SAFEisFAST LEGENDS – PATRICK LONG PORSCHE’S AMERICAN ICON
Fellow racers, the latest instalment of our RRDC Legends Series features two-time Le Mans winner and Porsche factory driver Patrick Long.
In this video, we sat down with Patrick to hear his advice for young drivers and about his time as Porsche’s sole North American representative for 18 seasons.
Patrick also recalls his debut victory at La Sarthe and emphasizes the importance of diverse driving experience to help you become a better driver.
Bobby Rahal
SAFEisFAST.com
DOUG BOLES TO RUN BOTH IMS AND INDYCAR
Longtime Indianapolis Motor Speedway President Doug Boles will now also be president of the NTT IndyCar Series, a move that Penske Entertainment President and CEO Mark Miles says will benefit both organizations.
“Doug is the perfect guy to lead us in this time with this opportunity,” Miles stated. “Doug is well understood to be one of the best and most effective promoters and marketers in racing, and IMS has been the beneficiary of that through his leadership there. To be able to apply that skillset and background from Doug to both IMS and IndyCar made a lot of sense.
Doug Boles [USA Today image]
Boles had been president of IMS for seven years when Penske Entertainment bought out the Hulman family in 2020 and was retained in that position. In the past five years, he has managed more than $150m in strategic investments at the Speedway and overseen the sellout of the 100th Indianapolis 500, thought to be the event’s first full-capacity crowd.
“Racing is in my DNA, and no form of racing resonates more personally and strongly with me than the NTT IndyCar Series,” Boles said. “I’m honored to lead the amazing team at IndyCar, and I truly believe the future is bigger and brighter than ever for our sport and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
“I’m extremely grateful to Mark Miles for this opportunity, and fans can rest assured the hard work is already under way and 2025 will be a fantastic season.”
CHRIS POOK HONORED BY THE MOTORSPORTS HALL OF FAME OF AMERICA
Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach founder and visionary Chris Pook — who is largely regarded as the father of modern-day street course road racing in North America — will be doubly honored at the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America (MSHFA) 37th Induction Ceremony Presented by Toyota Racing Tuesday, March 11, at the Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront Resort. Just weeks before the 50th running of America’s premier street course race in Long Beach, Calif., Pook will be presented with the prestigious Bob Russo Heritage Award and serve as the Honorary Chair of the formal gala honoring MSHFA’s Class of 2025 inductees.
In addition to Pook’s entry into MSHFA as just the 17th Heritage Award recipient in the Hall’s nearly 40-year history, the complete Class of 2025 includes Skip Barber (Sports Cars), Miguel Duhamel (Motorcycles), Carl Haas (Open Wheel), Ed Iskenderian (At Large), Dale Jarrett (Stock Cars), Tony Schumacher (Drag Racing), Bill Stroppe (Off Road), Louie Unser (Historic) and William K. Vanderbilt (Historic).
The MSHFA’s highest honor next to induction, the Bob Russo Heritage Award is named in recognition of the longtime motorsports journalist and historian and is presented only by the recommendation of the MSHFA Board of Directors in recognition of the recipient’s contributions to motorsports.
Among the recent motorsports powerbrokers awarded the Bob Russo Heritage honor is Bass Pro Shops founder and CEO Johnny Morris, who was the first recipient of the award since 2017 at the 2023 MSHFA Induction Celebration. Last year, the first dual Heritage Award recipients in MSHFA history were presented with the honor, with Lynsi Snyder-Ellingson, the owner and president of In-N-Out Burger, for her efforts to preserve the future of drag racing in the U.S., and Edsel B. Ford II, the “Godfather” of Ford Motor Company’s racing efforts and a prominent ambassador for the sport of auto racing globally.
In addition to his Heritage Award honor, Ford was also the first to simultaneously serve last year as an Induction Ceremony Honorary Chair. Pook will capably fill those big shoes next month in Daytona as he accepts the Bob Russo Heritage Award in addition to presiding over the 37th Induction Ceremony presented by Toyota Racing as the 2025 Honorary Chair.
“It will be with great humility and considerable pride that I will accept this dual honor at the annual Motorsports Hall of Fame of America Induction Ceremony presented by Toyota Racing in March,” Pook said. “Of particular significance is that it comes on the 50th Anniversary of the first Long Beach Grand Prix, which would not have occurred without the help and support of many people, particularly the late Dan Gurney who embraced and supported the concept from the very start! I would also like to thank MSHFA President George Levy and the entire Board of Directors at the Motorsports Hall of Fame for bestowing this great honor, not only to me, but also indirectly on the City of Long Beach and everyone on the GPALB, Inc. team, past and present, who have shepherded the event to where it is today. Thank you!”
Inheriting his entrepreneurial spirit from his father, who ran a variety of small businesses, Pook was properly educated at a series of private schools in his native England before attending the Sorbonne University in Paris. He soon set his sights on America in 1963 when he was 22 and – after a day or two in New York City – decided the sunshine and business potential of Southern California better suited him. He settled in Long Beach, just south of Los Angeles, and started a successful travel agency.
Days after watching the Monaco Grand Prix on TV in 1973, Pook was working in his office listening to a mid-week radio broadcast of that May’s rain-delayed Indianapolis 500 and had the idea of a Monaco-style street race in Long Beach. While ideally located between Los Angeles and Orange County in the greater LA region, Long Beach lacked the sunny beach glamour of its neighbors and had instead developed into more of a seaside port town known more for its bars and adult movie theaters.
Unwavering in his focus and even relentless when on a mission, Pook soon convinced both the city of Long Beach and Formula 1 boss Bernie Ecclestone a major open-wheel street race would not only work in Long Beach but could transform the city into a Southern California destination similar in appeal to the region’s surrounding locales.
Pook in his element. [racer.com image]
The success of the 1975 race opened the door to the first Formula 1 event just over six months later in April of 1976. A victory by American Mario Andretti (MSHFA Class of 1990) in the 1977 race provided a major buzz in mainstream U.S. news, and around the world, and the Grand Prix of Long Beach was off and running. Formula 1 headlined at Long Beach for nine years before rising costs compelled Pook to switch to CART and Indy cars in 1984, and the race continued to grow.
Toyota became the race’s title sponsor in 1981 and over the following 38 years was Pook’s most powerful business partner. In that time, Pook’s “crazy idea” to go racing in the streets became a model copied across North America for bringing racing to the people and using it to rebuild flagging urban communities. Today celebrating its 50th anniversary, the now-Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach stands as IndyCar’s second biggest event outside of the Indianapolis 500 and is recognized throughout the world.
The 37th MSHFA Induction Celebration Presented by Toyota Racing takes place March 10 – 11 at the Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront Resort. The black-tie gala is the crowning event of this year’s two-day Induction Celebration. For the complete two-day schedule, additional information and to purchase tickets, visit the MSHFA at http://www.mshf.com or contact MSHFA president Levy at (248) 895-1704 or glevy@mshf.com. – Article by the staff of racer.com
BOB BAILEY ON BEING REUNITED WITH HIS 1968 PORSCHE 911L
Bob Bailey, the founder of Racemark International, a manufacturer of automotive-interior products and a member of the RRDC since 2015 told this story Wall Street Journal contributor A. J. Baime about being reunited with his 1968 Porsche 911L.
“I grew up in a little town in upstate New York called Burnt Hills and started racing cars when I was 18. In 1968, the Porsche factory built a small number of 911 “Lightweights” specifically to compete in the Sports Car Club of America Trans-Am Series in the U.S. According to my records, my car was the first of these imported, and I got it through Bob Holbert, a famous racing driver and Porsche dealer at the time. I got it about three weeks before the Trans-Am race at Lime Rock Park in Connecticut, and I immediately started work to get it ready.
