After what felt like an eternity, American SpeedFest finally returned to Brands Hatch for its ninth edition, and I was thrilled to be a part of it. Like so many other events, the previous one had been cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the ensuing lockdowns. So, when SpeedFest IX rolled around, the excitement was palpable. Not only was I back at one of the UK’s most iconic motorsport venues, but I also had the privilege of being involved in the event in a way that made it even more special.
Meeting Alberto Naska: The YouTuber-Turned-Racer
One of the biggest highlights of the weekend was meeting Alberto Naska, a rising star in the Whelen Euro Series. For those unfamiliar, Naska is a well-known YouTuber and content creator with a passion for motorsport that has translated into success on the track. His journey from making racing videos to becoming a fully-fledged competitor is an inspiring story. Watching him race and then having the chance to meet him in person was a surreal experience for me. He’s as down-to-earth in person as he seems online, which made the encounter even more memorable.
Cheering on Vladimiros Tziortzis and Thomas Krasonis
This year’s SpeedFest also felt extra special because two compatriots, Vladimiros Tziortzis and Thomas Krasonis, were participating full-time in the Whelen Euro Series. For those unfamiliar, Tziortzis is a Cypriot driver who has made a name for himself with his impressive performances, while Krasonis, from Greece, is another promising talent climbing the ranks of European motorsport. Watching these two race at Brands Hatch made me feel an extra sense of pride, knowing that they were representing my part of the world on such a prestigious stage. Seeing them compete at such a high level only added to the excitement of the weekend.
Marshaling at Paddock Hill Bend
What made this SpeedFest even more unique for me was my role as one of the marshals at the infamous Paddock Hill Bend. If you know Brands Hatch, you’ll know that this corner is a beast – a steep, downhill right-hander that has seen its fair share of drama over the years. Being positioned here gave me a front-row seat to all the racing action, from thrilling overtakes to near-misses. I’ve always loved the atmosphere of SpeedFest, but being directly involved in ensuring the event ran smoothly made it a truly unforgettable experience.
The Perfect Weather
Adding to the magic of the weekend was the weather. With the sun blazing and temperatures hovering around 30°C, it was the kind of summer day that seemed tailor-made for motorsport. The sunny spells and warmth added to the festive atmosphere of SpeedFest, with crowds enjoying the American-themed activities, car displays, and on-track action. Although it was a hot day, the vibe was electric, and there was no place I would rather have been.
A Return to Normality
After the chaos and uncertainty of the pandemic, SpeedFest IX felt like a long-awaited return to normality. The roar of engines, the buzz of the crowd, and the camaraderie among fans and participants all felt even more special after such a long hiatus. It was a reminder of the joy that motorsport can bring and the sense of community that events like this foster.
In conclusion, American SpeedFest IX at Brands Hatch was everything I had hoped for and more. From meeting Alberto Naska to supporting Vladimiros Tziortzis and Thomas Krasonis and being part of the action as a marshal, it was a weekend I will never forget. The perfect weather was the icing on the cake, making the entire experience even more enjoyable. After the challenges of the past few years, SpeedFest IX was a welcome reminder of the passion and excitement that motorsport brings to all of us.
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