‘Superformance’ performs at Goodwood  

The off-season came to a sudden end this weekend with Greenpower racing starting again in full, with team ‘Superformance’ making the long journey down to the iconic Goodwood race track on Sunday 8 May. The early morning leave of 6.00am always makes for a rude awakening, but the team were in a jovial mood. This would be the first time to drive and experience Greenpower for the new team of Year Seven pupils: Pru Goodison, Verity Bond Evans, Amelia Gutteridge, Alfie Ross, Mikhail Ashton, Edward Roberts, Edward Richardson and Peter Jackson.

The team arrived safely and passed scrutineering as quickly as possible, before heading out onto track for their first taste of driving. Following limitations of teams and spectators over the past two seasons due to Covid, it was a pleasure to see the 115 teams entered, plus spectators creating a buzz around the track. After one flying lap each in the practice session, the time to race quickly came around.

First up was Alfie who was allocated a starting grid slot in the top third. Surrounded by 87 cars and hundreds of people watching. He had an excellent start, gaining places and holding his track position well. It should not be underestimated the potential for ‘carnage’ off the start line, with so many cars starting at the same time – it is quite a spectacle to behold! After a relatively slow pit stop, with the new team showing their inexperience, Mikhail took to the track for the middle leg. He was able to hold position, with the team firmly now in the top 10. This was fantastic for a new team and our first outing.

For those not familiar with Greenpower, the racing format consists of a 90-minute race. Two driver changes have to take place in this time and the two 12V batteries powering the car are not allowed to be charged or changed during the race. This makes for an interesting last section of the race as all competitors’ batteries start to fade. Verity took on the anchor leg, arguably the hardest and potentially most tactical. When the chequered flag came down, we had finished 6th – a fantastic achievement.

After a break for lunch and the older team’s race, the second race began. With a Spitfire roaring overhead and the sun blazing it really couldn’t have been a better experience. This time it was the turn of Amelia and the two Edwards. Again, they drove consistently well, ably supported by the rest of the team. Pru took on the mantle of chief pit manager making everyone laugh when on the radio, encouraging the drivers around. We were rewarded with another 6th place. These results are a remarkable achievement for what we believe to be one of the oldest cars on the track (we are now building a new car). Mr Holt’s tinkering and fine adjustments clearly paid off! 

Huge thanks must go to the Design and Technology team; Mr Holt, Mr Stuart and Mr Boss who all gave of their time and energy to make the trip happen. The team look forward to the next race, this time at a new venue of Mallory Park, Leicestershire.

Mr Gwilym Batchelder

Head of Design & Technology