generations trophy: A family affair

A car lover’s passion often comes from their family. So, the idea of sharing a race with the person who sparked that enthusiasm is a dream for many of us. Some have done it, like the Andretti, Bell, Mansell or Magnussen families at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The Motor Racing Legends organisation is going one step further by offering a series dedicated to this type of team: the Generations Trophy.

Each team in the Generations Trophy must consist of two drivers from different generations: father or mother with daughter or son; grandfather or grandmother with grandchild; uncle or aunt with niece or nephew. Siblings and couples are not eligible. 

One-Make Racing with the Iconic MGB

All Generations Trophy teams will compete in pre-1966 MGB models. A true symbol of the swinging sixties, the MGB was an obvious choice for this one-make series. Few cars better represent the spirit of family heritage and the democratisation of driving pleasure. The MGB boasts a proud motorsport pedigree, including a class win in the 2.0-litre GT category at the 1963 24 Hours of Le Mans and a 5th-place finish at the 1964 Monte Carlo Rally with the Morley brothers.

While the MGB enjoys a genuine appreciation among collectors, the relatively high number produced keeps prices at a reasonable level. That’s not its only advantage, as it’s also robust and reliable, requiring very little maintenance, and famously great to drive.

The Generations Trophy will feature a 60-minute race at each meeting, preceded by free practice and qualifying sessions of 30 minutes each, for a total of two hours driving time.

The top three overall finishers will be rewarded, as will each class winner.

Mandatory driver changes during the race will occur between the 25th and 35th minute, with the length of the pit stop varying based on the combined age of the driver pairing, listed below.

Pitstop times:

More than 100 years: 2 minutes
100-80 years: 2m 15s
79-60 years: 2m 30s
60 years or fewer: 2m 45s
Crew including an elite driver: 4 minutes

Classes:

Next Gen: one generation apart
Dynasty: two generations apart
Mixed Gen: mixed-gender crews
Elite: crews featuring a professional or highly experienced driver

The first meeting of the Generations Trophy is scheduled for 18th-19th October, during the Silverstone GP meeting. Entries are open in the app, at a cost of £1,150 (£950 for MRL members).