Mario Andretti was presented with the first annual Spirit of Competition Award at dedication ceremonies for the Simeone Foundation Automotive Museum in Philadelphia on November 12. The dedication ceremony was presided over by Philadelphia mayor Michael Nutter, and Andretti’s award was presented by former Philadelphia Eagles head coach Dick Vermeil, whose father once raced sprint cars in Northern California.
Initially opened to the public last June, the Simeone Museum is home for more than 60 significant racing sports cars, with the collection’s central theme being “the spirit of competition.” Andretti was a natural recipient of the first award because not only does that theme typify his career, but he also lives in nearby Nazareth.
The award carries a replica of Andretti’s boyhood hero Alberto Ascari’s competition driving license. “No other driver represents the spirit of competition better than Mario,” said Dr. Fred Simeone, executive director of the museum. “He told me he never started a race he didn’t feel he would win.”
For further information about the Simeone Foundation Automotive Museum, visit www.simeonmuseum.com.
