Former World Champion and Olympic silver medallist, Roger Black joined current sprinters Harry Aikines-Aryeetey and Tyrone Edgar and high jumper Martyn Bernard plus 4x400m World silver medallist Conrad Williams, to celebrate Alfa’s 100-year anniversary at the world famous motorsport and automotive event, which is taking place from 2-4 July on the Goodwood Estate, in West Sussex.

Before visiting the Festival of Speed, the athletes spent the morning at the Goodwood Motorsport circuit, where there was no shortage of speed as the group posted laps at the wheel of the brand new Alfa Giulietta. The stylish 5-door hatchback was officially launched in the UK last week and carries Alfa’s trademarks of sporting performance, design confidence and revolutionary technology.

The Festival of Speed brings together some of the finest displays of high performance cars and bikes, the biggest names in motorsport and multiple attractions, including the event’s famous ‘hill climb’ race. Alfa Romeo is the featured marque at this year’s event, which carries the theme, ‘Viva Veloce!’ (Passion for Speed), and aims to celebrate Italy’s influence on motor sport.

One of the major highlights for the featured marque is the ownership and creation of the central feature at the front of Goodwood House. Alfa’s creation is inspired by its Cloverleaf badge which has become a symbol of sporting success, having first appeared on Alfa race cars in the 1920s and on every racing Alfa ever since. The stylish red structure includes two of Alfa’s most prestigious cars - the 1925 World Championship winning Alfa P2 Grand Prix race car and the stunning 8C Competizione supercar.

Alfa ambassador and 100m sprinter Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, who was named BBC Young Sports Personality of the Year aged just 17, commented ‘My whole life revolves around going as fast as possible, so to be given the chance to test drive the new Alfa Giulietta around the track this morning, was a real adrenaline rush. Some of the cars are incredible – it’s been an amazing day.’

Former World Champion and Olympic silver medallist, Roger Black said, “Alfa Romeo is an iconic brand and a key partner to UKA, supporting athletes, staff and coaches across many levels of the sport.  Its sporty and stylish image is a great fit with athletics. We’ve had a fantastic day and it‘s been great to be part of Alfa’s centenary celebrations.”

Brand Communications Manager at Alfa Romeo UK, Damien Dally added, “Performance, passion and pride are at the sporting heart of the Alfa Romeo brand and are mirrored by athletes striving to achieve their goals. We’re delighted the athletes have been able to take time out of their gruelling training schedules, to join us for part of this very special weekend at the Festival of Speed.”