Lotus Festival regular Steve Griffiths will be heading to Brands Hatch this August with his ex-Nelson Piquet/ Satoru Nakajima Lotus 101 for what are sure to be flat-out demonstration runs.
Enthusiast Steve first attended the 2010 Lotus Festival with his newly-restored Camel-liveried 101, which took its place alongside an example of every Lotus F1 model. Returning to Snetterton the following year, his exuberant driving was a highlight for many visitors, revelling in the opportunity of driving the car flat-out along the Norfolk circuit’s straights.
The car has run at Brands Hatch before, most recently during a media day to promote the festival. The freezing temperatures on that day gave Steve the chance to practice his car control!
Originally raced in 1989, the 101 was designed by Frank Dernie to run the Judd V10 engine to the then new normally-aspirated regulations. Three-time champion Piquet was retained on the driving strength, along with Japan’s Nakajima and the team picked up several points finishes, with the Brazilian taking eighth place in the drivers’ championship.
“It’s a massive privilege to be invited back to Brands Hatch with 101/3 for the Lotus Festival,” Steve said. “It’s one of my favourite tracks and a great event to be involved with, and also the chance to drive such an iconic car at such an iconic circuit is a huge honour for myself and my team. We are all looking forward to 18 and 19 August!”
