Well-known vintage racing enthusiast and patron Ford Heacock III was suitably honored with the VIR Gold Cup at the annual Black & White dinner during Virginia International Raceway’s Heacock Gold Cup historic race weekend in early June. The award was presented “in the vintage spirit to someone who embodies performance, passion, camaraderie and contribution to the sport.”
Heacock, a Sebring native, has been involved in the races there from the very beginning, as his grandfather was chairman of the first Sebring 12-hour race. He founded SVRA in 1980 and established Vintage Motorsport magazine in 1982, all while raising a family, racing for a decade himself, and running his classic car insurance company, Heacock Classic.
“I am absolutely speechless,” said Heacock. “This was completely unexpected and I am so flattered. I thank you from my heart and hope that this event becomes the signature event on the East Coast for vintage racing.”
The first Gold Cup was awarded to Carroll Shelby at the track’s 50th reunion year of 1957. Also honored at the dinner was Richmond bank executive David Fairchild, who was presented the Spirit Award as an amateur racer who embodies the vintage spirit.
