Your GSA stories: Rob Widdows Honoured

One of the founding fathers of Goodwood’s motorsport events, Rob Widdows, has been honoured by GRRC member Paul Smith. Paul, who has been a member since 2012, and first came to the Festival of Speed in 1996, wanted to join the Goodwood Supporters’ Association, but decided not to put his name on the Paddock Club plaque.

“I thought it would be better,” said Paul, “that the plaque had someone’s name on it from Goodwood, someone who had helped build what’s here – the GRRC and all these amazing events.” Rob has been one of Goodwood’s longest-standing supporters, and was the person that came up with the now-famous ‘Festival of Speed’ name. He worked in the press office for many years, and still helps with a variety of things, including the TV shows of the motorsport events.

He met Paul at Goodwood in August to see the plaque. “I was delighted to meet Rob,” said Paul afterwards, “someone who literally brought the Festival of Speed off the ground in the early days. It’s like seeing a part of motor racing heritage in real life! Every time I come to Goodwood, I’ll come to paddock 128. I feel like I am part of the family now!”

To find out more about the Goodwood Supporters’ Association and join, click here.