Whilst most owners will cite their driving experience or the opportunity to customise their cars as being the joys of owning a classic Mini, it’s the sense of community and the kinship, that heightens the enjoyment of the Mini for people of all ages.
One of the reasons why we here at Mini Sport have established a leading reputation as global Mini specialists is thanks to our own community. Since our inception in 1967, we have been building alliances with Mini fans from around the world, regularly hosting and attending events that are designed to group as many enthusiasts as possible as we celebrate everything Mini.
With 2019 being the 60th anniversary of the first Mini rolling off the production line at Longbridge, it certainly has been an interesting time for the classic Mini community this year! So let’s take a look back at some of the events we’ve attended; perhaps they can work as inspiration for you to attend one next year?
Our Community of Mini Specialists.
HRCR Mini Sport Cup.
We are delighted to have our name on the world’s largest Mini Championship; the 2019 HRCR Mini Sport Cup celebrated both 60 years of the iconic Mini, as well as 10 years of the HRCR Mini Cup. Usually held over 8 rounds (7 events – barring any postponements) from March-September, rounds were held across the UK – with one special round held in Belgium. This year’s Tour of Flanders was its 60th anniversary; the perfect event to celebrate the Mini’s 60th at too!
The 2019 championship was particularly enthralling, as it went down to final stages of the final round – not only that but father was pitted against son in the battle for top place on the podium. Read all about this nailbiting finish in our dedicated blog post on The Cheviot Stages Rally – be warned, the drama within our report makes Coronation Street seem like CBeebies.
HRCR Open Day.
HRCR also run an annual ‘open day’ that gives fans an opportunity to celebrate the past, present and future of British motoring. Taking place at The British Motor Museum in Gaydon, Warwickshire, this brilliant venue houses the world’s largest collection of domestically-made cars for older fans to reminisce, and younger fans to learn. In 2019, we attended with all of the previous winners from The Mini Sport Cup, along with their Minis. If you’re interested in learning more about the event, visit the HRCR website for news on the 2020 staging, which is being held on the 11th January.
Mini Fest.
Held in September, the British Motor Club’s annual Mini Fest takes places at Stanford Hall in Leicestershire and is an event that is specifically aimed at all of the family to celebrate ‘all things Mini’. With the hall situated in historic grounds, it gives attendees a unique opportunity to explore one of the country’s best-preserved stately homes.
Our Mini specialists proved popular; our stall saw us hand out advice and assistance to everyone who was looking to improve the running of their classic Minis. Being the 60th anniversary, this event was particularly one for reminiscing; many a great story about driving old, restored or customised Mini’s were heard! If you’re interested in attending next year’s event (held on 20th September), check out BMC’s Mini Fest website.
Mini Action Day.
Another event that we regularly attend (and were proud to sponsor this year) is Mini Action Day. Mini owners from across the UK descend upon Castle Coombs Circuit in Chippenham, Wiltshire to view classic models in action, get advice on improving their own but also to join in with the celebrations as part of the classic Mini community.
Some of the events that take place during Mini Action Day 2019 were club displays (hundreds of Minis on display), Mini-only parking sections (for those attending in their classic models!), thrilling track action (featuring most Mini models) and charity passenger rides.
Usually held in September, information about 2020’s event will be forthcoming; in the meantime, why not ‘like’ our Facebook page for updates on this event and the many others we attend throughout the year?
The events outlined here are just a small sample that our Mini specialists attend throughout the year; just recently we have taken our Mini’s on the Kop Hill Climb and as part of the Mini’s 60th celebrations at Goodwood Revival, both with our good friend and Mini motorsport legend, Paddy Hopkirk.
Join Our Mini Community!
Ever since the halcyon days of the Mini, we have been there, providing parts and spares to fellow enthusiasts from all over the world. As a result, we have established a world-leading service in the supply of everything Mini – still going strong some 50 years later! As a family-owned business, we are proud to continue to uphold the same values of tradition – something that owning a Mini also represents.
To learn more about our services or the events we attend/organise, give our Mini specialists a call on 01282 778731 or send an e-mail at sales@minisport.com and we’ll be in touch as soon as possible.
The post Mini Sport: Building A Community of Mini Specialists Since 1967 appeared first on Mini Sport - The Blog.