“This car came from the factory with all lightweight equipment. We put in a roll cage and a fuel cell. My teammate, Jim Locke, and I took it to Lime Rock and came in fifth overall and second in the under 2-liter class.
“We raced this car all over the country for two years. The Trans-Am series during this era was some of the greatest racing of all time, with Mark Donohue and Parnelli Jones—two of the best drivers of the era—competing. Then we formed a team with Porsche of America, painted the car white with blue stripes and raced it for another two years, including at the 12 Hours of Sebring and the 24 Hours of Daytona against drivers like Mario Andretti, Dan Gurney, and the actor Steve McQueen [the latter race, now called the Rolex 24, was held last weekend].
“In those days, we never realized that these beat-up race cars would be worth anything. When I sold this car, I got whatever I could for it. I never imagined that I would see it again.
“Some years later, I got a phone call from a movie director and producer in Los Angeles named Michael Scott, who had purchased the 911. He knew I was the original owner, and I sent him press clippings and photographs. He spent years restoring this car to how it was originally when I raced it in the ’60s, with my name painted on it and everything. The work was done by Alberto Ferroni at Ital Meccanica in Huntington Beach, Calif., and he did an excellent job.
“Then, one day, Scott called me and said he was going to put the car up for auction. But he asked me, did I want to buy it? Scott was amazing, and he sold it to me for about what he had put into it. I think it was $155,000, about 10 years ago. Old race cars like this, with competition history, have skyrocketed in value.
“My son, Cannon, and I have raced the 1968 Porsche in vintage races around the country, and it has been amazing taking it back to the racetracks where I competed in it decades ago, like Sebring in Florida, Road America in Wisconsin and Laguna Seca in California. We have taken it on classic car rallies, like the Colorado Grand, a multiday tour for vintage cars crisscrossing Colorado on back roads.
“It is an incredible feeling to see this car and remember all the trials and tribulations we have been through together. And we are not done yet.” – As told to A.J. Baime, Wall Street Journal, Jan. 27, 2025.
TIM CINDRIC STEPPING BACK AT TEAM PENSKE
Tim Cindric is stepping back from the day-to-day operations of Team Penske where he has served as president for 25 years. Cindric joined Penske in 1999 and oversaw all competition operations in NASCAR, IndyCar, and sports car racing in both IMSA and the World Endurance Championship.
In addition, Cindric oversees Penske Technology Group, Penske Restoration, the Penske Heritage Center and the Penske Racing Museum.
Roger Penske and Tim Cindric. [ESPN image]
“I’ve decided I need to make a change that provides me with the flexibility I need at this stage of my career. I appreciate the understanding Roger has provided throughout our conversations, and I’m confident this team will continue to succeed as we have a proven leadership team in all areas.”
In his tenure as president of Team Penske, Cindric has overseen 10 Indy 500 wins, three Daytona 500 victories, and overall wins at the 12 Hours of Sebring and the Rolex. The team has recorded eight IndyCar championships, five NASCAR Cup titles, one GTP and two DPi IMSA Sports Car championships and the 2024 FIA World Endurance Championship title.
RRDC TO CELEBRATE 50 YEARS OF THE LONG BEACH GRAND PRIX
Road Racing Drivers Club President Bobby Rahal and Grand Prix Association of Long Beach President Jim Michaelian cordially invite you to the RRDC Celebration of 50 years of the Grand Prix of Long Beach presented by Firestone.
Donations and proceeds from Silent and Live Auction items benefit
The Mark Donohue Foundation, which supports the RRDC’s
SAFEisFAST initiative, and the
Grand Prix Foundation of Long Beach
scholarship fund and community support.
Click here for more event details:
Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs
Donate Now to the Mark Donohue Foundation – SAFEisFAST Program
Donate Now to the Grand Prix Foundation of Long Beach
Sponsorship opportunities available.
Please contact Tim McGrane at TMcGrane4@gmail.com
Guest relations questions?
Please contact 2025 Event Coordinator
Cindy McGrane at Cindy.McGrane@gmail.com
CHARLIE PETER RECEIVES THE 2024 MARK DONOHUE AWARD BY THE RRDC
Charlie Peter, winner of both the 2024 Touring 2 and GT-2 SCCA® National Championships, was named the recipient of the Road Racing Drivers Club’s (RRDC) Mark Donohue Award. Peter was honored at the annual RRDC members’ dinner on January 22, prior to the running of the Rolex 24 At Daytona, the season-opening round of the 2025 IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship.
Selected by members of the RRDC each year since 1971, the award recognizes the driver exhibiting the most outstanding performance at the annual Sports Car Club of America National Championship Runoffs® in terms of personal spirit and skill behind the wheel. Originally called the “Outstanding Performance Award,” the honor was later named after Mark Donohue, a former SCCA Champion, an inductee in the SCCA Hall of Fame and past president of the RRDC, following his death in 1975.
Charlie Peter holds the right corner of the Mark Donohue Award Coffee Table Top with Mark’s son David Donohue and award committee chair Calvin Stewart on his left. [Brian Cleary image]
Peter hustles his Phenix Label/Hoosier Tire BMW M2CS Cup around Road America, capturing the Touring 2 title Friday. [Jeff Loewe image]
“It was an incredible battle!” Peter said. “Learning from previous Runoffs starts with Kurt, I knew I had to stay on his bumper or get by him by Turn One. Luckily for me, Kurt had a slow gear shift after the green, which gave me the edge I needed into the first turn. I knew he’d get me back eventually, since he had the straightaway speed, but I figured I’d have a chance if I could keep pressure on him without wearing my tires.”
Regarding his tires, Peter noted that he was the only car on the grid starting the sprint race on scuffed tires.
“That was a genius decision by Mirl Swan,” he added. “We knew Kurt would have the pace for the race’s fastest lap, but as long as I didn’t let him run away, my tires would have the pace for the entirety of the race.”
Peter using maximum road in his KCR Phenix Label/Yokohama Porsche 991.2 GT3 Cup in claiming the GT2 championship at Road America on Sunday. [Rick Corwine image]
”Honestly, I thought that was the end of my Runoffs in GT-2,” Peter said. “That is, until Bart Wolf let us pull the transmission out of one of the cars in his shop down the street. Making the grid alone felt like a huge win to me!”
Peter’s pair of wins achieved the rare Runoffs double, something his father Hans Peter accomplished in 2007, winning C Sports Racing and Formula Atlantic. Charlie credits his father for his development as a driver.
Charlie Peter hoists on of his two SCCA National Champiobnship trophies at Road America. [SCCA image]
The unique award has a glass top and sits on a race wheel with a historic provenance. RRDC member David Donohue, son of Mark Donohue, presented Peter with the award, which included a wheel donated by Meyer Shank Racing that was used on its No. 60 Acura GTP car in victories at the Rolex 24 At Daytona, Canadian Tire Motorsport Park and the Mobil 1 Petit Le Mans with drivers Tom Blomqvist and Colin Braun.
Peter found out that he had been selected for the Mark Donohue Award after a phone call from RRDC President Bobby Rahal.
“I was at work when I saw an incoming call from an unrecognized Ohio phone number. I figured if it was important, they could leave a message.” he said. “Thankfully, he left a message because after listening to the voicemail, I realized I had ignored a phone call from Bobby Rahal! Before calling him back, I prepared my INDYCAR driver contract acceptance speech.
“This is a considerable honor, an award I never through that I would achieve. Mark has been an idol of mine since I was young, and because of him, I take pride in working on the car that I race.”
