About Team Spider Pig

When classic Mini enthusiasts and friends Robert Bateman (left) approached Mark Smith (right) to see if he was interested in being the navigator in an historic rally car, Mark agreed only if it was in a classic Mini and we pick a silly name.  Robert suggested “Team Spider Pig”, and it stuck.

So, we are Team Spider Pig, rallying a 1967 Morris Mini Minor called Felicity, having previously competed in another Austin Rover Mini called Harriet.  Yes, all our cars are named.

Robert Bateman

Robert is the team principal, and driver.  An ex-Policeman, injured in the line of duty, has rallied for many years, in Subarus and Skodas before teaming up with Mark in Robert’s classic Mini.

Mark Smith

Mark is a software designer and has his own business.  He previously flew helicopters as a private pilot, so with excellent navigational skills, became the navigator of the team.

Felicity

Felicity is a 1967 Morris Mini Minor 850cc owned by Robert and prepared to rally standards.  It started as a basket case that needed a full restoration, and over £20k later, we have a very competitive car.

Harriet

Our previous car was called Harriet, a 1987 Mini Mayfair 998cc.

Our Car Transporter

We sometimes take our rally car to events further afield on the back of our car transporter trailer.  If you have ever sat in a classic rally Mini with a straight cut gearbox and no sound deadening for any length of time, you will appreciate why we have the trailer.  It is loud.  It also allows us to reposition our rally car for essential maintenance work.