all-vintage-races-should-kick-off-with-a-drive-through-town

The race car parade from Road America’s Gate 5 to Lake Street in Elkhart Lake remains an extraordinary part of this weekend’s WeatherTech Invitational Challenge with Brian Redman. It seems, not only racers, but half of Sheboygan County shows up. (In that respect, it’s a great PR plus for motorsports, as well as a great evening out for local families.)

Thanks to village and race track officials, it all flows smoothly. Be forewarned, however, by 3 p.m., three hours before the parade, a parking spot within reasonable walking distance of the parade route is impossible to find. Bring your walking shoes.

Once you arrive, respect the lawn chairs. They’re everywhere along the parade route. Locals use them to stake out their claims and the parameters of their parties. If you’re friendly and respectful, you might be invited to join the party.

More like this

Comments

duke906 New Reader
7/17/23 12:06 a.m.

Just came back from Road America, the race cars driving from the track to downtown Elkhart Lake on Friday evenings is heaven!! The drivers and crew are willing to answer questions and put little kids in the cars to dream.

Getting the race cars closer to the fans is key to preserving them for the future. My friends and I go every year. This year was great because of the Kastner Cup and many of the Minnesota Triumph Club were there with their cars AND a member raced!!! Great weekend.

Thanks for the article!

Kevin Riba

74 Triumph TR6/ 86 BMW 325es

PopeyeBoston New Reader
7/17/23 12:31 p.m.

Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix has an "Avenue of Speed" Friday night before the races. Cars are parked for the fans to get up close to, kids are often invited to sit in the cars, and at the end of the evening all the cars roar off in a parade. Fun.

J.A. Ackley Senior Editor
7/17/23 2:20 p.m.

If it wasn't for a racing fair, I may have never gotten involved in motorsports. A downtown "car show" or parade does wonders to create new fans and participants of motorsport.

David S. Wallens Editorial Director
7/24/23 9:53 a.m.

duke906 said:
Hi

Just came back from Road America, the race cars driving from the track to downtown Elkhart Lake on Friday evenings is heaven!! The drivers and crew are willing to answer questions and put little kids in the cars to dream.

Getting the race cars closer to the fans is key to preserving them for the future. My friends and I go every year. This year was great because of the Kastner Cup and many of the Minnesota Triumph Club were there with their cars AND a member raced!!! Great weekend.

Thanks for the article!

Kevin Riba

74 Triumph TR6/ 86 BMW 325es

Very cool and glad that you got to take it in.