Past recipients Calvin Stewart (2015) and SCCA Vice President Eric Prill (2017) joined Donohue in the presentation. – Judy Stropus
MIKE SHANK EARNS RRDC’S 2024 PHIL HILL AWARD
Mike Shank, team owner of Meyer Shank Racing, which competes in IMSA and INDYCAR, was honored by the Road Racing Drivers Club with the 2024 Phil Hill Award. The 2019 award recipient, RRDC President Bobby Rahal, made the presentation at the annual RRDC members’ dinner on January 22 prior to the 63rd running of the Rolex 24 At Daytona, the season opener of the 2025 IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship.
Phil Hill [Al Satterwhite image]
It is named in honor of America’s first Formula 1 World Champion (in 1961), and is not only a tribute to his masterful accomplishments on the race track, it also recognizes his contributions as a great ambassador for the sport. Hill passed away in 2008.
Mike Shank first started racing professionally in 1989, competing in SCCA, Toyota Atlantic C2 Championship and the Indy Racing League. He eventually retired as a driver to become a team owner. He fielded cars in the Champ Car Toyota Atlantic Championship and the GRAND-AM Rolex Sports Car Series, earning Toyota Atlantic’s “Team Owner of the Year” Award twice in four years.
Mike Shank receives the prestigious Phil Hill Award from RRDC President Bobby Rahal. [Brian Cleary image]
The same year Shank managed the debut of the factory Acura Motorsports team in IMSA WeatherTech competition, giving the Acura NSX GT3 its first victory and pole position. Shank was also awarded the 2017 Rolex Bob Snodgrass Award of Excellence, presented by The Gorsline Company.
Mike Shank [Meyer-Shank Racing image]
“This is an awesome award and it represents something so special in racing,” said Rahal. “To me, Phil Hill was not only a great driver, he was a true gentleman and a great proponent of the sport. He represented motor racing to the world, especially in this country, in such a manner, such a fashion, that is something you had to admire.
“We’ve had a lot of great recipients of the Phil Hill Award over the years, and this year’s honoree is no different. When you think about who should get this award, you think of somebody who does it all and did it on his terms,” added Rahal. “Frankly, it was pretty easy to decide this year. We have a lot of respect for Mike Shank and all he’s done over the years. And some days probably didn’t look so bright [for Shank] but here he is representing Acura in IMSA and Honda in INDYCAR. Michael, congratulations, man. I think you are a worthy recipient of this great award.”
NBC sports commentator and RRDC member Leigh Diffey conducted an interview with Shank, eliciting this grateful comment from the team owner: “I’m overwhelmed,” said Shank. “I think it is an unbelievable honor and it just makes me feel pretty small. Everything I did in racing I did just to survive and try to advance to where I wanted to be, but to get recognized by the RRDC with the Phill Hill Award is beyond words.”
PATRICK LONG IS THE RRDC’S 2024 BOB AKIN AWARD WINNER
Patrick Long was named the 2024 recipient of the RRDC Bob Akin Award. He was honored at the annual Road Racing Drivers Club members’ dinner on January 22, prior to the running of the 63rd Rolex 24 At Daytona, the season opener of the 2025 IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship.
Each recipient of this honor, considered the top prize in motorsports for amateur, vintage/historic or semi-professional drivers, is selected by Akin’s son Bobby, RRDC members Brian Redman and Judy Stropus, and approved by RRDC president Bobby Rahal.
Patrick Long holds the distinctive Bob Akin Award, flanked by RRDC President Bobby Rahal, Judy Stropus and Bobby Akin, son of the late Bob Akin. [Brian Cleary image]
It was designed by Steuben Glass in Corning, New York, and is given to a driver who best exemplifies the extraordinary qualities and characteristics that Akin represented, including a passion for motorsports and automobiles, a high level of sportsmanship and fair play, and who has contributed to the sport of motor racing and the community at large.
Bob Akin
The primary award, etched with the names of the recipients, is displayed at the International Motor Racing Research Center in Watkins Glen, New York. Each honoree receives a smaller replica.
A modern-day Porsche polymath, Patrick Long is familiar to the U.S. air-cooled car scene as one of the founding fathers of the Luftgekühlt brand for lovers of air-cooled Porsches. A Porsche Brand Ambassador and competition advisor for Porsche Motorsport, Long also heads up North America’s young driver development program, sharing almost 20 years of international experience as a Porsche factory driver with the sports car stars of tomorrow.
Long’s close ties to the brand were forged at the start of the new millennium, when his precocious talent in single-seaters came to the attention of Porsche’s scouts. Initially recruited as a Porsche Junior, Long found himself on the Works roster soon after, competing initially for The Racer’s Group in the ALMS endurance series and the Rolex Sports Car Series in 2004.
At home aboard every subsequent generation of 911 GT3 Cup, R and RSR, Long has claimed class wins for Porsche at the big four endurance classics, come second in class in IMSA and won the Blancpain GT World Challenge America.
He’s also won in the World Endurance Championship, twice reached the top step at Le Mans 24 Hours and won his class at both the Bathurst 12 Hours and the Nurburgring 24 Hours.
“This year’s recipient of the RRDC Bob Akin Award has a legendary pedigree, with wins and multiple championships,” said Akin. “His tenure with Porsche spanned over a decade, but that’s not why he was chosen. Like my father, our winner has a true passion for driving and the people involved in motorsport. You’ll still find him in historic events, often driving one of my dad’s old 935s, just because he loves it.
Patrick Long [Porsche Motorsports image]
“He also spends time working with young drivers and always takes time to provide advice, counsel, mentorship and guidance for people who are just getting started. What he and his team on the business side have put together, including [fellow] Akin Award winner Jeff Zwart, in creating Luftgekühlt, has transcended the car culture as a global phenomenon that brings people of all ages together to celebrate cars in a truly spectacular way.
“To me, the most important criteria of the Akin Award is being a good guy. I have known our winner for the better part of 20 years and have had the pleasure of watching his evolution as a driver and businessman. He is a truly good human. Please welcome Patrick Long.”
“I’m super honored and humbled,” said Long. “When I got this phone call from Bobby [Akin], I was emotional and it led me into a little bit of reflection. Everything that I’ve always known about Bob Akin is what a gentleman he was, what a competitor he was, what a leader he was, what a family man he was. All these things that you would aspire to be recognized for one day.
“When Bobby told me I’d be receiving this award, I felt a sense of relief and a sense of pride that the last four years have been a reset button for me. It’s been about being present, about being conscious, about being a leader and a family man, and everything that my ability didn’t allow me to do when I was a Works driver because I was just completely on edge and would do anything to put it on pole or bring a car across the finish line.
“I am very, very honored to accept this award and my pledge going forward is to think about who Bob Akin was as a character and to make myself available to the next generation and to lead my team in business, and my family, as Bob Akin would’ve done. Thanks for having me.” – Judy Stropus
LATEST SAFEisFAST VIDEO: MAXIMIZING CORNER ENTRY
Fellow racers, Corner entry is arguably the most important factor in turning out a good lap time. From your braking technique to your steering inputs, there’s a lot that determines your speed into every corner.
This is why our latest Guest Editor Scott Mansell, renowned driver coach and founder of Driver61, has chosen this topic for our first video of 2025.
In this film, learn from champion drivers, including Sebastien Bourdais, Marcus Ericsson, James Hinchcliffe, Sting Ray Robb, Conor Daly, Pietro Fittipaldi, Christian Lundgaard and Colton Herta, so you too can Maximize Corner Entry.
Check it out!
