Goblin Car Racing

We have the fabulous Greenpower Education Trust’s Electric Car project and Goblin Car project running in our District. Again developing STEM skills from primary school through to age 24, designing, building and racing the cars around the UK. Our young people came first and placed well in their categories this year. It is a costly project so we are seeking groups of clubs located together to work together to support this project, eg Wirral clubs, Northwich Clubs, Liverpool Clubs, Crewe & Nantwich Clubs etc. Contact Hannah Graham or your AG for more information. Further information will be launched on the District Youth website soon.

Watch this space for information to follow on how to set up a Greenpower Project / Racing Team.

Aintree Race and Season Results 2025

Team Slipstream

The senior Hive race team began their day at 6 a.m. for their shortest journey this year to the Aintree Car Club track within the horse racing course. The weather forecast predicted heavy rain until mid-morning, and upon arrival at the paddock area, it appeared that adverse conditions could significantly impact the event. However, the team promptly set up the garage area and completed the final preparations on the race car. Following scrutineering, we were pleased to pass all safety checks and received positive feedback from Greenpower staff regarding our build quality.

Fortunately, the weather improved as the first F24 race (for ages 12 to 16) commenced. Despite a minor connector issue—which the team addressed efficiently—we unfortunately lost approximately 30 minutes of racing due to a delayed recovery. Nevertheless, this allowed us to test the car's full speed during the remaining hour, resulting in the fastest lap time on the 1.5-mile hilly circuit and an 18th-place finish out of 25 teams. Notably, our upgraded kit car outperformed several scratch-built competitors.

After a brief interlude, the F24+ race for participants aged 16 to 25 began, attracting entrants from across the UK as well as Poland and Portugal. Our strategy was to start at the back and utilise slipstreaming techniques on uphill sections, overtaking on flat and downhill segments. Demonstrating excellent driving skills, Nickoli achieved the fastest lap, and after 60 minutes, we secured first place in our class—our inaugural victory in the F24+ formula after only two events.

In the final F24 race, drivers Kayden, India, and Luke undertook the 90-minute challenge. The plan again was to leverage slipstreaming, particularly as wind increased on the long uphill straight. Although the motor started slightly overheating due to earlier races, it performed reliably for the initial five laps. After a driver change, we returned to the track, contending for the lead through lap 12. However, following the second driver change, a spike in motor temperature forced us to retire while running at the front. Ultimately, we were placed 12th out of 25, outperforming teams from Repton School, Cheltenham Ladies’ College, and several grammar schools. This achievement reflects the team's dedication to building and upgrading the senior car each Monday night and provides valuable insights for further improvements next season.

Following the conclusion of racing, all team members assisted with packing up, and the hire van from West Wallasey was prepared for a timely return. We are grateful to West Wallasey for their continued support of our initiative, which has been crucial for our participation in competitions nationwide.

We also wish to acknowledge the Mid Wirral Rotarians, whose financial assistance with entry fees and travel—as well as volunteering by Eryl, Pat, and John—has been invaluable to our project.

Special thanks go to Jim, Spencer, and John, Hive staff members who have been central to our operations. Their ongoing support over the past three years, despite numerous commitments, has been essential to the team’s success.

At the prize-giving ceremony, our performance in the F24+ category earned us first place in our class. Additionally, Greenpower awarded us the trophy for outstanding sportsmanship, recognising our assistance to fellow competitors. We also received the Aintree Motor Club Team Trophy for overall performance and conduct. While this trophy is to be returned next year, we look forward to competing for more first-place honours with future improvements.

As the season concludes, reflection shows exceptional outcomes: 10 trophies from four races, including fastest junior and senior car awards, and numerous Spirit of Greenpower recognitions. Out of 75 senior+ teams nationally, we qualified for the season finals at Lord March’s Goodwood Circuit in October and finished 10th overall. These results highlight the capabilities and commitment of The Hive Racing Team.