24 November, 2016
The winners of the 2016 International Historic Motoring Awards have been announced, in an evening unlike any other in its 6-year history.
The event left tradition behind by changing location from St Pancras, to London’s stunning Guildhall. This larger venue became home to the biggest names in the industry, acclaimed judges and the finalists.
But a change in surroundings wasn’t the only change this year. The biggest surprise of the night came when the winner of the IMHA’s highest accolade was announced.
Each year, a lifetime achievement award is given to an individual that has made a real difference to the world of motoring. This year, the award wasn’t won by someone, it was won by somewhere.
America’s Bonneville Salt Flats Land Speed Racing took the highest accolade of the night, to celebrate over a century of inspirational achievements in a unique location.
Illustrious company
In the past 5 years, this award has been won by Sir Stirling Moss, Lord Montagu of Beaulieu, Murray Walker OBE, Willy Cave and most recently Dan Gurney. So this year will go down in history as the first time the award was not won by an individual.
When asked about the Salt Flats’ success, Geoff Love, Octane Publish Director, said: “I can think of nowhere else that has inspired so many people to such a level, and this award goes to the place itself and to all of those enthusiasts who have endeavoured to take a minute, a second or a fraction of a second off a speed record there.”
Thirteen awards were given out in total during the evening, in an array of categories.
The public were able to nominate their suggestions for every category, before a panel of esteemed judges made the final decisions. This year’s judging panel featured former World Sportscar Champion Jochen Mass, car designer Peter Stevens and Le Mans icon Derek Bell.
Here at Footman James, we were proud to sponsor the Club of the Year award, which was won by the fantastic De Dion Bouton Club UK.
The club, set up in 2006, caters for all De Dion Bouton vehicles and boasts members around the world.
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