The record now held by Idris Elba can be attempted by anyone else who races on UK sand. The event was staged for TV, but was held under the governance of the UK Timing Association (UKTA) who have run events at Pendine for the last two years and run record events on airfields. The UKTA Production Car class record is the one which Idris now holds, set on May 3rd 2015.
Robin is correct that the MSA fastest non wheeldriven record speed in the UK is Colin Fallows at 301.76 mph on tarmac (the outright UK record). Primetime (Colin's race business) chose not to use this beach and whilst others with jet and rocket have used the sands they did not set records. Yes, here in the UK we record speeds of jets/rockets separately from wheeldriven cars.
As to being unimpressed with the speed from a "200 mph car" on sand. Idris found out, as all who go to Pendine can experience, that there is a loss of performance on the wet and 'soft' surface. His speeds were the average for the mile distance and the record speed of 180.361 mph is the average of two runs in opposite directions so cancelling out any wind speed. His best run was run 3 west to east run at a speed of 182.713mph.
The car was straight from the factory and appeared pristine on the morning of both days of filming.
Anything I have not answered plese post a reply or for abuse send me a pm. I have a multilayer fire suit just in case.
Just in case you are wondering .............. I am a Co-director of the UK Timing Association.
