by Bernard Martin

I had been reaching out to Bill Warner for nearly a decade to visit us at the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix.  It wasn't until he passed the torch of the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance to Hagerty that he could find the time.  So, it was really an honor to invite him to be the Grand Marshal for the 2024 Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix (PVGP) and recognize his incredibl contribution to automotive history. Bill Warner brings a wealth of experience, knowledge, and a contagious enthusiasm for all things automotive. His candor and humorous stories speak for themselves, as you'll see in the video below.

Not many know that Bill Warner was born in Pittsburgh in 1943 but spent his life in Jacksonville, Florida. Bill's journey from Jacksonville to motorsports photography, then racing, and to the founding of the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance, one of the most prestigious automotive events in the world, reflects a lifetime devoted to the art and history of motoring.

In my interview with Bill from the 2024 PVGP, he shares stories about, among many other things, the origin story of the event and his even delves into his favorite cars ever displayed at the Amelia Island Concours, offering viewers a rare glimpse into his own personal insights and tastes. Bill’s passion shines through as he emphasizes that a Concours is ultimately about the people—not just the famous attendees, but also the volunteers and the camaraderie they create.

A standout moment occurs when he shares his impression of modern electric vehicles with 'piped-in' sound effects, just as the open-wheel formula cars begin their opening lap on the PVGP racecourse—an impeccable coincidence that we could not have timed better, even if we had planned it.

The Backstory on Kip Wasenko
During the interview, Bill acknowledges Kip Wasenko in the audience. I suppose I should provide a bit more backstory that you won't get in the video. For those who don't know, it's been said that Cadillac’s styling was stuck in a rut until GM put Kip in charge of a new two door concept car, and it was Kip who brought Cadillac back to its roots to embrace its racing heritage.

"Kip is credited with several significant designs. These include the Buick Wildcat Mid-Engine PPG Indy Series Pace Car, the Two-Rotor Mid-Engine Corvette Concept Car where he received his first Design Patent, and many Indy 500 and Daytona 500 Pace Cars. Kip was Cadillac's Chief Designer and is best known for the Design of the Cadillac EVOQ that was named “Best Concept Car at the 1999 North American International Auto Show."  This design initiated the Art & Science Design Direction which was recognized as a Design Renaissance for Cadillac. The EVOQ was sold to the public as the Cadillac XLR and XLR-V two seater performance sports car Kip felt Cadillac needed.

Kip applied the same Design Philosophy to the CTS-V, STS-V and the Cadillac LMP Race Car, developed with Riley & Scott, that raced LeMans. In addition, he designed the winning CTS-VR World Challenge Cadillac Race Cars by Pratt Miller. These race cars and the technology learned from Cadillac’s Racing Programs have contributed to the success of the world respected Cadillac V-Series Performance Cars. In February 2005, Motor Trend magazine recognized Kip’s contribution on their Power List, Kip continues on the track racing today!" (www.allantexlrinvitational.com)

The Backstory on Luigi Chinetti Jr.
During the interview, Bill and I look to Luigi Chinetti Jr., who's literally in the front row of the audience, to answer question about Ferraris. Bill playfully asks, "Would you prefer a short wheelbase Ferrari Berlinetta or a GTO?" The answer is in the video below, but to appreciate the significance of this exchange, it's really important to understand the Chinetti legacy.

Luigi Chinetti Sr., born in 1901 in Italy, was a pivotal figure in Ferrari's history. A skilled mechanic and racer, he won the 24 Hours of Le Mans three times, including Ferrari's first victory in 1949, where he drove nearly 23 hours himself. He got stuck being in the United States at the outbreak of WWII and became a US citizen which resulted in Chinetti becoming Ferrari's first dealer in North America, establishing the brand's dealer network on the continent. In 1958, he founded the North American Racing Team (NART), which played a crucial role in promoting Ferrari in American motorsport.

Luigi Chinetti Jr. followed in his father's footsteps, becoming a prominent figure in the Ferrari world and a talented racing driver. He began his racing career in the late 1960s, participating in events like the 24 Hours of Daytona and the 12 Hours of Sebring. His deep knowledge of Ferrari and his contributions to the brand's legacy are well-recognized.

The Chinetti family's connection to the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix (PVGP) and the Cortile is also significant. In 2023, Luigi Chinetti Jr. was honored as the Grand Marshal of the PVGP, highlighting the family's enduring influence in the automotive world. Their legacy continues to inspire enthusiasts and participants at events like the PVGP Cortile, celebrating Italian automotive excellence.

