The 10th anniversary of the Hagerty Festival of the Unexceptional (FOTU) was marked with unprecedented success at Grimsthorpe Castle. Thousands of enthusiasts gathered to celebrate the ordinary yet extraordinary everyday family cars of the ‘Unexceptional Era.’ With over 2000 cars and more than 4000 guests in attendance, the festival reached new heights, solidifying its status as a cornerstone of the classic car community.
The Birth and Evolution of FOTU
Hagerty created the first Festival of the Unexceptional in 2014 as a tribute to the often overlooked family cars from 1968-1989. These vehicles, once ubiquitous on the roads, had largely faded from memory, earning the affectionate title of the ‘Unexceptional Era.’ Over the past decade, FOTU has grown in size and stature, drawing enthusiasts from around the globe and expanding its celebration of automotive history.
The 2024 Event: Bigger and Better
This year’s festival, held on the scenic grounds of Grimsthorpe Castle, was the largest yet. Thousands of FOTU cars adorned the front lawns, creating a vibrant tapestry of automotive history. The event featured a diverse range of activities, including two rounds of the Smith and Sniff gameshow, a live podcast recording, and the ever-popular Paul Cowland Pub Quiz, ensuring entertainment for all attendees.
A special highlight was the appearance of iconic cars like the last Austin Montego produced, courtesy of the British Motor Museum, and a showcase by event sponsor Sustain Fuels, who provided insights into synthetic fuel for modern classics.
The Concours: Celebrating the Unexceptional
The centerpiece of FOTU is undoubtedly the Concours, where 50 meticulously selected cars represent the finest examples of mundane motoring. This year, Lead Judge Danny Hopkins, Practical Classics Editor, praised the 2024 selection as the best in the event’s history.
- Highly Commended Vehicles:
- Lewis Dickson’s Citroen Visa: A 4,000-mile marvel, stored outside for years before being restored to glory.
- Christopher Lloyd’s Daewoo Lanos: One of only five left on UK roads, standing as a testament to rarity and resilience.
- Damian Brannigan’s Fiat Panda: A wonderfully standard 1993 model, appreciated for its authenticity.
- Special Awards:
- Chairman’s Award: Colin Corke’s Applejack Metro, a persistent entry over the past eight years, finally earning recognition.
- Retro Repmobile Award: Luca Alpert’s Nissan Primera, driven daily and traveled from Hanover, showcasing youthful enthusiasm for classic cars.
The Top Honors
Second place was awarded to Amy Jaine’s 1998 Renault Clio. This car, originally owned by her grandmother, carries a heartwarming family history. Rescued from being scrapped, it now serves as a vehicle for intergenerational joy, reflecting the festival’s spirit of preserving memories and making new ones.
The winner’s trophy went to Mitch Lewis for his pristine 1982 Toyota Hilux. This immaculate, unrestored workhorse, used on a fruit farm for much of its life, stood out for its originality and condition. Simply cleaned and driven to the event, the Hilux epitomized the essence of FOTU.
The Impact and Future of FOTU
Mark Roper, Managing Director of Hagerty International, celebrated the 10-year milestone, thanking enthusiasts and special guests alike. He emphasized FOTU’s role in securing the future of classic cars, noting the participation of many young enthusiasts. Hagerty’s commitment to supporting UK car culture ensures that both FOTU and its sister event, RADwood, will continue to grow and thrive in the years to come.
The 10th anniversary of the Hagerty Festival of the Unexceptional was a triumphant celebration of ordinary yet extraordinary vehicles. As FOTU looks to the future, it remains a testament to the enduring appeal of classic cars and the passionate community that keeps their stories alive.
