All revved up and somewhere to go! - Knockhill Racing Circuit

Garry Stagg, Commentator at Knockhill Racing Circuit, who could only be described as a complete enthusiast and self confessed motorbike aficionado came along as a stand in for a colleague of his and by close of his presentation ensured members who were unaware of exactly what went on at the circuit had gained full a fuller knowledge.

Having worked at the Circuit for over 20 years, initially part time and more recently full time, Garry was able to explain in detail the history of the circuit from its modest beginnings to what is now one of the busiest circuits in the UK.  Indeed only recently, it has obtained a licence to race around the circuit in both directions which makes it rather unique.

The current ownership is very much a family affair and Garry was keen to stress that there is a real emphasis on 'family' right through all of the staff employed there.  Always forward looking Knockhill has worked hard to ensure that it has a multitude of things to offer and that it isn't just for 'petrol heads' alone.  There are, obviously, racing events such as British Super Bikes and British Touring Cars.  However, the circuit has also been involved in holding a Motorfair (catering for the car lovers but also for all other members of the family with exhibitions, entertainment, etc.) which became so popular it is now the official Scottish Motor Show.  In between such events, the Circuit caters for individuals and for corporate bodies by offering the opportunity to sample driving experiences in powerful saloons, rally cars, 4x4, single seaters, Ferrari/Aston Martin and - if you are brave enough - a two seater single seater racing car which is capable of getting from 0 to 60 in 2.6 seconds!!!!!

Whilst there is a lot of racing, there is a huge emphasis on safety and the most recent success at the Circuit has been with the introduction of Teen Drive which provides youngsters (especially 13-16yrs) with expert guidance and practical advice as to car maintenance; driving etiquette and road safety; and actual driving experience.  Whilst youngsters may not take advice from a parent or relative as to how to drive sensibly they have discovered that heed will generally be taken of advice imparted from a racing driver emphasizing that there is no place for 'racing' on the public road.

The Vote of Thanks was given by Rotarian, Ian Wilcock who confessed to have driven by the entrance of the Circuit on many an occasion blissfully unaware of what went on there.  However, he indicated an intention to mend his ways and to perhaps drop a hint for a present of a 'driving experience' there at the next opportunity to do so.