Mazda MX-5 drivers in the UK recently pushed their skills to the limit during an innovative nighttime driving event at Trac Mon Circuit in Anglesey, Wales.
Organised by Mission Motorsport - The Forces Motorsport Charity, the event challenged participants to navigate the twisting, undulating 3.38km International Circuit in complete darkness, with no artificial lighting to guide them.
This unique opportunity allowed drivers to experience the thrill of night racing, typically reserved for professional endurance events.
The circuit’s dramatic layout, overlooking the Irish Sea and Snowdonia, provided a fitting backdrop for the adventure. Clear weather and a bright January moon further enhanced the challenge, creating an unforgettable experience for all involved.
Drivers piloted stock Mazda MX-5s, known for their precise handling and engaging driving dynamics. These cars, provided by Mazda’s UK press and heritage fleets, joined a mix of modified track and race cars on the circuit. Notable among them was a 30th Anniversary Edition MX-5, equipped with Racing Orange paint, RAYS alloy wheels, and Bilstein dampers.
“With its precise handling balance, communicative chassis, and engaging driver feedback, the Mazda MX-5 was the perfect car for this unique Friday night driving experience,” noted Mazda.
James Cameron (no, not the Titanic director), CEO of Mission Motorsport, highlighted the event’s significance: “This first-of-a-kind event offered drivers the rare opportunity to develop their skills in no-light conditions normally reserved for professional endurance racing.”
The event also marked a significant milestone for Trac Mon Circuit, with the signing of the Armed Forces Covenant.
This public pledge reflects their commitment to supporting the UK’s armed forces community. Mazda played a vital role, with the Mazda MX-30 R-EV ‘poppy art car’ assisting circuit marshals in hybrid safety training.
Trac Mon’s long-standing connection with military events includes hosting the annual Race of Remembrance, an endurance race and memorial service held every November. This night-time driving experience further cements the circuit’s reputation as a hub for innovative and meaningful motorsport activities.
