The silence was surreal.
After a full day of shooting at the track and in the paddocks – being soaked to the skin and taking 20,000 steps – exhaustion had clouded my mind after Saturday’s 2024 Goodwood Revival.
It may be a cliché, but ‘an attack on the senses’ perfectly describes the hustle and bustle at Goodwood. The hustle and bustle obviously adds atmosphere and context to my reporting. No one wants to see an empty event, and Revival is really for the people.
Still, as an enthusiast, I sometimes wished that the crowds would disappear despite their lively presence. It’s hard to appreciate the precious metal when a swarm of onlookers and mechanics surround it, blocking my shots and getting grumpy when I push past it.
This year I lingered as one of the last people in the media tent, a few colleagues scattered around the site and the cleaning crew chatted for company. It was dark, it was cold and I was fading. It was time to go home.
But just as I stepped out of the tent and was talking to another photographer, I felt a surge of energy. Imagine my awe when I turned the corner and came across an empty paddock lit up at night.
The tannoy, the hustle and bustle and the revving engines were all gone, replaced by a soothing silence broken only by raindrops on the awnings and conversations in the distance. I was free to wander around and explore the cars in the peace and quiet I so desperately needed.
I grabbed my camera and wandered around, taking in the sights. Rain-splattered noses and chrome details glowed under the lights.
Far from a major city, light pollution was minimal and the contrast against the dark sky felt cinematic. It was impossible not to focus on the cars, especially the ones that shone in vibrant colors.
Although I was almost alone, dedicated mechanics were working late into the night to fix mechanical mishaps or fine-tune the settings for Sunday’s final races. The guards scattered everywhere were a mixed bunch. Some were engrossed in the vintage machines, others were tucked away trying to stay warm.
VIP guests enjoyed their own private shuttle service between the Goodwood Hotel and the after-parties across the street, which explained the squadron of Rolls-Royce Cullinans lined up in Parc Fermé with their lights on. Quite intimidating.
The walk back to my car took me through the shopping and party village, where the evening came to an end. Music, drinks, food and classic cars on display obviously ensure a great time. However, I emphasize the importance of not driving under the influence.
For an in-depth look at the action from Goodwood Revival 2024, visit my coverage from earlier this month. I hope you enjoy my photos from the evening after the race, a surreal experience that still feels like a dream to me.
Mario Christou
Instagram: mcwpn, mariochristou.world
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