The Coatesville Invitational Vintage Grand Prix brings classic cars in (rapid) motion to the historic downtown of Coatesville, Pennsylvania. Images courtesy Ryan P. McWilliams/Hi-Test Photography.
“Location, location, location,” goes the mantra of real estate. At least a third of that is part of the recipe for success for a car event these days. Another part is action. It’s not enough for the modern car enthusiast to be invited to park in a grassy field or, worse yet, a parking lot, sit in a lawn chair and wait for people to walk by—no matter how nice the selection of vehicles might be.
Coatesville, Pennsylvania, has figured that out and it is revisiting the successful formula of location, action, and selection this September with the second running of its annual Coatesville Invitational Vintage Grand Prix, to be held September 23, 2017 in downtown Coatesville, which surrounds the 18th Century Philadelphia and Lancaster Turnpike, later to become a part of the transcontinental Lincoln Highway, and after 1926, a part of U.S. 30.
To that location comes action in the form of exhibition runs along a race course redolent with the atmosphere of old-time road racing, shades of Alexandria Bay in the ’30s or Watkins Glen in the late ’40s, complete with hay bale chicanes along the route. Turning laps will be the impressive selection of pre-1965 (and, possibly, a select few, extra-special post-’64) race cars and motorcycles. The end result is a treat for the senses of both drivers and spectators.
All vehicles making hot laps must be race prepared and safety inspected. Timing is the responsibility of the individual car owners. For those who cannot meet the qualifications, a new element to this year’s gathering is a “Lunchtime Touring” session during the one-hour lunch break at noon.
Lunchtime Touring will consist of two, 20-minute sessions for 15 cars each, open to all 1900 to 1965 vintage street cars. Motorcycles will not be allowed. These non-timed sessions will be led by a pace car at a “brisk but safe” speed.
The Coatesville Invitational Vintage Grand Prix starts at 8:30 a.m. and ends at 6:00 p.m., spectating is free and open to the public. In addition to the exhibition runs, there will be vendors, food, music and a beer garden. Ample parking is available with a shuttle service offered throughout the day.
Last year’s event had over 60 participants and this year’s Grand Prix is expected to draw upwards of 65. Those interested in participating can apply for consideration through the website at www.coatesvillegrandprix.com. Move quick, though, the entry deadline is August 15!
