Home Drivers Shine at Owen Motoring Club’s Graham Hill Trophy Sprint
Report by Jeff Silver Photography
16 June 2026
Graham Hill Trophy
Glorious sunshine, close-fought competition and the smell of bacon butties provided the perfect backdrop for the Owen Motoring Club’s annual Graham Hill Trophy Sprint at on Sunday. Competitors would be tackling the challenging and entertaining figure-of-eight layout in front of an enthusiastic crowd.
Shenstone and District Car Club
Among the local interest were several drivers from the Shenstone and District Car Club. Spectators were keen to watch familiar faces take on the technical course. Car No. 53, Chris Horton, impressed throughout the day in his rapid Van Diemen RF88. Chris demonstrating the pace and precision that the lightweight single-seater is renowned for.
Equally determined was Richard Raybold in Car No. 36. Expertly guiding his ever-popular Austin Mini around the demanding circuit and delighting supporters with an energetic and committed performance.
The home drivers faced stiff opposition from Car No. 43, Paul Barnes. His Renault Clio RS200 proved a formidable contender as drivers battled against the clock on the unique layout.
With clear blue skies and excellent conditions throughout the day, competitors and spectators alike enjoyed a superb atmosphere at one of the Midlands’ favourite sprint venues. The welcoming spirit of the event was on display not only in the paddock but also among the next generation of motorsport enthusiasts.
Our budding nine-year-old motorsport photographer / petrolhead joined us on the day. She was made especially welcome and took full advantage of the opportunity to capture the action from around the course. Armed with a camera and plenty of enthusiasm, she managed to produce some impressive shots. Highlighting both the excitement of the event and the club’s friendly, family-oriented atmosphere.
As engines fell silent at the end of another successful meeting, the combination of competitive driving, warm weather and enthusiastic supporters ensured that the 2026 Graham Hill Trophy Sprint will be remembered as another excellent chapter in Curborough’s rich motorsport tradition.