Bobby Rahal
SAFEisFAST.com
HELIO CASTRONEVES TO TAKE A CRACK AT THE DAYTONA 500
Since winning his fourth Indianapolis 500 in 2021, Helio Castroneves has expressed his desire to compete in the biggest race in NASCAR Cup Series racing – the Daytona 500.
On Monday, January 6, Castroneves got his wish, thanks to NASCAR Cup Series team owner Justin Marks and his Project91 team at Trackhouse Racing.
He will drive the No. 91 Wendy’s Chevrolet.
Castroneves Is one of only five drivers to win the Indianapolis 500 in back-to-back years when he won in 2001 and 2002. Since then, Josef Newgarden has become the sixth driver to win the Indy 500 back-to-back with his victories in 2023 and 2024.
Castroneves became a three-time winner in 2009 and finally reached the four-time Indy 500 winner level with a dramatic victory over Alex Palou in the 2021. Castroneves joined racing legends A.J. Foyt (1961, 1964, 1967 and 1977), the late Al Unser (1970, 1971, 1978 and 1987) and Rick Mears (1979, 1984, 1988 and 1991) to win the Indianapolis 500 four times in their career.
Justin Marks
Project91 was created by Marks to give top international drivers a chance to compete in NASCAR including Australian Supercars star Shane van Gisbergen, who won the Grant Park 220 Chicago Street Race on July 2, 2023. It was the first time a driver drove to victory in his first-ever NASCAR Cup Series race since Johnny Rutherford won at Daytona in 1963.
The first Project91 driver was Kimi Raikkonen, competing at Watkins Glen in 2022 and Circuit of the Americas in ’23.
Castroneves is currently an ownership partner at Meyer Shank Racing in IndyCar and will compete in the 2025 Indianapolis 500 as he attempts to become the first five-time winner in the history of the famed race.
The No. 91 Chevrolet will carry the Wendy’s livery during the 2025 Speedweeks as he seeks to join Mario Andretti and A.J. Foyt as the only drivers to win the both Daytona 500 and Indianapolis 500.
“Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would enter a NASCAR race and certainly not the Daytona 500 with a team like Trackhouse Racing,” said Castroneves.
“This is an opportunity that nobody in their right mind could ever turn down. I am so thankful to Wendy’s for allowing me to wear their uniform and drive their car and Justin Marks and everyone that made this happen. I wish the race were tomorrow!”
[Story excerpted from a Bruce Martin article in SpeedSport News.]
REMINDER – RRDC ANNUAL MEMBERS DINNER AT DAYTONA
Thanks to the organizational skills of RRDC member Lisa Noble, the RRDC will hold its annual members’ dinner at the Daytona 500 Club in advance of the 63rd Rolex 24 At Daytona.
The RRDC members’ dinner has become the perfect venue for members and their guests to bench race, meet, and enjoy an evening filled with camaraderie, nostalgia and awards presentations.
The featured award of the evening will be the 31st Phil Hill Award (for rendering outstanding service to road racing).
Also, the 23rd RRDC Bob Akin Award and the 54th RRDC Mark Donohue Awards will be presented.
The program is scheduled to end before 9 p.m., so that those participating in the Rolex 24 will be bright-eyed and bushy-tailed for morning practice.
Please make your reservations by January 14, 2025, as seats will be filling quickly. We regret that no late reservations can be accepted.
If you have any questions, please contact Lisa Noble at noblerace@aol.com.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Thank you,
Bobby Rahal
President
RRDC TO CELEBRATE 50 YEARS OF RACING AT LONG BEACH WITH EXPANDED LEGENDS DINNER AND GALA
Bobby Rahal, president of the Road Racing Drivers Club (RRDC), has announced an expanded 2025 RRDC Legends Dinner and Gala, which will celebrate the 50 years of racing on the streets of Long Beach, Calif., and will honor Mario Andretti, Al Unser Jr. and Brian Redman, legendary drivers from the Grand Prix’s rich history.
Mario Andretti winning LBGP in 1984. [Speedcafe image]
All proceeds of the dinner will benefit The Mark Donohue Foundation, which supports the RRDC’s SAFEisFAST initiative, and the Grand Prix Foundation of Long Beach, which supports charities in the Long Beach area. The Foundation’s proceeds from the gala will go to Long Beach City College’s Automotive Technology Program.
Andretti, Unser and Redman will be honored at the event and attendees will be treated to a “David Letterman-style” interview of the honorees by Rahal.
Al Unser Jr. takes his 5th LBGP in 1994. [Pinterest image]
“We at the Road Racing Drivers Club are thrilled to join the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach in celebrating 50 years of ‘racing through the streets’ of this beautiful California shore city,” said Rahal. “This event has become an icon of the sport, and not just with IndyCars. Its history includes Formula 1, Formula 5000, Trans-Am, and even the popular celebrity races.
Brian Redman wins the 1975 Long Beach F5000 race, the precusor to the F1 race. [Speedcafe image]
“Each year, the Road Racing Drivers Club event is a highlight of the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach weekend,” said Grand Prix Association of Long Beach President & CEO Jim Michaelian. “And this year is especially meaningful as we join with the RRDC in honoring three true legends of the sport—Mario Andretti, Al Unser Jr., and Brian Redman. Their contributions to Long Beach motorsports history have inspired generations of drivers and fans alike, and we are thrilled to celebrate their incredible legacies during this special evening.”
Andretti and Unser have been named co-Grand Marshalls for the event.
SAFEisFAST – OVAL RACING IS MORE THAN JUST TURNING LEFT
Fellow Racers, Oval racing might look simple enough, but there is far more to mastering speedways than just turning left.
Your first oval experience can be a daunting one, with much higher speeds and way less margin for error which require a completely different approach behind the wheel to road and street courses.
In our latest video, our oval racing pros – including four-time Champ Car champion Sebastien Bourdais and Indy 500 winner Marcus Ericsson – give their top tips on how to utilize the unique tools inside the car for maximum performance on ovals. Other pros offering oval racing insight are Conor Daly, Colton Herta, James Hinchcliffe, Sting Ray Robb, Pietro Fittipaldi and Christian Lundgaard.
Bobby Rahal
SAFEisFAST.com
THE ANNUAL RRDC DAYTONA MEMBERS’ DINNER SET FOR WEDNESDAY, JAN. 22, 2025
THE ANNUAL RRDC DAYTONA DINNER SET FOR WEDNESDAY, JAN. 22, 2025
The Annual RRDC Members’ Dinner at Daytona is set for Wednesday, January 22, 2025.
Only members in good standing are welcome to register for the dinner. It is recommended that you pay your 2025 dues first, before registering for the dinner.
Dues may be paid at https://rrdc.org/member-login/#myaccount.
The RRDC.org web site now accepts credit cards for payments!
DINNER REGISTRATION: To register for the dinner, here is the link to the rrdc.org events page. Then click on the “Blue” words and it takes you to the events page to register for the dinner. (Two steps to register)
https://rrdc.org/events/#!event-list
Or, go directly to https://rrdc.org/events/#!event/2025/1/22/2025-rrdc-annual-daytona-member-dinner-and-awards-ceremony-to-be-held-in-the-500-club-at-the-daytona-international-speedway
HERE’S EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE RRDC ANNUAL MEMBERS’ DINNER
WHERE:
Daytona 500 Club (infield)
Daytona International Speedway
1801 W. International Speedway Blvd.
Daytona Beach, Fla. 32114
WHEN:
Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025 – in advance of the Rolex 24 At Daytona
5:00 p.m. cocktails
6:15 p.m. RRDC member photo
6:30 p.m. dinner
INVITEES:
All RRDC members in good standing and personal guests ONLY.
Please make sure you’ve paid your 2025 dues!
