After a week of gloomy, cloudy skies punctuated by bouts of mist and rain, the weather gods finally smiled on the Blackdown Hills. Dunkeswell Raceway, nestled in this picturesque Devon setting, basked in the rare winter sun beneath a backdrop of overcast skies. The damp circuit initially greeted the arriving karters with a challenge, but as the day unfolded, the low winter sun worked its magic, helping a dry racing line gradually emerge. Off the racing line, however, the damp surface remained treacherous, catching out several drivers and resulting in dramatic spins and some bone-jarring kerb-jumping moments.
One of the most striking aspects of the day was the sheer number of new faces on track. It seems many were taking advantage of the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the track ahead of the 2025 racing calendar. Dunkeswell’s charm, with its scenic surroundings and engaging layout, continues to draw enthusiasts eager to test their mettle.
Adding to the atmosphere, the adjacent airfield was a hive of activity. Small Cessna aircraft buzzed in and out, while parachutists gracefully descended from the skies, their colorful canopies contrasting beautifully with the muted tones of the overcast day. Helicopters occasionally joined the aerial ballet, their rhythmic thrum adding to the symphony of sound surrounding the circuit.
Capturing the day's action through my lens was a true pleasure. The interplay of light and shadow, the concentration etched on the karters' faces, and the dynamic energy of machines pushed to their limits all came together to create a memorable day of photography. I hope my images do justice to the racers and the spirit of Dunkeswell—a place where the passion for motorsport and the joy of flight coexist in perfect harmony. Dunkeswell once again delivered an enjoyable and visually rewarding experience, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting 2025 season.
"Ready to see the action for yourself? Check out the full gallery of images capturing the excitement and drama of the day. Click the link below to dive into the highlights!"
https://www.paulmitchellphotographer.co.uk/dunkeswell-raceway/dec-2024