Donington Park to celebrate 100th anniversary of Bentley’s first Le Mans win

2003 Bentley Speed 8 chassis 0004/1

This year’s Donington Historic Festival will celebrate the 100th anniversary of Bentley’s first win at the 24 Hours of Le Mans with appearances from the marque’s historic racing cars. There will be the chance to see Bentleys including the 2003 Speed 8 chassis 0004/1 and 2000 EXP Speed 8 Le Mans GT prototype chassis 002/1 both on track and up close on display.

Bentley’s win at Le Mans in 1924 was significant for being only the second year that the famous race was staged. Further victories followed in a spectacular four years of dominance between 1927 and 1930, with Bentley Boys Woolf Barnato, Dudley Benjafield, Sir Henry ‘Tim’ Birkin, Frank Clement, Sammy Davis, John Duff, Glen Kidston and Bernard Rubin statuses as legends being cemented. Five wins appeared to be enough for Bentley as it withdrew from Le Mans in 1931, returning 70 years later in 2001 before winning again in 2003.

Last year’s Donington Historic Festival brought in themed Q&A panel sessions which saw saw figures from the world of motorsport discussing the career of Ayrton Senna. This year’s sessions will focus on the Bentley Le Mans centenary.

Across the two days, there promises to be race action, track appearances and parades, open access paddock and pitlane walks, a trade village and hundreds of classic cars on display. Visitors will also be treated to daily flypasts from a Spitfire and Hurricane from the Royal Air Force Battle of Britain Memorial Flight.

Donington Historic Festival takes place on May 4th and 5th. Advance discounted ticket prices start at just £26 for a one-day adult (16+) entry.

2000 Bentley EXP Speed 8 Le Mans GT prototype chassis 002/1

words: Mike Booth
pictures: Donington Historic Festival