DRESS:
Business casual
COST:
$180 per person (members and guests). $200 after January 8.
Tables of 10 are available for $1800 each, and $2000 each after January 8.
PARKING and TRACK ENTRY:
- Please enter at Gate 40 off Williamson Blvd. Security/guest services will have a list with your name on it.
- Let them know you are attending the Annual RRDC Dinner in the Daytona 500 Club.
- There will be directional signage to lot 2A and parking staff with golf carts to assist you before and after the event.
- The 500 Club is in the infield tower building located at Victory Circle.
EVENT PASSES FOR THE ROLEX 24:
If you are attending the Members’ Dinner at the 500 Club and wish to receive General Admission event passes for the Rolex 24, please let Judy Stropus know at jstropus@earthlink.net.
Thanks to Frank Kelleher, president of DIS, for providing these passes. They include access to the garage area in the paddock.
Please pick them up when you check in for the dinner at the 500 Club. They will be in envelopes in your names.
______________________________________________________________________
A NOTE FROM THE PRESIDENT:
Dear RRDC Members,
Thanks to the organizational skills of RRDC member Lisa Noble, the RRDC will hold its annual members’ dinner at the Daytona 500 Club in advance of the 63rd Rolex 24 At Daytona.
The RRDC members’ dinner has become the perfect venue for members and their guests to bench race, meet, and enjoy an evening filled with camaraderie, nostalgia and awards presentations.
The featured award of the evening will be the 31st Phil Hill Award (for rendering outstanding service to road racing).
Also, the 23rd RRDC Bob Akin Award and the 54th RRDC Mark Donohue Awards will be presented.
The program is scheduled to end before 9 p.m., so that those participating in the Rolex 24 will be bright-eyed and bushy-tailed for morning practice.
Please make your reservations by January 14, 2025, as seats will be filling quickly. We regret that no late reservations can be accepted.
If you have any questions, please contact Lisa Noble at noblerace@aol.com.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Thank you,
Bobby Rahal
President
Always go to www.rrdc.org for the latest RRDC member news and info.
ZAK BROWN AT THE HELM FOR McLAREN’S FIRST F1 CONSTRUCTORS’ TITLE IN 26 YEARS
Zak Brown, who took the reins of McLaren in 2018, reached one of his primary goals Sunday when Lando Norris won the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix – the victory clinching the 2024 Formula 1 Constructors’ Championship. It was McLaren’s first constructors’ title since 1998 and the tenth in the organization’s history, second only to Ferrari.
The ebullient CEO has been not only the leader of the company’s motorsports effort but also its public face and cheerleader. His promoting Italian engineer Andre Stella to Team Principal solidified McLaren’s resurgence to the sharp end of the grid.
With McLaren leading Ferrari by 21 points coming into the season finale in Abu Dhabi, it looked very good for the Woking team with Norris and teammate Oscar Piastri claiming the front row in qualifying. The team’s quiet confidence lasted for the first quarter mile of the race. That’s when Piastri was spun out by a lunging Max Verstappen, and Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz slipped through to second behind Norris.
It was tense from there to the finish for Zak Brown as Ferrari pilot Charles LeClerc moved from deep in the field to third making it imperative that Norris continue to hold point. Any difficulty for the race-leading McLaren would hand the constructors’ title to Ferrari.
“What an awesome team effort,” Brown said on the Sky Sports / ESPN telecast “Amazing! That was stressful!”
“That was the most miserable two hours of my life,” Brown later said while awaiting the trophy ceremony where he took to the podium with Norris to accept the constructors’ victory trophy.
JOSEF NEWGARDEN GETS HIS SECOND IMAGE ON BORG-WARNER TROPHY
On Wednesday, Josef Newgarden was present at the unveiling of his likeness on Borg-Warner Trophy presented winners of the Indianapolis 500 since 1936. It is his second bas-relief sterling silver image on the iconic trophy, as he scored his second consecutive 500 victory in May, becoming the sixth member of an exclusive club of back-to-back winners – Helio Castroneves (2001-02); Al Unser, Sr. (1970-71); Bill Vukovich (1953-54); Mauri Rose (1947-48); and Wilbur Shaw (1939-40).
Sculptor Will Behrends with Josef Newgarden’s bust for 2024. [IMS image]
Engraver Reid Smith. [IMS image]
This life-size clay version is used as reference for Behrends to construct the smaller model, a piece created out of a mixture of oil-based clay. The smaller clay model is turned into a mold and cast in wax before being sent to a jeweler to be transformed into sterling silver. Behrends completes his process by polishing and buffing the sculpture before attaching it to the trophy.
KATHERINE LEGGE’S INDYCAR SPONSOR WINS TWO CLIO AWARDS
Katherine Legge’s Indianapolis 500 sponsor on the No. 51 Dale Coyne Racing Honda – e.i.f Cosmetics (eyes, lips, face) – received Clio Awards at ceremonies in New York City Wednesday in both the Experience/Activation and Fan Engagement categories.
Photo by John Cote
The two-pronged promotion through in-person outreaches at the Speedway in May plus an extensive digital media campaign drew praise for promoting both Legge and the participation of women in motorsports.
Legge told RACER: “The e.l.f. Cosmetics collaboration was by far and away the most meaningful partnership I have ever seen in racing from a female perspective. I am beyond proud to represent a brand that cares so much about the same things that I do and am very much looking forward to doing more great and meaningful things with them to change the landscape of racing.”
ANDY LALLY TO RETIRE AND TAKE UP REINS OF TRANS-AM SERIES
Andy Lally will soon retire from active competition to join the Parella Motorsports Holdings as president of the Trans-Am Series. The three-time Grand Am champion in prototypes and GTs, 2011 NASCAR Cup Rookie of the Year and five-time winner of the Rolex 24 At Daytona, will take part in IMSA’s January 
endurance racing classic at Daytona International Speedway with his longstanding Magnus Racing team.
In an exclusive interview with RACER, Lally told Marshall Pruett, “The timing of this is important. I could probably extend my driving career another two or three years, but when something like this comes along that could end up bringing another 10-plus years in the sport, you say yes to it immediately, and I have to thank Tony Parella [founder and CEO of series owner Parella Motorsports Holdings] for making this happen for me. When he presented it to me, it just made so much sense.
“I think I have a lot to contribute. I’m sure that there will be a lot of people really shocked reading this, as this is coming out of left field, but I’ve seen other really good business decisions that Tony and his team have made in the past that have worked out really well, and I’m going to work really hard to make sure that this is another one. It’s a very respectful and smooth transition out of the driver’s seat and into an official capacity with a series that I love.”
“I could not be more excited to have Andy Lally join us as the president of Trans Am,” said PMH CEO Tony Parella. “Andy is one of the most respected, knowledgeable, talented, and accomplished leaders in motorsports.”
CHIP GANASSI NOMINATED FOR EMPA HALL OF FAME
The Eastern Motorsport Press Association (EMPA) has released the ballot to its membership for voting in the 2025 inductees to the prestigious EMPA Hall of Fame along with other special awards that will be presented during the organization’s 52nd annual convention, set for Jan. 10-12.
Chip Ganassi is one of eight nominees including journalist “Bones” Bouncier, sprint car legends Sammy Swindell, Rich Ferkel and Steve Smith, Jr., dirt modified champion Jimmy Horton, dirt racing icon Alan Johnson and Pocono Raceway CEO Nick Igdalsky.
NHRA perennial champion Don Prudhomme and NASCAR Cup Series and pavement Modified star Steve Park will also be going into the hall of fame as automatic lock-ins.
