Report and photos by Rich Martin
The Vintage Sports Car Club of America (VSCCA) made its 3rd annual visit to New Jersey Motorsports Park in Millville, New Jersey on May 21-23, 2010 for the newly renamed New Jersey Vintage Grand Prix. A field of more than 80 cars in six categories competed on the fast Thunderbolt Circuit at New Jersey Motorsports Park, with overcast and occasionally damp weather conditions.
Friday evening a group of race cars was displayed in downtown Millville much to the delight of the local residents, and a classic car show also took place. This event seems to be growing and there were lots of things for the spectators to do and see over the weekend including monster truck rides on the infield, radio controlled cars on a road circuit, live bands, a classic car show, a display of Corvettes from the solid axle Corvette club and motorcycle parade laps for the benefit of war veterans. These were all popular attractions.
The cars hit the track on Saturday for practice runs and qualifying races. The Pre-War cars were a big hit with the crowd, 13 cars including a 1912 Mercedes, three Alfa Romeos including one that had been driven by the great Juan Manuel Fangio, several specials and an unrestored 1931 Bugatti T-37 had the cameras working overtime! The interesting race was won by Peter Greenfield in the ex-Fangio Alfa Romeo 8C 35.
Cars in the under 2 Liter made up the next group including Triumph, MG, Porsche, Alfa Romeo, Sunbeam, Crosley, and Turner. Some cars were polished enough to look like they were entering a Concours event rather then the racetrack! Sunday’s race was won by Bill Schmidt in a 1959 MGA.
The next group was the over 2 liter group and there was a spirited battle between the 1960 Aston Martin DB4 GT of Jack Boxtrom and the 1956 Austin-Healey 100/4 of Richard Maloumian. It was a lot of fun watching these two guys sliding their cars through the turns and the crowd was most appreciative.
The newer under 2 liter category features cars from 1960 to the early 70’s, with cars from Volvo, Datsun, Triumph, Alfa Romeo, Lotus, Cooper, MG, and Saab contesting this category.
In the newer over 2 liter category there was several fast Porsches including a 930 and a Grand Am GT. It was an interesting mixed category that was very entertaining to watch. Sundays race was won by Chris Morici in a 1970 Lotus 69, followed home by Mike Kaleel in a 1964 Lotus 23.
The VSCCA is looking at this race as a long term event involving both the racetrack and town. We all hope the event continues to grow and succeed!
VSCCA New Jersey Vintage Grand Prix 2010 – Photo Gallery
[Source: Rich Martin]
