Neil and Arlene Calvert's Adventures in Rallying

Neil and Arlene Calvert's Adventures in Rallying

Author: Mark Stone November 13, 2024 Duration: 37:09

In this episode of The Backseat Driver Podcast, I had the privilege of sitting with the esteemed rally driver Neil Calvert and his co-driver and life partner, Arlene Calvert. Neil takes us on a mesmerising journey, recounting his earliest encounters with the rallying bug in 1963. This ultimately led him to become a celebrated figure in historic rally circles, notably behind the wheel of his iconic Mk 1 Lotus Cortina.

Together, Neil and Arlene provide a glimpse into their shared evolution within the sport, from their roots in modern rallying to their seamless transition into the captivating world of historic rallying. They eloquently express the pivotal role of motor clubs in nurturing their careers and fostering a sense of community within the rallying fraternity.

Arlene's unexpected yet triumphant shift from team manager to co-driver beautifully illustrates the couple's unwavering passion and adaptability. We delve into the myriad challenges inherent in rallying, from the adrenaline-fueled unpredictability of night rallies to the gruelling demands of historic rallying, underscoring the paramount importance of meticulous preparation, seamless teamwork, and a profound love for the sport.

Moreover, Neil and Arlene offer poignant reflections on the evolving landscape of rallying, contrasting the spirited camaraderie and fierce competition of bygone eras with today's prevailing trends. They candidly express their preference for more laid-back, socially oriented events, reaffirming their enduring affection for the rally community and the sport that binds them together.

___

https://pod.link/1656058575

Visit our sponsors

GAZ Shocks 116 Trophy

Hodder Tyres

Tarox Brakes

SAS Autos

Listen Now

Mentioned in this episode:

Tarox Brakes

Sponsored by TAROX Brakes Engineered in Italy. Tested on track. Trusted on the street. TAROX performance brake kits deliver progressive feel, zero fade, and serious stopping power — all with show-stopping looks. 🔧 tarox.co.uk – Precision Braking Since 1976.


There's a particular kind of conversation that happens when the engine is off and the real talk begins. Backseat Driver captures that feeling, hosted by Mark Stone from his home in England's north-west. Mark's own journey from competitive driving in the eighties to decades of motoring journalism and television gives him a unique vantage point. He's not just a reporter; he's lived the life, and that genuine enthusiasm for anything with an engine comes through in every discussion. This podcast is built around Mark's conversations with the prominent figures who shape the automotive world, from legendary engineers and designers to champion racers and behind-the-scenes innovators. You'll hear stories that rarely make it into magazine articles, personal reflections on iconic cars, and unfiltered opinions on where the industry is headed. It's for anyone who finds the culture of motoring as compelling as the machinery itself. Tune in for a deep, relaxed dive into the passion that drives us all, hosted by someone who has truly been there and done it.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Backseat Driver
Podcast Episodes
Ian Harwood Pt.1 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 38:56
In this episode of Backseat Driver, I sit down with Ian Harwood, a rallying legend who brings decades of thrilling experiences. From passing his driving test to conquering local rallies and tackling international events…
Retromobile 2025 Special - Part 2 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 38:39
In Part Two of the Retromobile 2025 special on Backseat Driver with me Mark Stone, take you further into this iconic automotive event, bringing you interviews with some of the most fascinating figures in the classic and…
Retromobile 2025 Special - Part 1 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 38:16
In the first part of this special episode of Backseat Driver, I, Mark Stone, am joined by co-host Marie Catherine Ligny as we bring you exclusive coverage from Retromobile 2025, one of the most prestigious automotive gat…
Bridge House Tea Rooms with Jon Wright [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 37:52
In this episode of Backseat Driver, I sit down with John Wright at the delightful Bridge House Farm Tea Rooms, an unlikely yet thriving hub for motoring enthusiasts. John shares how he turned this charming location into…
Skipton Car Show 2023 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 34:50
In this episode of Backseat Driver, we go back to 2023 and celebrate the exciting return of the Skipton Car Show, led by Mark Dale. The event invites an impressive array of vehicles, from classic and vintage cars to crea…
A Celebration of Jowett Cars and Racing Triumphs with Chris Spencer [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 39:06
In this episode of Backseat Driver, I sit down with Chris Spencer at the Bradford Industrial Museum for an engaging conversation about the legacy of Jowett cars. Our chat begins with memories of our previous meeting at L…
Motorsport Memories with Paul Hargreaves Pt. 2 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 37:50
It's me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of Backseat Driver, I had the pleasure of speaking with Paul Hargreaves, a distinguished figure in motorsport media.Paul's journey began with a passion for driving tractors in his…
From Tractors to Trackside with Paul Hargreaves Pt. 1 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 38:31
In this episode of Backseat Driver, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Paul Hargreaves, whose life journey has been deeply intertwined with motorsport—not as a driver or team member, but from behind the camera lens.…
Jackie Ickx: The Paris-Dakar and Beyond with John Saltinstall [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 33:49
In this episode of Backseat Driver, I welcome back John Saltinstall, the brilliant author of the definitive Niki Lauda biography and Jackie Ickx's authorised competition history. Together, we dive into Jackie Ickx's extr…
Motorsports History with John Saltinstall - Pt. 1 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 34:33
In this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I sit down with John Saltinstall, the acclaimed author renowned for his biographies of racing legends. From his transition out of the finance world to crafting compelling s…