Beech Underwriting Agencies chief executive and managing director Geoff Stilwell (pictured) has won two awards at the Grand National Roadster Show, thanks to his purpose-built land speed racer 7707.

The owner/driver noted: “It has been a tough couple of years for land speed racing. We were only able to attend one event last year at El Mirage where we successfully made licensing passes.

“It was therefore great fun to get the car out and be a part of the Mick’s Paint display at this year’s Grand National Roadster Show held in Pomona, California. Showing is not like racing – the winner is subjective. Nevertheless, we managed to get first place in the unlimited class and received the award for outstanding engineering.”

“The latter accolade,” said the insurance boss, “is a huge testament to the crew at Mick’s who built and maintain the car including engine builder John Beck, Donny Cummins, Steve Davies, Mickey Larson, Pauly Rivera, Robin ‘Silky’ Silk, Tony Thacker, and team leader Mick Jenkins.”

Stilwell’s land speed racer is based on a highly modified 1927 Ford Roadster. It features a 496 ci Brad Anderson-based engine and currently holds the A/Blown Fuel Rear-engine Modified Roadster record at 258.569 mph.

Meanwhile, the CEO added: “Our current plans are to attend the May 14-15 event at El Mirage in preparation for the August 6-12 Bonneville Speed Week.”