This interaction between Bill and Luigi really underscores the deep connections and rich history within the motorsports and automotive community that is a thread throughout our entire conversation.  In fact, this interchange led to a complete change in my "interview" later at the Cortile Lunchean when I just let these two share the floor. It's Hope and Crosby on stage! LOL.

A Memorable Conclusion
One of Bill's favorite memories that he shares in the video involves John Surtees, the legendary racer who remains the "only person to win World Championships on both two and four wheels." Albiet, I think Nuvolari should be mentioned, with an asterisk, every time this quote is used, hence why I'm using it as a quote.

Anyway, Surtees brought his iconic 1956 MV Agusta 500 to the 2001 Amelia Island Concours, where he was being honored, and the bike won an award. Bill recalls how, as he was calling out Surtees as the award winner,  Surtees didnt appear and Bill initially was told he had left the event before being really surprised by his grand entrance to accept the award. You'll need to watch the video to appreciate Bill telling it.  This serendipitous moment about awards couldn’t have been scripted and literally led seamlessly into our PVGP presentation of a special award to Bill from the my friend Paul Pigman from Amalgam. Watching Bill’s reaction as he received the award was truly touching; his genuine grateful emotion and surprise brought a truly poignant and heartfelt close to the interview.

Watch the Full Interview
Don’t miss this exclusive opportunity to hear Bill Warner’s stories and insights. From his favorite cars to his reflections on the people who make events like the PVGP and Amelia Island Concours so special, this video is a really a must-watch for automotive enthusiasts.

By Bernard Martin

PITTSBURGH, PA. - In the heart of Pittsburgh, the annual Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix (PVGP) is set to captivate automotive enthusiasts and anime fans alike with its Asian Car Show, a vibrant component of the larger "The Vintage" celebration.

​Scheduled to take place at Schenley Park on August 3-4, this year’s exhibition is eagerly anticipated to be a standout event, showcasing an eclectic mix of Japanese Kei Vehicles and anime-inspired cars in collaboration with the Pittsburgh Kyūsha and Senpai Party.
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by Bernard Martin

The 2024 Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix, renowned as the largest motorsports festival in North America, celebrates automotive heritage and racing excellence. As the perfect platform for the official debut of the INEOS Grenadier, attendees can anticipate an exclusive first look at this groundbreaking vehicle during the opening festivities on Saturday morning, August 3.

RDS Automotive Group, delighted to welcome the INEOS Grenadier to its esteemed group of automotive brands showcased at the PVGP, adds another dimension to the event's portfolio. Show sponsors such as Ferrari Philadelphia and McLaren Philadelphia contribute to the diverse array of brands on display.

For more information about the INEOS Grenadier and itsdebut at the 2024 Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix, please visit www.pvgp.org.

About Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix
The Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix Association is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to hosting a world-class vintage automotive festival for charity. Spanning 10 days with two race weekends, car shows, parties, motorbikes, and galas, the PVGP is the nation's largest motorsport festival.

Highlighted by "The Vintage," the longest-running vintage race on city streets in North America, surrounded by 17 individual car shows segmented by country and marque, the PVGP's 2024 Race Week runs from July 25th through August 4th.

​Culminating with the 42nd annual vintage races and car shows at Schenley Park on the weekend of August 3/4, the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix Association has raised over $6 million for Autism-Pittsburgh and Merakey Allegheny Valley School since its founding in 1983, contributing to autistic and intellectual and developmental disabilities charities.

by Bernard Martin

Founded by Jeff Lane, the Lane Motor Museum's roots trace back to his childhood fascination with cars, inspired by his father Gene's love for MGs. ​

By Bernard Martin

The Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix (#PVGP) is thrilled to announce the theme for the 2024 Proiettore Macchina at the Cortile Italian Car Show: AUTOVETTURE PICCOLE. Translating to "small cars" in Italian, this theme celebrates the charm and innovation found in compact Italian automobiles.
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The PVGP Cortile invites enthusiasts to delve into the allure and craftsmanship of small Italian cars that have left an indelible mark on automotive design.
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From iconic microcars to stylish compact models, this theme promises to showcase the diversity and ingenuity of Italian automotive engineering.

Every year, the Cortile selects a marque or model to spotlight for the annual event based on factors such as historical significance, unique local interest, and brand resurgence. Autovetture Piccole is the theme chosen for our 2024 Proiettore Macchina! Mark your calendars for August 3-4, 2024, at Schenley Park!