MARIO ANDRETTI NAMED TO GENERAL MOTORS BOARD – GM/CADILLAC F1 TEAM TO JOIN FORMULA ONE IN 2026
The Andretti family will retain an involvement in the revised plan for a General Motors Formula 1 team, with 1978 world champion Mario Andretti serving as a director on the board.
On Monday F1 announced it has agreed in principle a deal to allow an entry for the GM group to enter grand prix racing in 2026 with its own team.
This came as part of a restructured plan from the original idea of a Cadillac-backed Andretti entry, which F1 rejected earlier in the year.
The revamped idea for the project, which has come with original team founder Michael Andretti recently stepping back from his involvement, means that the Andretti name will no longer be a part of the F1 operation.
Instead, it will be a GM/Cadillac team in association with the TWG Global company, which owns and operates Andretti Global.
While that could have meant no involvement for the Andretti name, GM has announced that some ties will remain. And that revolves around Mario Andretti serving as a director, but “not involved in day-to-day operations”.
Mario Andretti was F1 World Champion in 1978, piloting Colin Chapman’s Lotus 79. [conceptcarz.com image]
Speaking about his role, he said: “My first love was Formula 1 and now – 70 years later – the F1 paddock is still my happy place.
“I’m absolutely thrilled with Cadillac, Formula 1, Mark Walter, and Dan Towriss. To still be involved at this stage of my life — I have to pinch myself to make sure I’m not dreaming.”
Michael Andretti drove the 1993 F1 season for McLaren. [The Mike Haywood Collection image]
While Mario’s son Michael, who originally began the project when he ran Andretti Global, will not play any part in how things develop, he says he also fully supports what GM is doing.
Posting on X, he said: “The Cadillac F1 Team is made up of a strong group of people that have worked tirelessly to build an American works team.
“I’m very proud of the hard work they have put in and congratulate all involved on this momentous next step. I will be cheering for you!”
HELIO CASTRONEVES NAMED 2025 AMELIA HONOREE
Helio Castroneves, who in 2021 joined A.J. Foyt, Al Unser and Rick Mears, as the only four-time winners of the Indianapolis 500, has been named 2025 Honoree for The Amelia Concours d’Elegance, celebrating its 30th anniversary at the Amelia Island Ritz-Carlton, March 6-9.
“There’s clearly a synergy between people who love racing and those who love concours, and The Amelia is the intersection of both those passions, each of which I hold dearly,” said Castroneves. “To be honoree of the event during its 30th year is also an honor and so special, and I look forward to celebrating with The Amelia community.”
Built on a historic legacy of excellence, The Amelia 2025 weekend will feature seminars, films, celebrations, auctions, driving experiences and, of course, the renowned Concours d’Elegance, where guests will enjoy hundreds of vehicles ranging from 1930s Alfa Romeos to the most advanced F1 race cars.
PENSKE ENTERTAINMENT ACQUIRES GRAND PRIX ASSOCIATION OF LONG BEACH
Penske Entertainment announced today the newest member of its growing event portfolio, confirming the acquisition of the Grand Prix Association of Long Beach, LLC, from longtime owner Gerald R. Forsythe. The association administers the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach, the longest-running major street circuit race in North America. The purchase is expected to provide significant investment for the marquee NTT INDYCAR SERIES race, to further enhance this can’t-miss celebration of speed and Southern California motorsport culture for years to come.
This upcoming year marks the 50th edition of the Grand Prix of Long Beach, with special programming planned to mark the occasion. The race will return to network television, with FOX set to broadcast the event Sunday, April 13.
“We’re incredibly proud to be the new stewards of this cherished and iconic event,” said Roger Penske. “This is the most historic and prestigious street circuit race in North America, and we’re excited to work with Jim Michaelian and his great team in Long Beach to ensure continued success and growth over the long term. This race and its loyal fans matter so much to everyone across the INDYCAR community, and we’re looking forward to a very special 50th anniversary celebration this April, as well.”
“As we prepare to celebrate a truly remarkable milestone, the 50th anniversary of this amazing event, it’s fitting that we have such exciting and important news to share about its future,” said Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach President & CEO Jim Michaelian. “Roger and the team at Penske Entertainment understand the special history and unique qualities that give us such a strong foundation and will be ideal partners as we continue to deliver an exceptional race weekend for our fans moving forward. I also want to acknowledge the significant contribution that the previous owners, Jerry Forsythe and the late Kevin Kalkhoven, made to the success of our event over the past 19 years.”
As an acclaimed and highly attended annual event located in the nation’s entertainment capital, the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach is a premier race weekend for the NTT INDYCAR SERIES. Working alongside the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach team, Penske Entertainment plans to invest in bolstering and enhancing the experience for race fans, sponsors and hospitality customers.
“This is a major race weekend, not just on our calendar but across the motorsport landscape,” Penske Entertainment President & CEO Mark Miles said. “We’re committed to preserving the core attributes that make it best in class while also working on some exciting and bold initiatives to make its future even bigger and brighter.”
The three-day weekend regularly attracts crowds of over 190,000 people to its 1.968-mile racecourse surrounding the Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center. The 2024 edition featured a supercharged atmosphere, which included the largest attendance in the modern INDYCAR era. The event brings global attention and positive economic impact to its home city, while also maintaining a charitable organization – the Grand Prix Foundation of Long Beach – which has donated more than $4.2 million to those in need within the Long Beach community.
“The Grand Prix is an incredibly vital and vibrant asset for our community and an annual event that drives commerce, attracts tourism and elevates cultural connectivity across our city,” said Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson. “Penske Entertainment will be a committed and energetic partner for the future that seeks to preserve and enhance this event’s rich history and strong legacy. We’re looking forward to a great working relationship that benefits everyone who calls Long Beach home.”
As part of today’s announcement, Penske Entertainment and the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach released a special video, narrated by former Indy 500 Honorary Starter and acclaimed actor Milo Ventimiglia. You can watch here.
GURNEY, PARNELLI, SHELBY GOING INTO LIONS AUTOMOBILIA HALL OF FAME THIS THURSDAY
Join the Lions Automobilia Foundation Board of Directors and founder Rick Lorenzen as they introduce the third annual class of Lions Automobilia Foundation Hall of Fame inductees on Thursday, November 14, 2024. The Hall of Fame awards dinner and silent auction fundraiser at the Lions Automobilia Foundation in Rancho Dominguez, California will honor the following eight individuals who have made a major impact on motorsports: JC Agajanian, Jack Chrisman, Steve Gibbs, Dan Gurney, Parnelli Jones, Wally Parks, Carroll Shelby, and Bill Stroppe.
The evening will include a delicious sit-down dinner along with a presentation to each of the recipients by the emcee, NHRA Funny Car driver, Jack Beckman. The silent auction will include a variety of unique and highly desirable items with proceeds benefitting the Lions Automobilia Foundation Youth Engagement and Career Path programs. These programs are designed to engage students and young adults by showcasing the history of motorsports and Southern California car culture along with hands-on workshops held at Lions Automobilia Foundation.
Guests will be able to enjoy the Lions Automobilia Foundation Museum, from the eclectic collection of vintage race cars, muscle cars and hot rods to the city streets within the museum walls and the re-creation of the Lions Drag Strip. The evening begins with a cocktail mixer in the Long Beach Grand Prix Paddock Club followed by dinner and presentation of the Legends of Lions Award Ceremony.
Proceeds from this event and silent auction go to support the Lions Automobilia Foundation Youth Engagement and Career Path Programs. Geared to engage students and young adults by unveiling the history of motorsports and car culture in Southern California and assist them in discovering the craftsmanship and passion invested in vehicle restoration, maintenance, and design.
