Era Motorsport had the responsibility of managing a collection of seven Shadow Can-Am cars at the 81st Goodwood Members’ Meeting on 13-14 April. Prior to the demonstrations at the historic circuit, Era Motorsport was in charge of storing, transporting, testing, and providing trackside support for the Shadow fleet.
Q: Kyle, can you share your experience of managing these cars at Goodwood?
KT: Here at Era, we are taking care of all seven Shadows for James Bartell this weekend. We received them at the workshop, thoroughly inspected and made necessary repairs to the cars, and then transported them to Goodwood. Throughout the weekend, we will be running and overseeing their performance. It is a tremendous honor for us to be entrusted with the responsibility of looking after these cars, especially with renowned drivers such as Jackie Oliver, Tom Kristensen, Marino Franchitti, and myself behind the wheel. What I am most excited about is the reaction from the crowd when we start the engines. The sound of these cars is unlike anything they have ever heard. The powerful roar of the big block engines will definitely leave a lasting impression.
Q: Which Shadows have you personally driven so far?
KT: I have had the opportunity to drive the Mark 2, specifically the George Follmer car from Mosport. I had the chance to drive it at Road America about a year ago. I have also driven all of Jim Bartell’s Shadows at this point. The level of attention that both the Mark 1 prototypes and the Mosport car receive is truly remarkable.
Q: We’ve observed you previously drive a modern Oreca 07 LMP2 vehicle which Era currently operates in IMSA, how do these Shadows compare?
KT: It’s completely different! There is absolutely no similarity between the current LMP2 car and what we have here with this. Of course, the P2 car is an excellent vehicle to drive and it’s probably what Era is mostly known for. However, when I established Era Motorsport, it was primarily focused on the historic markets and we gradually expanded into the modern stuff. I do enjoy the modern cars, but it’s the historic ones that truly capture my heart. So I’m thrilled to be here whenever we have the opportunity to be at Goodwood. This is my third or fourth Members’ Meeting and I adore it. I’m simply delighted to be here and look at the crowds. It’s rare to have all seven Shadow cars gathered like they are here.
Q: How has it been for Jim Bartell to exhibit his collection of seven Shadows?
KT: I’m incredibly happy for Jim [Bartell] to have the opportunity here in Goodwood to showcase his collection. Jim is a fantastic individual, he has such a strong passion for the Shadow brand and the cars he possesses. It’s absolutely amazing to see him able to display them here in Goodwood. He was a bit overwhelmed when he witnessed the public’s response to them, so it’s going to be a lot of fun.
Q: Are there any specific challenges to managing historic cars compared to other vehicles?
KT: Yes, the main challenge is that they are far less reliable. If something breaks, we can’t simply go to the parts truck and buy a new one. We have to make the necessary repairs ourselves. Personally, I quite enjoy that aspect of it, but we are all fully aware that if something goes wrong with any of them, it’s up to us to fix it.
Q: And which car will you be driving at this demonstration?
KT: I will be driving the orange 1970 Mark 1 Shadow from George Follmer, who raced it at Mosport during its period. It only participated in one race, and I believe I hold the rather dubious title of being the only person to ever finish a race with this car.
Q: When you look at such an aggressive race car, how do you even operate it?
KT: With great difficulty! It’s one of those cars where everything makes much more sense when you’re in motion rather than just sitting here stationary.
Q: Why is it important to have these events to maintain the legacy of historic cars?
KT: Without historic cars, motorsport as we know it today wouldn’t exist. They are a vital part of history, representing some of the most iconic brands and drivers. It is incredibly important to keep the legacy alive and ensure that these old cars continue to race on the track. Seeing them being used is far more rewarding than seeing them confined to a museum.