Jaguar E-Type Challenge

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1963 Jaguar E-Type

1963 Jaguar E-Type

More than 50 years after it was launched, the Jaguar, E-Type is still revered as the best looking sports car in British automotive history. The E-Type Challenge celebrates a true motoring icon. Conceived by Jaguar Heritage and the Historic Sports Car Club to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the E-Type in 2011, the initial plan was for the Challenge to be a one year only series to make the special anniversary. However, in response to competitor demand, it has been continued for a third season and the 2013 campaign kicks off at the Donington Historic Festival with a double header for an excellent field of racing E-Types.
1965 Jaguar E-Type

1965 Jaguar E-Type

Over the years, many E-Types were heavily modified in British Club Racing but the regulations for the Challenge dictate that cars must run to one or two closely controlled specifications: either as raced internationally in period or in standard specification. The drivers and teams responded magnificently and the result is a grid of cars in true period trim. The Pearson family is inextricably linked to the Jaguar marque and it is John who flies the family flag this weekend as a podium contender with his familiar E-Type. Meanwhile hotelier Chris Scragg is another quick eacer with a passion for Jaguars and local racers Jamie Boot and Mike Wrigley are equally strong contenders. Peak District based Wrigley has won at Donington in many different cars and would love to add an E-Type victory to his record. However, three cars, each due to be shared by two drivers, should set the absolute pace, particularly with the star driver on board. The partnership of Sandy Watson and formr F3 ace Martin O'Connell is perhaps the strongest of all, but Stefan Ziegler has Le Mans racer Sam Hancock alongside and the regular pairing of Martin Melling and seasoned all-rounder Jason Minshaw has the pace to win again. 2013 Donington Historic Festival Jaguar E-Type Challenge GalleryTags:, ,