The city streets within the museum walls will take you back to a simpler time and as you enter the Lions Drag Strip exhibit, you’ll be looking right at the starting line with cars in the staging lanes. Guests are encouraged to explore the museum galleries, participate in the Silent Auction, and enjoy a cocktail mixer in the Long Beach Grand Prix Paddock Club followed by a delicious, seated dinner and presentation of the Legends of Lions Award Ceremony.
Attire: Semi Formal
Location: Lions Automobilia Foundation & Museum
2790 E Del Amo Blvd, East Compton, CA
Evening Schedule
4:450m Nitro Start Up
5:00pm Cocktail Mixer & Silent Auction Benefiting the Lions Youth Engagement and Career Path Program
6:00pm Welcome and Opening Ceremony
7:00 pm Dinner Served
7:45 pm Awards Ceremony
JOEY LAGANO TAKES NASCAR CUP TITLE FOR TEAM PENSKE
Roger Penske’s stock car team put an exclamation point on the 2024 racing season at Phoenix Raceway Sunday, when Joey Lagano nipped his Penske stablemate and defending champion Ryan Blaney for the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series Championship. It was Lagano’s third title driving for The Captain, becoming one of only 10 drivers in NASCAR history to win at least three championships.
Last month, Porsche Penske Motorsports wrapped up both the IMSA Weather Tech Sports Car GTP team and driver’s championships at Petit Lemans in Porsche 963s, while also clinching the IMSA Michelin Endurance Cup manufacturer’s title for Porsche.
In May, Team Penske claimed its 20th Indianapolis 500 victory with Josef Newgarden defending his title from 2023. Porsche Penske Motorsport also won the 62nd edition of the Daytona 24 in January.
All in all, a robust 2024 for the Mooresville, NC, operation.
AMOS JOHNSON’S “BE FIRST” NOW AVAILABLE
Be First: Being The First To Do Anything Gives You An Enormous Advantage, And You Never Forget Your First is the lesson racing legend Amos N. Johnson lays out in this autobiographical journey through an incredible career as he shares personal stories from his time as a pioneering driver in the world of motorsports.
From carving out his place in history by winning the Touring Under class in the first-ever IMSA GT race in 1971 at Virginia International Raceway, to competing in iconic races like the Daytona 24-hour and the 12 Hours of Sebring, Johnson’s story is one of grit, passion, and an unrelenting drive to be first.
As a member of the prestigious Road Racing Drivers Club (RRDC) and a veteran of racing’s golden era, Johnson’s impact on motorsport goes beyond his wins on the track. He played a crucial role behind the scenes as IMSA’s Competition and Technical Director, shaping the rules for the World Sports Car class. He also led American Motors’ unforgettable assault on the Nürburgring 24-Hour race and earned his place in the American Motors Racing Hall of Fame.
This memoir not only captures the thrilling races and groundbreaking achievements but also offers insights into the dedication it takes to make history. Whether you’re a motorsports enthusiast or simply a fan of remarkable life stories, Be First is an inspiring tribute to pushing boundaries and living life in the fast lane.
DAYTONA ANNUAL DINNER MEETING – SAVE THE DATE
As has become tradition, the RRDC will hold its Annual Members’ Dinner at the Daytona 500 Club in the infield of the Daytona International Speedway on January 22, the Wednesday prior to the running of the 2025 Rolex 24 at Daytona. More details to follow.
BOB RILEY: 1931 – 2024
Bob Riley, a celebrated engineer, chassis designer and race car builder who left a permanent mark on motorsports and the automotive industry, died of a heart attack at age 93 after a brief hospitalization following a fall in his home.
Most recently, the Riley was inducted into the Formula Vee Hall of Fame on Tuesday, Oct 1, during the SCCA National Championship Runoffs at Road America. RRDC President Bobby Rahal presented the award, stating, “Bob Riley is a wonderful man… When I first met Bob, I felt really stupid because I thought I knew a lot. I realized talking to Bob I didn’t know much at all. He’s a class act. He is super-talented and probably under-rated in many respects.”
This week, Rahal had these additional thoughts: “All of us at the Road Racing Drivers Club are saddened by Bob Riley’s passing.
“I knew Bob Riley. He was not just a creative, practical engineer/designer but a humble, energetic gentleman. I was fortunate to work with him in 1983-84 on the Ford Mustang project.
“A victory in its first race clearly showed its capabilities, but engine unreliability hampered our efforts in virtually every race. Despite this, there was no question the car handled beautifully and therefore such a shame that Bob’s car never achieved the success he deserved.
“I saw Bob at Road Atlanta two weeks ago. As always, he was in good spirits, and we spoke. Motorsport is the poorer with Bob’s passing.
“RIP my friend. You will be missed.”
Earlier this year, Riley was inducted into the IMSA’s Hall of Fame. In 2022, he received the prestigious Phil Hill Award from the Road Racing Drivers Club. Even as he advanced in age, Riley continued his work after retirement at Riley Technologies, the company he founded in 2006 with his son and co-owner, Bill, that released a Ford 1967 Le Mans winner continuation supercar, the Kar-Kraft Mk IV, just this year.
A genius in race car design, Riley contributed to several legendary racing wins at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the Indianapolis 500, the Sebring 12-Hour and the Rolex 24 at Daytona over the course of five decades. He was a key contributor in the Le Mans-winning Ford GT Mk IV program and had a hand in building many other high-performance vehicles such as the Ford Mustang GTP, Coyote Indy car, Intrepid RM-1, and the Mk XI Daytona Prototype. In total, Riley carried over 70 car designs under his belt, including the dirt track racers that he built as a teenager. During his storied career, his innovative race car designs won championships in IndyCar, IMSA, the Grand-Am and the Trans-Am.
Tara Hurlin posted an obituary for Riley in Hemmings, detailing his incredible career, one of many remembrances including Autosport and Vintage Motorsport.
SAFEisFAST LEGENDS: JACKIE STEWART’S ADVICE TO YOUNG DRIVERS
Fellow racers, The latest instalment of our RRDC Legends series features the wisdom of three-time Formula 1 World Champion Sir Jackie Stewart.
In this video, we sat down with Sir Jackie who offered his thoughts on what qualities a young driver needs to be successful in motorsport.
He emphasizes the importance of mind management and mental discipline, skills he learned from his other career as a champion clay pigeon shooter.
Bobby Rahal
SAFEisFAST.com
AUGIE PABST – 1934-2024
Augie Pabst, Jr., who raced in the golden years of American sportscar racing’s late 1950s and early ‘60s, passed away Oct. 9 at age 90. He often teamed with close friends – Harry Heuer, Bill Wuesthoff and Don Devine; at other times with legends of the sport – Walt Hansgen and Roger Penske.
A testimony to Pabst’s skill and proficiency behind the wheel is his being contracted to drive for Briggs Cunningham, Carroll Shelby, John Wyer, Luigi Chinetti’s NART-Ferrari and John Mecom.
Pabst is a member of Motorsports Hall of Fame of America and the Sports Car Club of America Hall of Fame. His autobiography “Augie Pabst – Behind the Wheel” is a must read for any student of early American road racing. An early inductee into the Road Racing Drivers Club, Pabst received the Bob Akin Award in 2010.
Pabst is survived by his wife, Joanie, his four children, five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. His son Augie Pabst III is also a member of the RRDC, and he had these reflections of his father:
”I’m extremely grateful to have been his son. He taught me so much, he loved me so much more than most fathers would ever express, especially to their sons. He was fun, extremely generous – sometimes to a fault, and hung his hat on his honesty and integrity. Living next door, my children bonded with he and my mother unlike any grandparent/grandchild relationship I’ve ever seen. I’m so thankful we were able to get him home from the hospital, prior to his death. He died with a view of the lake on a gorgeous fall day with family and a few friends holding his hands and loving him, literally to death. It honestly was so painful, but more beautiful than I could ever have imagined. Sorry to elaborate so much, but I’m having a moment of reflection, and I wanted to share it with you.”
