Audi Driver International

Autometrix Publications

My association with Autometrix Publications goes back to 2000, when I became a columnist for Audi Driver magazine. A short time later, I was added to the roster of columnists on its sister publication Volkswagen Driver. Both of these enthusiast magazines served a dedicated fan base in the UK and elsewhere until, sadly, the relentless onslaught of digital media caught up with the print business model in 2019 and Autometrix folded (literally and financially).

As well as publishing the monthly issues of the magazines themselves, Autometrix also ran two extremely popular annual events – GTI International and Audi Driver International. The latter was held at Castle Combe race track in Wiltshire. As well as static displays, vendor stalls, a concours and show ‘n’ shine, participants were also able to take their own private cars for a whiz around the track or enjoy a few hot laps in specialist cars brought to the event by race teams and Audi UK. After a day at the track, the event was rounded off in the evening by the Audi Driver Annual Awards dinner attended by fans, clubs, dealerships and independent suppliers. The award winners in each category were determined by reader votes.

In 2012, I was surprised and delighted to receive the Audi Driver Personality of the Year award. In later years, I was invited by Autometrix to provide paddock commentary at Castle Combe during the day and then compere the awards dinner in the evening.