Maria Costello to compete for Classic BMW at Goodwood Revival

Maria Costello MBE is going back in time to compete in a golden era of motorsport at the Goodwood Revival.

Following a string of impressive results at the recent Isle of Man Classic TT, the Northamptonshire racer will this time compete on a hand shift 1929 BMW R 63 against a backdrop of period costumes, sights and entertainment befitting of the halcyon days of pre-1966 motorsport.

The event takes place this weekend (September 12-14) and along with all the other competitors and spectators, Costello will have a vintage makeover to ensure she looks the part both on and off the track.

She said: “I adore the Goodwood Revival meeting! I get completely in to the spirit of things with the help of the Vintage Hair Lounge who transform my helmet hair into amazing period hair-styles. The Classic Vault and Earls Barton Costume Hire have very kindly loaned me costumes for during the day and for the ball. So it’s the one race meeting that you’ll actually see me looking really feminine.”

“Of course the racing is what brings it all to life. Seeing classic machinery being raced really is something unique. It’s an event that you just find yourself immersed in, and I can’t wait to get there and take in all the action.”

Costello will team up with Claus Clausen on a BMW R 63 supplied by Classic BMW in the Barry Sheene Memorial Trophy, an endurance race that, including qualifying, takes place over the three days.

The R 63 had much success in competition in it’s day, making it a much sought after machine, and on the 19^th September in 1929, a machine ridden by Ernst Henne, based on this bike with the addition of a supercharger, achieved the world speed record of 216.75kph. Claus and Maria will also be hoping to bring more success to the BMW marque.

“I was lucky enough to try the hand shift last year in Slovakia. It’s going to be pretty special racing it at Goodwood. I have to thank Classic BMW, Sebastian and Claus for giving me this fantastic opportunity,” she added.

“This unique experience wouldn’t happen without the help of so many people and I need to thank Classic BMW, Linda & Alica at www.classicvault.co.uk, Earls Barton Costume Hire www.costumehireeb.moonfruit.com for the outfits, including the ball costume and Sharon and the Vintage Hair Lounge team www.vintagehairlounge.com for making me look the part.”

To follow Maria’s progress and to keep up to date with upcoming events, please visit her website:http://www.costelloracing.com