Meet the Instructor - Graham Johnson

05th December 2024

Graham began his career in motoring journalism in 1994, quickly rising as a prominent industry figure. As editor of several specialist automotive magazines and a regular motoring correspondent for Capital Radio’s Weekend Breakfast Show, he played a pivotal role in launching esteemed accolades like the International Engine of the Year Awards and the World Car of the Year Awards.

Despite starting karting relatively late at 28, Graham rapidly ascended in motorsport. By 2006, he was competing in Caterhams, achieving eight race wins, 20 podium finishes, and two third-place Championship titles. Over the next four years, he expanded his racing portfolio, competing in series such as the Ginetta G40 Challenge and Britcar, where he earned four additional wins and numerous podiums.

In 2015, Graham entered British GT with Optimum Motorsport, driving a Ginetta G55. His debut season was a triumph, with a race win, three podiums, and a Vice Champion title. The following year, he claimed the British GT4 Championship with three victories, two pole positions, and three more podiums. Transitioning to a McLaren 570S in 2017, Graham achieved further success, including the Pro-Am Championship and Vice Champion titles in subsequent years.

When Graham retired from competitive racing in 2020, he redirected his energy into mentoring aspiring drivers as an instructor at Goodwood. A testament to his career, he remains the most successful driver in British GT4 history.

We caught up with Graham to ask him a few questions:

 

1. What do you currently do at Goodwood?

I instruct on both the Spin and Slide Experience and the Race Simulator Experience at the Circuit. On the racing simulators, I provide one-on-one tuition to current and aspiring drivers, helping them sharpen their skills.

 

2. Do you have a career highlight or goal for the future?

Winning the British GT Championship and becoming a McLaren-supported driver are definite highlights of my career. Looking ahead, my goal is to help others reach their full potential and achieve their own motorsport dreams.

 

3. What is your first memory of Goodwood?

Enjoying the luxury and thrill of flying into the Goodwood Festival of Speed in a helicopter during my time as a motoring journalist.

 

4. What inspires you?

The fear of failure inspires me. It makes me try harder!

 

5. What’s your go-to order at the Motor Circuit Café?

A tuna mayo sandwich with a Diet Coke. Always a Diet Coke. It’s my one weakness (or so I claim!).

 

6. What is your favourite Goodwood event?

The Members’ Meeting. It’s a razor-sharp, race-focused event that I always look forward to.

 

7. What’s your dream car to drive or race?

I have a soft spot for JDM hot hatchbacks and coupes from the 1990s onwards. I love their technology as well as the influence Japanese culture has on their design and engineering.

 

8. What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone pursuing a career like yours?

When you think you’ve done enough, remind yourself that there’s always more to achieve.

You can find Graham instructing on both Spin & Slide and the Goodwood Race Simulator Experience,  both running this month. 

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  • Motor Circuit