Road America vintage racing starts Thursday

Every year vintage car enthusiasts gather at Road America to celebrate the beauty and performance of the world’s greatest race cars.

This year the Kohler International Challenge with Brian Redman, presented by Ford, will be held July 17–20 and will showcase more than 1,000 entries in 10 race groups, the Concours d’Elegance and touring.

Can-Am is the feature marque in addition to a special focus on F5000s, Scarabs, Lola and Historic Grand Prix.

The original Can–Am race series, which ran from 1966 to 1974, led to the development of the fastest, most sensational and innovative sports racing cars ever seen. The only rules were four wheels, two side-by-side seats, two doors of a minimum size, and a driver with nerve.

Inspired by the success of the Can–Am Series, Formula 5000 was introduced in 1968 using the same concept with open wheel cars. About 30 F5000 from the 1969–1976 era are entered in the event.

Some of the F5000 cars are of Lola design. Lola is being recognized this year for being one of the most productive and successful racing car designers and builders for almost every racing series worldwide for 50 years.

Scarabs burst onto the North American racing scene in the late 1950s. They were the most advanced front-engined sports racing cars of their time and were powered by the new Chevy V-8. Backed by Woolworth heir Lance Reventlow, the cars were designed and built by the renowned team of Troutman and Barnes. They dominated their time in racing history, repeatedly beating the big Ferraris and Maseratis. Of the eight Scarabs built, seven raced competitively for six seasons and won approximately 40 races. Six of these priceless cars will gather for a Scarab Reunion over the weekend.

Historic Grand Prix cars also return with their group of owner–drivers. These authentic vintage Formula One racing cars from the FIA 3-litre Formula era ran from 1966 to 1983. HGP focuses on the historically correct presentation and on-track performance of its cars. Former Formula One drivers include Mario Andretti, Bruce McLaren, Dennis Hulme, Dan Gurney and Gilles Villeneuve.

Kohler Co. returns as the title sponsor for its third year. Kohler will host autograph sessions with Brian Redman in their paddock display tent. As presenting sponsor of the event, Ford Motor Company will host Mustang Alley, Ford enthusiast activities and demo drives. Drivers of Mustangs will be admitted to the event for free on Saturday, July 19.

Other fan attractions include autograph sessions with celebrated racers, a Saturday autograph session with Packer legends, an automotive art and vendor fair, on-track touring, open go- karting and the two-night Concours d’Elegance.

Friday evening features race cars and starts with a 6 p.m. parade from the track to downtown Elkhart Lake. The cars then line the streets for judging and spectator viewing until 8 p.m. Sports cars are featured on Saturday, without a parade, from 6 to 8 p.m. More than 100 cars are featured each night with judging and awards. The Concours d’Elegance is sponsored by Road & Track magazine and is free for spectators.

Daily ticket prices are $15 Thursday, $25 Friday, $45 Saturday, and $45 on Sunday. Parking and paddock access are free with ticket purchase. Children 12 and younger are free when accompanied by a paying adult. On- site tent and motor home camping is available. Reservations are recommended. Tickets and camping may be ordered online at www.roadamerica.com or by calling 1-800-365-7223.