All of the hype leading up to the start of the Hemmings Motor News Great Race 2012 presented by Hagerty proved to be everything we thought it would be. Our start city, Traverse City, Michigan provided an awesome venue, with thousands lining the streets, cheering and welcoming each GR team. The Governor spoke of the rich tradition of the American automobile and Michigan. In all their splendor each driver and navigator headed off with enthusiasm. While I took the direct route to get to St. Ignace just in time to welcome the teams at their lunch stop, they rallied through beautiful Michigan. The drive over the Mackinac Bridge was incredible…5 miles of breathtaking views of where Lakes Huron and Michigan meet. On a personal note, I want to thank the two deer that leaped out in front of my car just prior to arriving in Sault Ste Marie. I wasn’t expecting them until I arrived in Ontario!
An enthusiastic crowd received us in the “Soo” as a lake freighter pass through the locks.
Tonight, an early evening for a very tired voice!
Tomorrow morning at 6:30, I’ll be crossing back into Ontario… for many Great Racers, their first time venturing into a new country with their rally cars. I can’t until they have to start converting miles into kilometres… should add an extra challenge!