Below is a list of cars that we want to invite to our 2024 event.  Did we miss anyone?  Let us know in the comments! ABARTH

• Abarth 500: A high-performance version of the Fiat 500, the Abarth 500, features sportier design cues, a more powerful engine, and improved handling.

ALFA ROMEO

• Alfa Romeo 33: Produced from 1983 to 1995, the Alfa Romeo 33 was a small family car available in various body styles, including hatchback and wagon.
• Alfa Romeo Alfasud: Produced from 1971 to 1989, the Alfasud was a compact family car known for its innovative engineering and front-wheel-drive layout.
• Alfa Romeo Giulietta: Produced from 1954 to 1965, the Alfa Romeo Giulietta was a compact family car available in sedan, coupe, and convertible variants.
• Alfa Romeo MiTo: The Alfa Romeo MiTo was a compact three-door hatchback produced from 2008 to 2018. It was known for its sporty design and agile handling.

AUTOBIANCHI

• Autobianchi A112: The Autobianchi A112 was a supermini produced by the Italian manufacturer Autobianchi (a subsidiary of Fiat) from 1969 to 1986.
• Autobianchi Bianchina: Produced by Autobianchi, a subsidiary of Fiat, from 1957 to 1970, the Bianchina was a small city car available in various body styles, including coupe, sedan, and convertible.​

FIAT

• Fiat 126: Produced by Fiat from 1972 to 2000, the Fiat 126 was a successor to the original Fiat 500. It was a small city car designed for urban commuting.
• Fiat 127: Produced from 1971 to 1983, the Fiat 127 was a popular supermini available in various body styles.
• Fiat 128: Produced from 1969 to 1985, the Fiat 128 was a compact front-wheel-drive car available in different body styles, including sedan, coupe, and station wagon.
• Fiat 500 Topolino: Produced from 1936 to 1955, the Fiat Topolino, also known as the Fiat 500, was one of the most iconic tiny cars of its time.
• Fiat 600: Produced from 1955 to 1969, the Fiat 600 was a popular rear-engined city car known for its compact size and practicality.
• Fiat 850: Produced from 1964 to 1973, the Fiat 850 was a small rear-engined car available in different body styles, including sedan, coupe, and spider.
• Fiat Panda: The Fiat Panda is a practical and versatile city car that has been in production since 1980. It comes in various iterations and is well-regarded for its compact size and fuel efficiency.

INNOCENTI

• Innocenti Mini: Produced under license from British Leyland, the Innocenti Mini was made in Italy from 1965 to 1975 and offered a more luxurious version of the classic Mini design.

LANCIA

• Lancia Appia: Produced from 1953 to 1963, the Lancia Appia was a small family car offered in various body styles, including sedan, coupe, and wagon.
• Lancia Y10 (Lancia Ypsilon): Produced from 1985 to 1995, the Lancia Y10, also known as the Lancia Ypsilon, was a small 5-door hatchback with a distinct and quirky design.
• Lancia Ypsilon: Lancia, a brand owned by the Fiat Chrysler Automobiles group, produced the Ypsilon, a stylish and compact 5-door hatchback that has been in production since 1995.

The Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix is a 10 day motorsports festival that is celebrating its 41st year in 2023.  Although there are things to do and see throughout the entire 10 day celebration, Panoz Club members will be participating in the following events.
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PITTSBURGH, PA (December, 2020) Like many large-scale events this year, the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix was affected by the pandemic. Ten days of car shows, races and motorsport parties were canceled, but that didn’t stop the Grand Prix from delivering a meaningful donation for our charitable partners.
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This past May, the PVGP announced it was canceling its 2020 Race Week events and “Shifting Gears” to encourage its car club partners to get out on the road in the safety of their own cars. The result – more than two dozen events were held throughout the summer and fall, raising $60,000!

We applaud our racers, volunteers, car club partners and event participants who got involved and made incredible efforts to keep the Grand Prix spirit alive. From staging events to donating their 2020 registration fees, the response was overwhelming and vital to our charity mission.” said Dan DelBianco, PVGP executive director.

Joseph S. Martz, president of Merakey Allegheny Valley School, said, “thank you for all you did to make lemonade out of lemons, we are incredibly grateful to the PVGP and its supporters for putting your hearts and souls into the “Shifting Gears” campaign.”

Jesse Torisky, CEO of the Autism Society of Pittsburgh, exclaimed “during this pandemic autistic people haven’t stopped being autistic and they need our services now more than ever and likewise, the PVGP supporters have not stopped working – we are humbled by their tireless efforts.

