The 2018 Hemmings Motor News Great Race presented by Hagerty started today! We lined up nearly 120 cars and trucks on Seneca Street, right outside the Pierce-Arrow Museum in downtown Buffalo, New York, and it didn’t take long for the streets to fill up with spectators. The day started with a little bit of wet weather, but we got a break in the moisture for a couple hours. The last 20 cars to roll through the starting line gate did so with a rain shower. From there, it was on the road to Batavia for a quick lunch on our own before we took to the back roads.
You could say that Great Racers like to take the scenic route, but if you had seen today’s route, it takes the “scenic route” to a whole new level. Not only did we see some beautiful New York countryside, we saw it a few times, and from a few different angles, thanks to a challenging course. Today’s course instructions sent us on a series of loops and mazes that kept everyone on their toes from start to finish. Turn after turn, the route went through farm land and a few small towns. It led us to our dinner stop in Fairport, New York, the hometown of Howard and Doug Sharp. Just like the last time we stopped in Fairport, the Sharps and their hometown crew pulled out all the stops. The venue itself is awesome, as Main Street in Fairport was beautifully prepared for our arrival. Thousands of people came to the event, despite some more wet weather in the forecast. The crowded streets made for a fun atmosphere as the cars rolled into place, and we couldn’t have asked for a better turnout. Congratulations are in order for Steve and Ed Tourje, who took home the daily win. A strong score on the first day is always a good way to kick off the Great Race.
Tomorrow we hit the road again, heading for Troy, New York with a lunch stop in Norwich, New York. Be sure to follow our Facebook page to get more photos and updates through the day.
Wonderful to see all the beautiful cars at the end of your first day. Turns out we will be able to see your arrival in Halifax. We arrive the day before you. Have a wonderful trip.
It was so great to be a witness to the start of the race in Buffalo. The museum, the cars, the people, the excitement in everyone’s eye; it was definitely an event to remember. Thank you to all the people who made made it possible. Good luck to all the teams who made it through the first stage. On to the next!
witnessed the start in Buffalo. Such a wonderful time. Speaking with the entrants and learning about the skills required to participate was fascinating.
I didnt know anything about this; went to Fairport on a date. I had no idea what was in store. Wonderful old cars, great friendly people. I wish I could travel along on this trip. Good luck to all.
I enjoyed the beginning of the Great Race 2018. I knew i would never see such a thing again. Jim Sandoro and the event organizers did a wonderful job. I am looking forward to following the progress of the race.
I also was there at the starting line in Buffalo. Great event !!! I will be following the race in spirit through this blog. Wishing all entrants a fantastic run to Halifax …
Watching them drive by our house on route 90 in homer ! So cool
Yesterday was the second time the cars went by my house in Barre NY. Last time was west bound. Great to see the different vehicles again. Safe journey to all the people involved in this event.
Great start #137!
Good job, Ed and Steve for day one win. Keep everyone in your rear view mirror. Only eight days to go.
What a great event. 2nd time for me to view,1st for my son. I drove a 1940 Buick to the welcome in 2000. This year a 1957 Nomad. A friend & I noticed 2 valve springs broke on the team from Finland’s car. He offered them some advice,so hopefully they will be able to continue on.
On my way to work on Ridge Road in Queensbury NY, I was met by an amazing site of MANY vintage cars pulled over in an empty lot. Wish I had stopped to take a picture of them all. #10 & #48 were at Cumberland Farms and I did get a picture of them. I met many more as I continued on my route. I’m now following you. Have fun, safe travels and good luck!
Awesome !!! We were there for the start… amazing people… everyone was so nice and enjoyable to talk to about the event… Pierce Arrow Museum was also a welcomed delight… thank you to locals for recommending places to eat… the wings were great and the roast beef on weck was delicious !
We realy enjoyed the start in Buffalo, wow such a worm bunch of people. Every one of the entrants we talked to offered so much information.
We are realy looking forward to being in it next year.
Thank you too Jeff, Pat and Pat, and all of the others for all the information and helpful hints.
Cheers to all.
Be safe.