Going on a solo trip to see some cars...

For the first time, I decided to go solo to a motor event. Despite how terrified i was, I enjoyed every minute of it.

If there is an event taking place that I really want to go to, I usually try and get a friend or family to go along with me. This will be whether it's a music, motoring event etc. However, I really wanted to go to the Autosport International Show as I haven't been to anything car related in a while. I wanted to take a leap make a journey by myself and see what I can achieve.

GT40 - it's equally as hard to get in these as it is to get out if you're over six foot. I'd still own one

GT40 - it's equally as hard to get in these as it is to get out if you're over six foot. I'd still own one

I woke up at 6.30am on a Sunday. That was the first challenge. However, I soldiered on and made the effort to drive from London to Birmingham in some of the worst conditions I have ever driven in. On three different occasions I saw cars spun off on the side of the motorway. This amped the fear factor to 11. Despite the horrible weather, I managed to arrive at the NEC. I got my camera gear ready and off I went on my adventure.

Ferrari Dino 246 GT - simply astonishing

Ferrari Dino 246 GT - simply astonishing

My immediate reaction was to smile uncontrollably with the kind of culture present. I prepped my camera and just went picture crazy. But, I found it was equally as important to take a moment to admire what you see and capture it appropriately. Whether it is a one of a kind tuned Bugatti Veyron to a classic Mini Cooper Rally, you appreciate the value presented by these magnificent examples of engineering.

Liberty Walk 458 - Words cannot describe how well this tuning kit suits the car

Liberty Walk 458 - Words cannot describe how well this tuning kit suits the car

An abundance of cars was complimented with a selection of tuning companies showcasing their products. From ECU kits, to full blown conversion models. One very rare sight was the infamous Liberty Walk. Originating in Japan, it is very rare to see cars of such calibre in the UK scene. To be able to see not one, not two, but THREE different models at the show was incredible. From a Mini Cooper S to the 458 and Aventador (pictured above), it was a sight to behold. This was the one stand I kept revisiting to make sure I had every possible angle I could get.

Ford GT '17 - Let's hope the fuel efficiency is a lot better on this one!

Ford GT '17 - Let's hope the fuel efficiency is a lot better on this one!

With every car show, there is bound to be some form of simulator racing time trial taking part. In fact, there were several scattered around the venue. I haven't taken part in a time trial for a couple years due to time (funnily enough), lack of money to go to an event and university. When I got the chance to see what I could still pull off, I was impressed given the lack of practice. I didn't win anything while I was there but, it's ok. In fact, it has encouraged me to spend more time where possible practicing and falling back in love with doing what I am good at.

In Project CARS, this is one of the more fun cars to drive. Raw power but still manageable and very drivable

In Project CARS, this is one of the more fun cars to drive. Raw power but still manageable and very drivable

However, the biggest achievement at the end of the day was the fact that I thoroughly enjoyed myself at the show. I was in charge of my own day, decided where I wanted to go without having to think about anyone else and waiting around for people. Despite not speaking to as many people as I would have like, that is a development point for me; be more confident. But first and foremost, enjoy yourself.

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