagerty managing director, said in the event announcement.
“As enthusiasts, collectors, owners and advocates of all matter of classic cars we get to enjoy classic cars on the road. Through the Starter Motor Driving experience, we can to pass on this enjoyment, inspire the next generation and in turn protect our automotive history.”
The inaugural StarterMotor event is being done in conjunction with the Alvis Owner Club, which is providing member vehicles, and the Federation of British Historic Vehicle Clubs.
Hi Larry,
Firstly, I’d like to thank you for the amount you have recently covered Beaulieu and our events in your column.
However, I’ve noticed in your article about the StarterMotor Driving Experience that you refer to the National Motor Museum at Gaydon, which is obviously mixing us up with the British Motor Museum there. Would you be able to please update the post and make the amend.
Thanks for your help, which is much appreciated. Just let me know if I can help you with anything in the future.
Best regards,
Jane Riddiford, PR Manager, the National Motor Museum at Beaulieu
In response to Jane’s comment, we’ve gone back and fixed the facts in the story. — Larry