Goodwood’s S.F. Edge Trophy: A Thrilling Glimpse into Pre-1923 Open-Wheel Racing History

When open-wheel racing is mentioned, most conversations turn to IndyCar or Formula 1. While those series dominate modern motorsport, another form of open-wheel racing—pre-war racing—offers an even more thrilling spectacle. Picture spoked wheels, tall and skinny tires, and frames that flex more than a pair of fifth-grade eyeglasses. It sounds insane, yet it delivers on its promise.

The S. F. Edge Trophy, held annually during the Goodwood Members Meeting, is a prime example. This two-part, five-lap sprint race honors Selwyn Francis Edge, a British businessman and former bicycle racer who co-founded the De Dion-Bouton British and Colonial Ltd. import company in 1899. The cars competing are restricted to those built before 1923, featuring some of the weirdest, most wonderful, and surprisingly quick machines in automotive history.

Big engines were the norm in this era, as designers prioritized raw power over efficiency. More displacement often meant more speed. Among the regular contenders in the S. F. Edge Trophy is the Beast of Turin, a 1911 Fiat S76 powered by a 28.4-liter four-cylinder engine. Another iconic contender, though absent this year, is the 1905 Darracq 200HP, which lives up to its name—and its exposed chassis.

The racing is closer than one might expect, even in Goodwood’s ‘gentleman racing’ events. Drivers must not only navigate the track quickly but also compete wheel-to-wheel with precision. Having logged miles in an early speedster during tame time-speed-distance rally events, I can attest that sitting in a pickup truck, fully exposed, while watching those skinny tires slide even slightly is exhilarating. It’s not an experience I’d want annually, but watching those brave enough to take on the challenge is always a thrill.