This past weekend marked the grand finale of the 2024 British GT and GB3 Championships at the iconic Brands Hatch Grand Prix circuit. It was a thrilling conclusion to the season, with intense racing action and a buzzing atmosphere. For the first time since 2009, the British GT Championship wrapped up in Kent, and I had the privilege of being a part of it not only as a spectator but as a marshal.
Marshalling at Post 5: The Druids Hairpin Entry
My post for the weekend was the famous Druids Hairpin entry, a tricky spot that always delivers some dramatic moments. This event was no exception – we had our fair share of incidents and vehicle recoveries, keeping us on our toes! One of the highlights was making it on live TV during one of these recoveries, a proud moment for the whole team. The position gave us a close-up view of the action, with cars hurtling into the tight hairpin, challenging their braking points and battling for position.
I had the absolute pleasure of marshalling alongside Sue, an experienced marshal whose energy and expertise made the weekend even more enjoyable. We also looked after a Taster Day Marshal, who handled themselves admirably. I’m confident they’ll be back in full capacity soon – it’s always great to see new marshals join the ranks and embrace the world of motorsport volunteering.
Pit Lane Highlights
One of the perks of the event was witnessing a pit stop rehearsal by Garage 59. Their team was sharp, precise, and fast – everything you’d expect from a top-tier GT team. It was incredible to see the level of preparation and coordination that goes into each stop, from tyre changes to fuelling up. I felt lucky to get a glimpse behind the scenes, where teamwork and split-second decisions can make all the difference.
The Championship Showdowns
The paddock and garages were jam-packed with GT cars from some of the most prestigious manufacturers. Aston Martin, BMW, Lamborghini, McLaren, and Mercedes-AMG were all in the mix, fighting it out for the GT3 title in the final two-hour race on Sunday. The atmosphere was electric, with teams and drivers giving everything to secure the 2024 crown.
Over in the GB3 Championship, the action was just as intense. The young drivers in the junior feeder series, GB4, put on an impressive show, demonstrating the skill and determination needed to make it in the world of open-wheel racing.
Closing Thoughts
Marshalling at such a high-profile event is always an honour, and the 2024 finale at Brands Hatch did not disappoint. From the thrilling racing to the camaraderie among fellow marshals, it was a weekend to remember. And making it onto live TV during a recovery was a fantastic bonus! If you ever get the chance to experience motorsport up close, whether as a spectator or a marshal, I highly recommend it!
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