For classic car enthusiasts and motorsport aficionados, springtime heralds a special event: the Land’s End Trial. This legendary competition, which has been a staple of the trials calendar since 1908, invites participants to tackle some of the toughest terrain in the UK, all while showcasing their driving prowess and the capabilities of their vehicles.
What Exactly is the Land’s End Trial?
Originally known as the London to Land’s End Reliability Trial, this grueling 24-hour event spans over 200 miles, challenging around 300 competitors to conquer 20 steep hills. The ultimate goal? To earn a coveted gold medal by reaching each summit. It’s not just about speed; it’s about skill, endurance, and a bit of luck, too.
The Land’s End Trial is one of three classic trials organized by the Motor Cycling Club (MCC), the oldest motorsport club in Britain. The others are the Exeter Trial in January and the Edinburgh Trial in September, which, despite its name, takes place in the Peak District. Each event presents its own unique challenges, but none quite match the historical significance and rugged terrain of the Land’s End Trial.
A Look Back at the 1921 Trial
The 1921 edition of the Land’s End Trial is particularly noteworthy. Autocar, which has been covering the event since its inception, didn’t follow it from start to finish until this year. The trial was already stirring controversy before it began, thanks to a new rule requiring cars with no more than 12 horsepower to ascend the notoriously steep Porlock Hill at an average speed of 18 mph. Many spectators flocked to the hill to witness this seemingly impossible feat, and the media was quick to voice concerns about the safety of such a regulation.
Despite the apprehension, the trial drew a significant number of entries, with 58 out of 64 cars lining up at Cranford Bridge (now near Heathrow Airport) to start their journey at half past midnight. Picture this: a motley crew of competitors, clad in their best driving gear, braving the cold and dark, with only their headlights to guide them along narrow, often unpaved roads.
The Challenges of the Course
As the competitors navigated the course, they faced not only the physical demands of the hills but also the unpredictable weather. Many wished they had packed an extra coat as they battled through icy mist and limited visibility. Porlock Hill proved to be a formidable challenge, yet 26 drivers managed to meet the required speed, showcasing remarkable skill and determination.
But the trials didn’t stop there. The next major obstacle was Lynton Hill, where drivers had to maintain an even more strenuous average speed of 19.4 mph. The conditions were treacherous, with rain making the surface slippery and difficult to navigate. Spectators lined the route, eagerly awaiting the arrival of mud-splattered cars and weary drivers. Some competitors even had to shed passengers to make it to the top, while others faced mishaps that tested their resolve.
Remarkable Performances
Among the many stories from the 1921 trial, a few standout performances captured the crowd’s attention. VG Lloyd’s impressive speed in his two-cylinder Carden astounded onlookers, while Lionel Martin, co-founder of Aston Martin, showcased his new production model with flair. The challenges of the course led to some unexpected moments, like a driver managing to clear a hill on a flat tire.
Ultimately, 42 competitors made it to the finish line at Land’s End, including HJG Smith in his 10hp Eric-Campbell, who had to navigate with a broken tie rod. His perseverance earned him a gold medal, along with 22 other worthy competitors. The general consensus was that this trial was one of the best yet, with a level of merit that made the rewards all the more satisfying.
The Legacy of the Land’s End Trial
Since that historic 1921 event, the Land’s End Trial has only grown in reputation, with more challenging sections added over the years, including the infamous Beggars Roost in 1922 and Blue Hills in 1936. Today, it continues to attract the best trials drivers and their vehicles, pushing them to their limits and creating unforgettable moments in motorsport history.
What’s the takeaway from this storied event? The Land’s End Trial isn’t just about the cars or the competition; it’s about the spirit of adventure, the thrill of overcoming challenges, and the camaraderie among competitors. Whether you’re a seasoned participant or a curious spectator, there’s something truly special about being part of this enduring tradition. So, if you ever get the chance, grab your coat, head to Cornwall, and witness the magic of the Land’s End Trial for yourself.