Long known for his car-oriented European tours, event organizer Steve Austin has introduced a special, new tour this year, “The Targa Florio Re-Visited.” Austin explains that this great Sicilian road race, once second only to Le Mans, is something of legend. “We are losing our drivers to time, and I wanted to make people aware of this epic event before, quite frankly, it’s too late.” By enlisting the help of the original race organizers, the Targa museum and the various Sicilian villages, Austin has been able to produce a trip that he feels is a tribute to the race, the drivers and the machines. From the group’s base at the Acacia resort, the tour will visit the circuit and surrounding villages by private coach, with a narrative provided by several noted race drivers. “The Targa museum is honoring Brian Redman with a massive mosaic of his 1970-winning Porsche. We have a reception at the museum and are expecting a good turnout of drivers. We also have a special ‘Sicilian’ town square lunch to celebrate Nino Vacarella on his 80th birthday.”
Austin has even gone so far as to arrange for a reunion at the small hospital where both Brian Redman and Alain DeCadenet were cared for after both had terrible accidents. Austin said it is very typical of how the Sicilians still revere this race and its drivers. Just a mention of the visit brought out the town council to insist on preparing a special event. Ever aware of how important the small details are, Austin has also arranged a “cooking class” for anyone interested, plus a visit to Palermo with a gourmet dinner at the residence of one of the oldest families in Sicily. Capping off this exclusive program, tour accommodations will be at the famous Mediterranean Acacia resort. Smiling, Austin added, “It might be difficult to get some people away from the resort.” The trip is being co-hosted by Brian Redman and Alain DeCadenet, and Austin is in the process of rounding up a number of drivers who will be special guests during the week. For more information visit www.steveaustingreatvacations.com or give him a call at 1-800-452-8434.
Become a Member & Get Ad-Free Access To This Article (& About 6,000+ More)
Access to the full article is limited to paid subscribers only. Our membership removes most ads, lets you enjoy unlimited access to all our premium content, and offers you awesome discounts on partner products. Enjoy our premium content.