Only launched this year, judging by the turnout at the second Breakfast Club meeting Goodwood has another success on its hands. This month’s theme was Italian, and amongst the many cars braving the April showers were a Ferrari 250 GT SWB and two 575 Superamericas.

Even though the weather wasn’t exactly Mediterranean, by 9.00 am a large number of Italian exotica had gathered on the outside of the motor racing circuit, by the Vitra Café with overspill parking in what is used as the ‘period’ competitors area at the Revival. There was a full range of cars from Alfa Romeo, Lancia, Fiat, Maserati and Ferrari, including many examples of the latest machines from Maranello such as the F430 and 575 MM.

The idea behind the meeting is to give enthusiasts a chance to meet up over the summer at themed days on the first Sunday of the month. As with anything Goodwood Events put on, the organisation was exemplary and the efficient marshalling sorted out the non-Italians (under the bridge and into the paddock), and top-class catering was on hand at the Vitra café.

It is testament to the remarkable effect of the Revival that most ‘Breakfasters’ were smartly turned out in cars that had clearly been well-prepared and polished, the atmosphere was spot-on, and it was a super opportunity to see some great cars in just the right surroundings.

And it wasn’t all super-exotica. There were some nice examples of Fiat 500s and a marvellous Multipla minibus.

Cars start to arrive early and the event runs to midday. It’s thoroughly recommended and you can see the dates for the rest of the year below, as well as on the dedicated website www.goodwood.co.uk/breakfastclub

Goodwood will of course being holding the Festival of Speed at Goodwood House on 7, 8, 9 July, and the wonderful Revival at the motor racing circuit on 1, 2, 3, September. Full details as always on Classic Driver, and don’t forget to book some tickets in advance for both these events (none available on the gate remember!) at www.goodwood.co.uk.

2006 Scheduled Goodwood Breakfast Club Meetings:

May 7: Pre-War Sports Cars
June 4: Supercars
July 2: Classic British Cars
August 6: German Sports Cars
September - not applicable (Goodwood Revival)
October 1: Americana

Text: Steve Wakefield
Photos: Classic Driver