Sixteen racers generously donated their 2020 race entry fees, crossing the finish line with a whopping $10,450 donation! PVGP Chairman Jim Dolan was the first racer to make a donation and said “this has been an unprecedented display of what community involvement is all about and I thank everyone”. Stu Long and the team at Nelson Ledges staged a Test & Tune in August to benefit the PVGP and added $1,150 more!

Karen Hanchett and Patrick Martin staged two Motorbike Tours to Jamison Farm in Latrobe that raised $1,200. Bud Osbourne and the Western PA Triumph Association worked on these tours and the PVGP July Countryside Tour that raised $2,030.

The Rolls Royce & Bentley Club raised a grand total of $14,080 through three separate events. Greg & Christie Farrell hosted a party at their home in June, raising $1,400. Bentley Pittsburgh hosted a car show at their dealership in Wexford in September that brought in $7,950. With an auction of her Handmade Glass Art Terri Hohmann added $3,530, and Rolls Royce Club President Chris Davis’s neighbors’ “Little Miss Cookie Squad” baked and sold cookies weekly this summer for $1,200.

The ALFISTI Alfa Romeo Club pledged $1,000 from its July Over the River Tour. West Penn Miata Club raised $800 with its own kick-off style Rallye. Jack and Cathy Dernorsek led the 3 Rivers Region Model A Restorers Club on a Red Belt Tour in August that brought in $465.
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Land Rover North Hills sponsored the October 24/25 Fall Car Show at Pitt Race Complex that raised $2,100 the same weekend that the Western PA Triumph Club and Gary Fredo hosted a road tour netting $1,555. To get the PVGP over the $60,000 mark the Greater Pittsburgh MG Club donated $1,000 from its membership.

With the pandemic raging around the world and most car events cancelled for the foreseeable future many charities are being left with no fundraisers.  Concours marketing leader Bernard Martin recently stepped up to the plate to offer his services to help charities across the country.
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According to Bernie, "The conversation actually started at Amelia Island early this year. Dan DelBianco and I where sitting at the pool late Sunday afternoon and we where more or less reaching the conclusion that we may not be able to hold any. PVGP events this summer.  I suggested that we get all 17 car clubs and encourage them to drive their cars in a series of fundraising rallies. We had just completed hosting the 2019 Alfa Romeo Owners Club convention and had used the belt system around Pittsburgh for a number of the driving tours so we had a ready made tour route with signage already in place."

The Pittsbrugh Vintage Grand Prix has renamed this year theme to "Shifting Gears" as a result of that conversation.

In early Spring Lilly Pray approached Bernie about a project that she had become involved in called "Rally Across America".  Lilly has been a highly respected concours judge for many years and she was the first Ambassador for the effort. The founders of "Rally Across America",  Jim and Wendy Petty, wanted to create a website and social media for their concept of raising $1 Million for charities across the United States by helping car clubs and car aficionados host driving events for their local charities.

Bernie told Lilly that this project was right in his wheelhouse as he was already planning events for the Three Rivers Alfisti to raise money for the PVGP.  

Bernie created the website and social media for the organizations and also create all of the "Rally-in-a-Box" tools needed to ambassadors to create their own driving event.  He tested a number of auto touring and rally apps for mobile devices and included the functions for the Rally Ambassadors. 

The Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix (PVGP) and its presenting sponsor, the Greater Pittsburgh Automobile Dealers Association, (GPADA) presented a record $410,000 check to the PVGP Charities.

The presentation took place on Thursday, February 14, 2019 at the “Dancing with the Cars” party – the opening preview of the Pittsburgh International Auto Show at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center.

The check represents the funds raised by the PVGP throughout 2018, combined with the proceeds from the GPADA’s Dancing with the Cars party that night.

“This was the 7th time in the last 8 years that we were able to set a new record for fundraising and the 11th time in the last 14 years.” said Dan DelBianco, Executive Director of the PVGP “we are proud of our growing success and we are so appreciative that the GPADA’s Foundation holds this event and donates the proceeds to our charity partners.

John Putzier, CEO of the GPADA said “our partnership with the PVGP has turned out to be a win-win-win for the GPADA’s Foundation, the PVGP and for the charities. Together we can do so much good by combining the two biggest automotive events in Western PA to generate funds for autism and those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.”

2015 Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix Interview with Bernard Martin, Managing Partner "The Cortile."  Interviewer: Ted Sohier  Camera Operator/Editor: Justin Mackey