Another day…another great experience! Today saw a lot of driving and two excellent stops! Following an early start in Valley Forge, PA the Great Race made its way south. Our stop at noon was in Millsboro, Delaware, a delightful small town which proudly hosts another vintage car rally each autumn called, The Pumpkin Run. The Mayor of Millsboro not only hosts that event, he is also a regular competitor in Great Race. His town was on full display today and what marvellous hosts they were, from pre-arrival organization, through a hosted luncheon to a fond farewell. Mayor Bob can stand proud of his entire community! Well done!

From there, we made our way from Delaware into Virginia, finishing another tiring drive to Norfolk, Virginia, the last number of miles driving the Chesapeake Bridge/Tunnel, a 17 mile drive across and under Chesapeake Bay to Norfolk. Once the car was parked in Norfolk we ferried across to Portsmouth, VA passed the ship-building yards to Portsmouth to welcome the competitors. It proved to be yet another challenging day for all teams involved. The Ecklers Aces have been very difficult to win! A very special moment for MotorMouth was when former Great Racer, Jason Fisher, grandson of Dick Howe stepped forward to say, “Hello”. Now a member of the United States Navy, stationed in Norfolk, Jason and his grandfather campaigned for several years with us. I realized after he departed that I have been blessed to know so many wonderful Great Race families!
After a pleasant ferry crossing back to Norfolk, I was invited to join yet another Great Race family for dinner, the Stahl family. What a wonderful experience! Beyond the fellowship and the meal, it was so refreshing to meet and talk with folks away from the competition. I am in awe of the commitment families make to this event, not only in terms of time but in energy and enthusiasm… to gain insights into their thoughts about the event and their regard for others who are likewise in their commitment. Clearly, the Stahl Group is an asset going forward.

Following a long day today, we get a bit of a break tomorrow, with a slightly later start. The question is, can MotorMouth unwind enough to have a great sleep?