Meet the Instructor - Jamie Gerathy

17th June 2025

Introduce yourself with your name, job, and connection to Goodwood.

My name is Jamie Gerathy. I’ve been an Approved Driving Instructor / Coach (ADI) since 2008, working in Portsmouth and the surrounding areas.

I started at Goodwood as an Off-Road Instructor in 2014 for corporate and retail clientele. We used BMW X5s initially. Goodwood then moved on to the vehicles that are still used today, which tie in with the history and period of the Motor Circuit: the incredible Series II and Series IIA Land Rovers. These vehicles are incredibly capable and so much fun to drive.

I was very fortunate in 2021 to be asked to be Chief Instructor for the 4x4 Off-Road Corporate and Retail Experiences.

I also instruct at the Goodwood Junior Driving Program for children under 17 years of age. Introducing and helping our drivers of the future and getting them into the driver’s seat early in a safe environment is so rewarding. Seeing the parents’ faces when they realise it’s their child doing gear changes, steering, and negotiating crossroads and roundabouts - and not the instructors - is brilliant.

Do you have a career highlight or goal for the future?

Being Chief Instructor for the Goodwood Off-Road Experience is definitely up there in career highlights so far. Working with high-end clientele and being the face representing Goodwood, at times being their first interaction during their visit to the estate. Welcoming them to Goodwood, introducing the guests to the rest of the great Off-Road Instructors, and helping them relax and enjoy everything about Goodwood.

Another career highlight was back home in Australia, where I gained my Truck/Bus and Public Passenger Vehicle licence at the age of 18, and my boat licence at 14. The law has since changed to 21 for buses and trucks. To be 18 years of age and driving international backpackers around tourist areas of Australia over 26 days, passing on the history of the towns and sites, leading guided bushwalks, and organising all the catering and accommodation - it was full on at times, but a very rewarding job as you were creating lifetime memories for the passengers. The vehicles I drove ranged from 53-seater coaches, 21-seater coasters, Land Cruiser Troopies, and other 4x4s. Oh, and I was also a Malibu speedboat driver and water-skiing instructor.

 

What is your first memory of Goodwood?

Realising how much space, land, and how many trees surround the estate. Coming from Australia, where my parents had a bit of land, it was the first time since 2005 when I moved to England that I felt I had a place I could visit and relax and not feel boxed in. A great memory - and I often come in early on days that I’m working to go for a walk through the woodlands.

 

Who inspired you?

My mum and dad, with their work ethic and love for us kids.

My martial arts instructor, Sensei Peter ‘Froggy’ Morton, Black Belt 10th Dan. For 10 years I studied the art of Jiu-jitsu under the watchful eye of Sensei Morton from 8 to 18 years old. He taught me grit, determination, the never give up attitude, good manners, and to always show respect.

 

What is your Motor Circuit Café order?

Bacon and egg on a white baguette if it’s breakfast.

The pizzas are delicious if it’s lunchtime.

 

What is your favourite Goodwood event?

Goodwood Revival. Being a spectator, you are part of the event. There is so much to see and do. When the racing finishes, the night continues with great music and atmosphere.

 

What is your dream car to drive or race?

 The Cobra

 

What is one piece of advice you would give to anyone looking for a career similar to yours?

Knowledge is key!

Knowledge of your vehicle, knowledge of the area you work in, and knowledge about your customer’s journey, needs, and wishes. Have that information and you can exceed your client’s expectations.

Second piece, just as important - give exceptional customer service and care. All day, every day.

 

You can find Jamie instructing on both Off-Road Experience  and the Junior Driving Experience, both running this month. 

  • Motor Circuit

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  • Motor Circuit