We’ve been waiting for this day for the past year, and it’s finally upon us! It’s officially time for the 2012 Hemmings Motor News Great Race presented by Hagerty! Thursday, we spent the day registering vehicles for the race, and getting them inspected for safety and scoring. Each car got a thorough inspection by Dave McAlliste, then went through the line to be outfitted with all of the sponsor decals. It was a long day of work for everyone involved, but we made it through most of the cars on day one. Friday will see a few late arrivals for registration and inspection, but we’ll also be having the Hagerty Trophy Run, which is essentially a warm up rally for the Great Race participants. That’s all for now, but keep an eye on the Great Race Facebook Page for up-to-the-minute updates!
McKeel Hagerty’s awesome Bocar, which will be participating in the Great Race. This road racing machine is powered by a high winding small block Chevy!
Our setup crews blasted up the highway and entered Traverse City on Wednesday, and they were at the Holiday Inn bright and early for inspection.
Here’s the biggest news of the 2012 Great Race–Sister McRae is HERE! She is Tom McRae’s sister and handled many aspects of the Great Race operations in the ’80s and ’90s. We’re so glad to have her on board for this year’s event!
Dave McAllister inspected each and every vehicle that passed through registration, and noted any modifications that may affect its scoring. For instance a ’32 Ford with a ’53 Flathead will be scored as a 1953 car.
After inspection, each vehicle went through the sticker tent to get its race decal as well as sponsor decals. This is the only Corvette in competition!
The BIRD! Who’s going to take it home when we get to Dearborn?
After a long day of tech inspection and setup, we made a short drive to the Hagerty Garage for a great dinner party! Live music was only one of the perks, as Hagerty’s place had great food, and lots of cool stuff to see!
The place was packed! We enjoyed food and drinks to wind down from the day’s action. We’re one day closer to getting this show on the road!
McKeel Hagerty welcomed us to the very nicely-equipped garage, and offered thanks to his parents for founding the business, as well as John Hollansworth for encouraging them to enter the collector car market.
Corky’s job is never over! Here he is, inspecting a vintage tire at the Hagerty Garage.
As the sun sets on Thursday in Traverse City, we’re excited about Friday’s Trophy Run as well as an amazing Opening Ceremony for the racers! Check back here for daily updates, or you can check out our Facebook page for up-to-the-minute updates!
It is so good to see Sister McRae there. Would you please tell her that Chad Nelson’s mom, Ann, says hello and I wish I were there too!! Go #30, Chad and Brandon driving 1930 Ford Model A Speedster! God speed to all.