THE OWL / THE MAGAZINE OF HUGHES HALL constituted board of directors took over this role, acting on the advice of the new Rules Committee, which ensured any changes had been carefully considered for their broader implications. I think it is fair to say that this system has stood the test of time, and some eight years later works very effectively, but it may beg the question what is the role of the Council today? According to our memorandum and articles, the role of the Council is defined as‘ an advisory body, to develop strategic thinking and provide a conduit of information from the full spectrum of UK motorsport, giving advice and guidance to the board in relation to key issues’. The initial chair of this newly formed body was Tom Purves, who many of you will know as a highly respected leader in the automotive industry, his career culminating as the chair of Rolls- Royce, as well as the chair of the Royal
Automobile Club. On Tom’ s retirement he passed the baton to Christopher Tate who has ensured that the debates at the Council are rich and varied.
To illustrate this, in our April Council meeting we covered a wide array of subjects including a fascinating insight into the work being done by guest speaker Justina Williams, whose company EXCELR8, is one of the leading teams in British motorsport. It has now scored more than 50 championship titles since its formation, including winning the British Touring Car Championship Drivers’ Championship in 2022 and then again in 2025, and it also lifted the Manufacturers’ / Constructors’ crown. As a team, EXCELR8 prides itself on being one of the most inclusive race teams in UK motorsport. Several female members of staff now hold key positions within the EXCELR8
Revolution Magazine
EXCELR8 Team owner Justina Williams has teams running in BTCC, MINI CHALLENGE and the MINI
CHALLENGE Trophy
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