Biography
Chris Scragg
Hotelier by profession, competitor by instinct. At school a keen player of rugby and hockey and an accomplished athlete. In the 1980’s an off-road racer with AWDC, first in an Austin Gipsy, then a modified Land Rover. A very muddy and bumpy pastime racing against the clock. In the 1990’s an off-shore power boat racer starting in the cruiser class and winning the National Championships in a Hunton. Then a move into Class 2 in a Monohull with 2 x 600 bhp sabre diesels. Then a move into Class 2 cata-maran, again with 2 x 600 bhp sabre diesels, with speeds approaching 100 mph. Racing around the UK, highlights of the season winning the Guernsey Gold Cup racing over 2 legs against both Class 1 and 2 boats from all over Europe and the season culminating in the National Class2 Championships.
Another decade and another sport. 2005 saw a return to motor sport but on a smoother track. A chance meeting with Roger Bennington, Managing Director of Stratton Motor Company [Norfolk] at the 2004 Southampton Boat Show led to the acquisition of a 1971 Aston Martin DBS, prepared by Roger’s company with engine support from Arthur and Boysie Thurtle.
The first race at Mallory proved to be a most exciting experience, just days after obtaining my competitor’s licence. Results steadily improved throughout the season culminating in the last race weekend at Brands Hatch with a 5th place.
Big Changes in 2007
Having sold Marston Hotels for the shareholders in November 2006 and in the process put myself into retirement I decided to make Historic racing my full time hobby for the summer of 2007.
The plan is to fit in as many race meetings as possible and to this end the fleet has been increased a little!
The Aston Martin V8 I raced last year has benefited from a new engine.This engine has been prepared by Dave Jacks and his team at Aston Engineering and came off the dynno producing well in excess of 500 bhp. This represents a significant increase over last years engine so hopefully it will bring the desired increase in visits to the podium!
Added too the stable is an Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato built in 1961. Currently being prepared for racing by Stratton Motor Company this very special car is intended to compete in prestigious events such as the Masters Gentleman Drivers series.
For longer events such as the Spa six hour as well as shorter races I have had a 1962 E Type Jaguar 3.8 litre car prepared by Mike Wilkinson from Everton, Yorkshire.
Mike is also preparing a Jaguar Mk 2, also 3.8litre for saloon car events such as the Top Hat series.
To complete the Jaguar department Mike is also restoring for me an historically important 1951 Jaguar XK 120, which may be eligible for certain drumbrake events.
For anyone thinking of beginning Historic Racing or wanting a better car I have an Aston Martin DBS 1971, 5.3litre race ready, class winning car for sale as well as a class winning MGB Gt V8 1976.
In summary for 2007
Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato 1961
Aston Martin V8 1973
Jaguar E Type 1962
Jaguar Mk 2 1960
For further updates go to the Latest News page.