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The Summer is underway and I cannot wait for motor races, road rallies, bike shows, yacht shows and of course the sunshine.

This week is a short one I hope you like it.

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Praga Bohema

As a car fan it is aways nice to see the latest Porsche, Aston or Ferrari but there is only so many cars the big supercar brands can launch in a year. This means that some weeks nothing of note is launched and it is up to me to discover something interesting for this number one slot on the newsletter.

If you are into cars, this car is nothing new, I am sure it has been on your radar for a few months, but let us dig in.

The Praga Bohema 2023 is a hypercar in a league of its own. Flaunting a potent 700bhp engine in an ultra-lightweight sub-1,000kg frame, it promises to challenge the status quo of the hypercar world. Built by Czech company Praga, with a 115-year heritage once covering cars, trains, buses, planes, and more, the Bohema takes the track-focused hypercar narrative a step further.

Under its hood roars a 3.8-litre twin-turbocharged V6 engine, developed for the GT-R by Nissan and GT-R specialist Litchfield. This groundbreaking collaboration, marking the first time Nissan has given another manufacturer access to this engine, is just the start. Though the Bohema still awaits its full 700bhp capacity, the prototype’s 550bhp output already delivers an impressive performance.

It’s a head-turner, from the unique pop-up scissor doors to the beautifully designed steering wheel, yet it isn't all show. With adjustable Öhlins suspension and comfortable ride quality, it stands ready for both the track and the road. The Praga Bohema 2023 is not just a hypercar—it's an experience, a testament to Praga's rich legacy and a beacon of its ambitious future.

The Rabbit Hole

Sirena Yachts 50m

Sirena Yachts, the Turkish shipyard, introduced a fresh concept in superyacht design at the 2022 Monaco Yacht Show – an exclusive patio area to the bow of the boat for owners. Crafted in collaboration with Luca Vallebona and Van Oossanen Naval Architects, the 35m, 42m, and 50m models have been conceived with a focus on optimizing onboard space, while creating unique and private experiences for owners and guests.

The centerpiece of these innovations is the owner's patio, a private oasis tucked into the hull on the main deck, particularly on the 42m and 50m models. This open-air space, akin to a ‘garden room', marries luxury with privacy, a sanctuary hidden within the grandeur of the superyacht.

The patio is bathed in natural light streaming in from above and through mullion-less windows set into a stark white hull. On the larger models, this exclusive retreat includes a personal Jacuzzi and steps leading to a lounge area on the main deck.

Sirena's design philosophy merges traditional Latin architectural concepts with modern luxury, creating less formal, more social spaces to appeal to a younger demographic. This concept, offering a private, nature-infused space at sea, stands as a testament to this innovative approach and a unique feature in the world of superyacht design.

The larger yachts also featuring a massive fold out beach-house and swim platform. Perfect for weeks in the Mediterranean.

The Rabbit Hole

The Macallan

Experience the exceptional world of whisky at The Macallan Distillery, nestled within the picturesque Speyside region of Scotland. This unique destination, steeped in tradition and enhanced by modern innovation, offers you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of unparalleled single malts.

The Distillery, a marvel of architectural innovation by the acclaimed Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners, is the heart of The Macallan Estate. Just a stone's throw from its predecessor, it complements the historical charm of our Spiritual Home, Easter Elchies House.

Not just a whisky distillery, The Macallan is a testament to sustainable development, earning the Green Tourism Gold accreditation. Every decision made reflects a commitment to leaving a better world for future generations. The design of the distillery embodies this ethos, minimizing environmental impact while retaining the beauty and functionality of the space.

Your visit to The Macallan Distillery Experience won't just be a tour, but a journey into a realm where tradition, innovation, and sustainability coalesce to create world-renowned single malts. Located in Easter Elchies, Craigellachie, AB38 9RX, Scotland, it's a must-visit destination for whisky enthusiasts and eco-conscious tourists alike. Discover the beauty, craftsmanship, and sustainable vision that makes The Macallan stand out.

The Rabbit Hole

Aston Bulldog

Keep an eye out for the 200MPH top speed test of this lovingly restored Aston Martin Bulldog.

As you might have gathered, I rather like Aston Martin, the frequency of which they grace the pages probably makes that obvious. The love affair started with a character called Bond and it was not the Aston Martin you are thinking. My favourite Bond car at the time of my youth was not the DB5 but the 1980s V8 Vantage, driven by Timothy Dalton, which is not a reflection on the actual movies of that era.

However, the most iconic Aston Martin as a young lad in the early 80s was the Bulldog, not because I ever saw one, but because of the card game Top Trumps. The Bulldog was alleged to do 200MPH, this was in an age well before the 959 and F40.

The Bulldog was a 600BHP late 70s supercar with twin turbos. The car resembled something a bit like a merger of a Lamborghini Countach, a DMC DeLorean and a Lotus Esprit.

This week sees an attempt to put the restored Bulldog to the test and see if, with her wedged-shaped aero, she can in fact hit that 200MPH target at an airfield in Scotland

The Rabbit Hole

Gumball 3000 - Edinburgh to Porto Montenegro

This weekend sees the start of the 24th Gumball 3000 Road Rally. Where next week’s Connoisseur will be a special edition episode of the newsletter as I will be at the start in Edinburgh.

Formula One

Espania

A week after Monaco we head to Barcelona Spain, and the Circuit de Catalunya, which is actually 30 minute drive away from Barcelona (not on race days). The weekend promised to be exciting with a few teams missing the opportunity to set up in free practice due to rain.

This led to a Saturday qualifying that could bring a very interesting race. You can see the final qualifying positions here, but at the end of Q3 I have to say I was a happy chap as McLaren was almost on the front row, with Lando Norris ending up in 3rd which was a massive improvement for McLaren. Mercedes also appeared to have made progress in Q1 and Q2 Lewis Hamilton seemed very fast, but on the final run of Q3 he missed out. But the most exciting thing for the Spanish crowd was a Carlos Sainz in second place behind Verstappen.

A very mixed-up grid was tantalising for the race.

Except Verstappen ran off into the distance and did not seem in any danger of being troubled by anyone. Sadly also Norris tapped Hamilton’s rear in the second corner and had to go in for a nose change with meant he was virtually last by lap 2 and barely improved at all.

In the end, Verstappen led an uneventful Grand Prix, Mercedes however managed to get both cars on the podium with Hamilton 2nd and Russel 3rd. I imagine the Mercedes team are rather happy about their recent upgrade program and the fact that James Allison is back.

Next Race - Canada - 16th Jun - 18th Jun

16th Jun Practice 1 - 18:00 18:30 (UK Time)

16th Jun Practice 2 - 21:45 22:00 (UK Time)

17th Jun Practice 3 - 17:15 17:30 (UK Time)

17th Jun Qualifying - 20:00 21:00 (UK Time)

18th Jun Grand Prix - 17:30 19:00 (UK Time)

Other News, Links and Stuff

Worth a watch.

Whats-The-Fuss

Other dates for your diary:

Gumball3000 - 10 – 17 June

Atlantic Road Trip - 30 June– 09 July

Silverstone Grand Prix - 7– 9 July 

Goodwood Festival of Speed - 13 – 16 July

Goodwood Revival - 8 –10 Sept

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