Torbay Motor Club held speed hillclimbs at Oddicombe, Torquay from 1961 to 2003 (March). The events were held twice a year in March and October. A challenging hill, steep, narrow and with sharp hairpin bends ascending from Oddicombe beach up the wooded cliff to Babbacombe Downs. Originally 650 yds (594m), it was later increased to 849 yds (777m). Adding to the challenge was the undulating nature of the tarmac caused by the tree roots. It was a drivers favourite and the event was included in the Association of South Western Motor Clubs Championship.
The honour of the first FTD went to John Grafton with a 37.55s run in his Ford-powered Lotus Seven. The outright hill record was claimed by rapid Cornish driver Kevitt Payne in his Ensign LNF3 single seater - a 36.10s - in March 1987.
Fondly remembered and much missed by both competitors and spectators alike. I took a walk down memory lane (or memory hill) recently and here is a video of my (very sedate) run up the hill. I could almost hear the voice of the regular commentator, Pat Jennings!
I also include the descent back down to Oddicombe Beach which perhaps gives a better idea of how steep the hill is and how sharp the hairpins are.
I hope that you enjoy the video - I certainly enjoyed taking to the hill and reviving all those memories. There are also some photo’s available in this FB album media/set/?vanity=RivieraGuy&set=a.1096516662484754