The Ford Mustang has often graced Goodwood Members’ Meetings, celebrating speed and power. The Mustang has dominated the circuit, from the Gordon Spice Trophy’s BOSS Mustangs to the V8 Pierpoint Cup’s all-American competition.
This tradition takes a milestone with a race at Goodwood Motor Circuit 60 years after the Mustang’s introduction. A 45-minute exciting race between up to 30 Pony Cars is promised. Top Formula 1 and Sportscar drivers will pilot these cars as part of Goodwood’s two-driver challenges.
Ken Miles Cup honors a sculptor who created some of Ford’s iconic designs. Miles led Ford’s GT40 campaign with Carroll Shelby, culminating in Le Mans victories from 1966 to 1969. This automobile history was shown in “Ford vs. Ferrari,” starring Matt Damon and Christian Bale.
Miles did not limit his engineering talent to the GT40. The Shelby GT350R Mustang, a legendary Ford coupe, was born from his efforts. This exceptional car cemented Shelby’s reputation for making Ford’s best, creating a relationship between the two brands that lasts today.
This Cup will be one of many races and exhibitions planned for a weekend of automotive spectacles. The 80th Members’ Meeting in 2023 featured stunning GT1 vehicles from the 2000s, racing Porsche 911s, and the powerful Brabham BT52, with more attractions announced in the coming months.
The Gordon Murray Automotive T.33 Spider and Bentley Continental GT Le Mans Collection were also unveiled. New supercars like the McLaren Senna GTR and GMA T.50 have debuted at previous gatherings.
The 81st Members’ Meeting on April 1314, 2024, is anticipated. GRRC Members have tickets, and Fellows will get them on August 31.
Joining the GRRC is the only way to see the Ken Miles Cup and additional races at 81MM for fans. Photographers Jayson Fong, Mark Beaumont, Jochen Van Cauwenberge, and Steve Tarrant will record a great weekend for motor enthusiasts.
Our Reader’s Queries
Who really won the 1966 Le Mans race?
At the 24 Hours of Le Mans, Bruce McLaren, Henry Ford II, and Chris Amon stood on the victory stand. According to Manney and photographic evidence, Miles deliberately slowed down at the finish line, allowing McLaren to pass him and cross the checkered flag at around 50 mph.
Did Ken Miles actually win Le Mans?
In 1966, Miles emerged victorious at both the 24 Hours of Daytona and the 12 Hours of Sebring, while also securing a commendable second place at Le Mans. However, tragedy struck later that year when Miles lost his life in a fatal crash while testing Ford’s J-Car. His untimely demise left a void in the racing world that is still felt to this day.
Did Ford really finish 123?
The story of Ford GT Mark II automobiles finishing 1-2-3 at LeMans started over three years ago. It’s a tale of hard work and dedication from numerous individuals who poured their hearts into a project that utilized the vast resources of Ford Motor Company and several specialized firms. The finish was a remarkable achievement, and a testament to the team’s unwavering commitment to excellence.
Why did McLaren win the 1966 Le Mans?
At the end of the race, McLaren’s car crossed the finish line just before Miles’s car. Despite being upset about the team orders, Miles lifted off and allowed McLaren to finish ahead. It’s worth noting that McLaren had covered more distance during the race, thanks to their starting position.