Mark Vaugh wrote a comprehensive obituary for Pabst in Autoweek.
DON KNOWLES’ WIFE BECKY PASSES
It with great sadness that we report that Rebecca “Becky” Knowles, wife of Don Knowles, passed away Oct. 8 at age 78 at their home in Pittsboro, N.C. due to 
complications from Alzheimer’s disease. Don said that she passed quietly and with no pain. They had been married for 56 years and had a daughter Sarah, son Jamie and four grandchildren. A more detailed obituary is posted on the Walker Funeral Home website.
In lieu of a funeral, the Knowles family will host a gathering, and more details will be shared in the future. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Duke Dementia Family Support Program at DukeFamilySupport.org, and to UNC Hospice at uncmedicalcenter.org/hospice.
SAM POSEY DRIVE TOWARD A CURE DAY AT LIME ROCK
You are invited to Lime Rock Park, Thursday, Oct. 10 as “Drive Toward a Cure” celebrates Sam Posey – motorsports legend and champion of Parkinson’s disease – at Sam’s home track. For those wanting to make a day of it, join us at a private collection in NJ followed by a convoy to the track. You can even extend the fun by joining Drive Toward a Cure for dinner and even an overnight stay at the nearby Litchfield Inn.
Register at drivetowardacure.org/day/sam2024.
ROCKY MORAN: 1950-2024
Rocky Moran passed away this week from cancer. He was 74. Moran was a versatile race driver, equally at home in a sports car on road courses and in an IndyCar at the Brickyard. He drove for Dan Gurney and A.J. Foyt, Jr. After retirement, he had been an active participant in the career of his son, Rocky, Jr. Racer.com posted an interesting and thorough biographical sketch of the man. Our heartfelt condolences to out to his family – wife Kayla, daughter Kelly, sons Rocky Jr. and Cody, and seven grandchildren.
BOB RILEY TO BE INDUCTED INTO THE FORMULA VEE HALL OF FAME
Bob Riley will be inducted into the Formula Vee Hall of Fame in ceremonies set for Tuesday, Oct 1, during the SCCA National Championship Runoffs at Road America. Joining Riley in this year’s Hall of Fame class is Jonathan Weisheit, a true veteran and advocate of Formula Vee.
Bob Riley, the visionary engineer behind the iconic Lynx Formula Vee, played a pivotal role in the development of this highly successful car. First introduced in the 1960s, the Lynx went on to dominate the Formula Vee class, capturing four SCCA National Championships and solidifying its place as a benchmark of engineering excellence. Riley’s innovative designs and commitment to performance have made him a revered figure in the racing world, with his influence continuing to shape the sport to this day.
“Bob Riley and Jonathan Weisheit have each left an indelible mark on Formula Vee racing,” said Graham Loughead, founder of the Formula Vee Hall of Fame. “Riley’s engineering and technological innovations changed the course of the sport.”
Here is Bob’s recollection of building the first Lynx from the Lynx Formula Vee History website:
“The first Lynx Formula Vee was built in a single car garage with a dirt floor in Detroit Michigan in 1964. The only fabricating tools I had at that time were an Oxygen-Acetylene torch, electric hand drill, handheld saber saw, and a hack saw with a good supply of blades. The steel tubing for the frame was hand bent by packing the tube with sand and using the torch. We made a body buck using plywood and foam. Female fiber glass molds were made from this buck. The body was three layers of ten-ounce fiberglass cloth using polyester resin.
“John Mills and I worked at Ford in advance engineering. We became friends and eventually partners building Lynx cars. We decided that to be able to afford to go racing, we would need to sell the car to other enthusiasts. John used his experience working with ad agencies in Detroit to create the Lynx brochures. We ran an ad in Road and Track Magazine offering Formula Vee kits. To our complete surprise, we got as many as 10 inquiries a day! Later, we moved to a small building where we fabricated, assembled, and sold FVs, and SFVs ready to race. Also purchased a dynamometer where we developed and sold engines for our cars. We probably sold about 50 cars.
“Because I was very busy designing other race cars, I did not have proper time to spend at Lynx, so I sold my interest to John. Later, Ford Motor Company bought the name Lynx from John. Thus ended the Lynx formula cars.” – Bob Riley
NEW SAFEisFAST VIDEO: HANDLING THE MEDIA
Fellow racers, At some point you will have a terrible race and have to face the media. How do you handle this?
In our latest video, one of the most respected journalists in motorsport, RACER’s Marshall Pruett, gives his top tips for drivers when handling media duties.
He is joined by a roster of champion drivers – Alexander Rossi, Pato O’Ward, Scott Dixon, Scott McLaughlin, Marcus Ericsson, Laurens Vanthoor and Jordan Taylor – who all understand that the modern racer must be as good in front of the camera as they are behind the wheel.
Bobby Rahal
SAFEisFAST.com
ZAK BROWN RECEIVES THE IMRRC CAMERON R. ARGETSINGER AWARD
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ZAK BROWN’S OPEN LETTER TO INDYCAR
Zak Brown, CEO of McLaren Racing, has sent an open letter to IndyCar, laying out his vision of ways to enhance the series’ visibility, marketing, team strengthening and technical advancement. This treatise is both thoughtful and thorough and will provide much grist for the post-season mill. It’s a good read.
ADRIAN NEWEY JOINS ASTON-MARTIN
In a not totally unexpected move, Adrian Newey has signed with Aston-Martin as managing technical partner. His package is reportedly worth £30m a year and includes a shareholder’s position. It’s no wonder that Lawrence Stroll, owner and chairperson of Aston-Martin, opened the coffers to sign the man considered the preeminent designer in motorsports history.
Newey stands with AMR owner Lawrence Stroll, the pair flanked by team drivers Fernando Alonso (L) and Lance Stroll. [AMR image]
It will be yet another clean sheet of paper for the man who already stands at the head of the class of great race car designers – the likes of Colin Chapman, Gordon Murray and John Barnhard.
NOSTALGIA: McCLUGGAGE AT SEBRING, 1961
The 12 Hours of Sebring in 1961 was won by Phil Hill and Oliver Gendebien in a Ferrari 250 TRI/61. As you might expect, a number of RRDC notables did quite well that March 25th over the 5.2 miles of mostly concrete runways, taxiways and hardstand.
Some well-placed members included Richie Ginther 2nd O/A; Bob Holbert and Roger Penske 5th O/A, 1st in S1.6; Jim Hall and George Constantine, 6th O/A, 1st in S2.5; Don Sesslar, 7th O/A, 2nd in S1.6; Ludwig Heimrath, 9th O/A, 3rd in S1.6; and Denise McCluggage, 10th O/A, 1st in GT3.0.
A happy McCluggage [Bernard Cahier image]
SAFEisFAST LEGENDS SERIES: DAVID DONOHUE RECALLS CLOSEST EVER DAYTONA 24 FINISH
Fellow racers, I’m very excited to present to you the second instalment of our RRDC Legends series, where our members share stories from their careers and offer their guidance to young drivers today.
In this video, David Donohue recalls the closest ever Daytona 24 Hours finish in 2009 – when David beat a chasing Juan Pablo Montoya by just 0.167 seconds, emulating his father’s iconic victory 40 years prior.
Bobby Rahal
SAFEisFAST.com