The 81st Members Meeting at Goodwood was a tribute to the original era of the Canadian-American Challenge Cup, known as Can-Am. A total of 24 Group 7 sports cars were on display at the Goodwood Circuit, including seven Shadows managed by Era Motorsport. The Can-Am was a series that ran from 1966 to 1974 and featured incredibly powerful machines with over 1000 horsepower, weighing just 800 kg and generating significant downforce. Despite its premature cancellation, the Can-Am remains an important and memorable chapter in motorsport history, which was celebrated at Goodwood.
Jim Bartell, owner of six Shadows, shared his personal connection to the Can-Am. He grew up near Road America in Wisconsin, where Can-Am dominated, and always admired the Shadows. Bartell described the thrill of watching the cars race and the impact they had on him. He eventually acquired a Shadow and has since collected several others, all in need of restoration. His dedication to preserving the history and legacy of the Shadows led him to gather them for display.
The Can-Am demonstration at Goodwood would not have been possible without the commitment of Jackie Oliver, who played a crucial role in making it happen. Oliver, who dominated the 1974 championship, was thrilled to be reunited with his title-winning machine after 50 years. He reflected on the unique nature of the Can-Am era, where innovation was unlimited, resulting in huge engines, large wings, and high power. Oliver explained the challenges of driving these powerful cars, especially in low-speed corners.
The Can-Am series faced financial difficulties during the oil crisis and a recession in North America, leading to a decline in interest and ultimately the premature end of the 1974 season. However, the presence of Shadow Can-Am cars at Goodwood was a testament to their importance and impact. One of the notable cars on display was the 1969 Mark 1 prototype, featuring early active aerodynamics with operable aerodynamic brakes for improved braking performance.
For Bartell and Era Motorsport, their next major appearance will be at the Festival of Speed in July, where they will showcase the 1976 DN6 Dodge F5000. The Goodwood Members’ Meeting provided spectators with a close experience of Can-Am, allowing them to appreciate the powerful engines and witness the legacy of this iconic era. Bartell sees himself as a temporary caretaker of these cars and hopes to find someone who will continue to preserve and appreciate them in the years to come.
