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by Bernard Martin  Luigi Chinetti Jr. has a unique perspective on Ferrari’s history, shaped by his family’s deep-rooted connection to the brand. His father, Luigi Chinetti Sr., was instrumental in Ferrari’s early success in North America. Chinetti Sr. began his career as a machinist for Nicola Romeo, where he developed expertise in precision engineering. His technical skill and passion for racing led him to join Alfa Romeo’s racing division in the 1920s, where he worked alongside Enzo Ferrari. Throughout the 1930s, Chinetti Sr. played a crucial role in Alfa Romeo’s racing efforts, preparing, racing and maintaining race cars for Ferrari’s 'Scuderia Ferrari' Alfa Romeo team. When World War II broke out, Chinetti Sr. found himself stranded in the United States, unable to return to Italy. Seizing the opportunity, he became a U.S. citizen and used his knowledge of Ferrari’s craftsmanship to introduce the brand to an American audience. Unlike war-ravaged Europe, the United States had an affluent market eager for high-performance automobiles, and Chinetti Sr. understood how to position Ferrari as a prestigious marque among American collectors and racers. The Birth of NART and Ferrari’s Expansion in North America The North American Racing Team, aka N.A.R.T., was instrumental in Ferrari’s expansion beyond Europe. Chinetti Jr. recalls that, in the early days, there was no formal Ferrari dealer network—every Ferrari built in 1946 was essentially a race car. His father, Luigi Chinetti Sr., was a key figure in bringing Ferrari to North America.  Ferrari 166MM Barchetta at the Ferrari Challenge at Watkins Glen 2024 NART was founded in 1956, partly inspired by a North American Van Lines truck that influenced the team’s name. At its core, NART sought to promote American drivers on the international racing stage, helping solidify Ferrari’s presence in North America. One of the team’s most significant moments came in 1949, when Chinetti Sr. decided to campaign a Ferrari 166MM barchetta at the 24 Hours of Le Mans—despite Ferrari’s initial reluctance. He strategically reduced the car’s horsepower to ensure its durability over the grueling endurance race, a move that ultimately paid off. The nickname barchetta, meaning 'little boat,' calls attention to the chassis's superleggera strengthening ribs, which gave the car a boat-like shape. The name was first used at the 1948 Turin Auto Show, likely applied by a journalist. In 2005, Motor Trend Classic placed the 166 MM barchetta sixth in their list of the ten "greatest Ferraris of all time." Ferrari’s Focus: Europe vs. North America Chinetti Jr. reflected on how Ferrari’s focus differed across markets. "While Ferrari prioritized single-seater race cars in Europe, NART emphasized two-seater sports cars for the American market." This distinction helped Ferrari appeal to U.S. customers and racers, and it was the sports car sales in North America that supported the single-seater racing program in Europe. Chinetti Jr.'s Critical Look at the Ferrari Film Chinetti Jr. also shared his thoughts on Ferrari (2023), a film that attempts to capture the essence of Enzo Ferrari’s life and career. While he found the Mille Miglia race sequences evocative of the era, he felt the film’s portrayal of Ferrari himself did not align with his own memories. Chinetti Jr. remarked, "No one called him Enzo. I could never imagine it. He referred to my father as 'Chinetti' and my dad called him 'Commendatore.'" Chinetti Jr. was also found the depiction of Mrs Ferrari not to be accurate according to his recollection. “Mr. Ferrari was made by Mrs. Ferrari,” Laura Ferrari played a crucial role in managing Ferrari’s business operations, particularly in financial and administrative matters. Her influence extended to key decisions within the company, ensuring its stability during difficult periods. She was known for her strong presence and unwavering support of Enzo Ferrari, often acting as the backbone of the company behind the scenes. Her deep involvement in Ferrari's management and her oversight of finances truly helped solidify the marque’s longevity. Her prominent role also indirectly contributed to one of Ferrari’s most significant internal conflicts, the "Palace Revolt" of 1961. Tensions between key engineers—most notably Carlo Chiti and Giotto Bizzarrini—and Ferrari’s leadership, including Laura Ferrari’s firm grip on company affairs, led to the mass departure of several top engineers. This shake-up ultimately resulted in the formation of ATS, Automobili Turismo e Sport, a rival firm founded by the disgruntled former Ferrari staff. That in turn led to the inception of Iso Rivolta's Grifo and the iconic BIzzarini's. The incident was a defining moment in Ferrari’s history, really demonstrating Laura Ferrari’s formidable influence in the company’s structure and decision-making. Engineering Philosophy and the Colombo Engine Chinetti Jr. also highlighted Ferrari’s engineering philosophy, recalling how certain individuals—like Gioachino Colombo, the designer of Ferrari’s early engines—operated with full creative control. “You didn’t tell Mr. Colombo how to design an intake manifold,” Chinetti Jr. noted, emphasizing the respect and autonomy given to Ferrari’s top engineers. The Ferrari Colombo engine, designed by Colombo in the late 1940s, became the backbone of Ferrari’s early road and race cars. It was a lightweight, high-revving V12 that powered some of the most iconic Ferraris, from the 166 series to the 250 GT, cementing its place in Ferrari’s engineering history. Colombo’s work laid the foundation for Ferrari’s dominance in motorsports and luxury performance vehicles. A Lasting Legacy NART’s influence on Ferrari and motorsports remains undeniable. The team not only introduced Ferrari to North America but also provided American drivers with opportunities to compete at the highest levels. Chinetti Jr.’s reflections offer a rare and personal glimpse into this critical chapter in motorsports history, bridging past triumphs with modern interpretations of Ferrari’s legacy. For those interested in Ferrari’s rich racing history and its cinematic portrayal, Chinetti Jr.’s insights serve as a compelling reminder of the people and decisions that shaped the brand’s success.
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Driven by Passion: A Journey Through Racing & Photography with PVGP Grand Marshal Bill Warner1/9/2025  Bernard Martin Interviews PVGP Grand Marshal for 2024 Bill Warner. Photo courtesy www.steverayphotography.com 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.  The Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix (PVGP) is revving up excitement with the announcement of its "Evening of Speed" scheduled for Friday, August 2, 2024. This exclusive event marks a vibrant prelude to the weekend's racing festivities, drawing together PVGP race drivers, their crews, VIPs, and a select number of ticketed guests. The PVGP Driver Reception, traditionally held at Orr's Jewelry Store on Forbes Avenue, will transition to the elegant Frick Fine Arts Building on the University of Pittsburgh campus. With limited tickets available at $85 each, this event offers a rare opportunity to mingle with racers and enthusiasts in a historic setting. The day begins at 4:00 PM with the iconic GT40 race car taking pride of place on the Frick's front lawn, highlighting the same location where the Grand Prix hosted its inaugural car show in 1984. By 4:30 PM, Flagstaff Hill's gates will open for parking, setting the stage for a 5:00 PM parade of drivers and their vintage machines. This parade will begin at the PVGP paddock, winding around the track, over the Panther Hollow Bridge, and finishing at the Frick Fine Arts Building, weaving a path past the Ragtime Racers and Vintage Indy Displays in front of Phipps Conservatory. From 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM, Phipps becomes the center for interaction, hosting a meet and greet with the Ragtime Racers and Vintage Indy participants. The Frick Fine Arts Building, a landmark since its 1965 opening and dedicated to the memory of Henry Clay Frick by his daughter Helen Clay Frick, will offer guests a chance to enjoy its art and architectural marvels, including replicas of Florentine Renaissance artworks. The event will feature a 5:30 PM interview session in the Schenley Plaza Tent with University Formula SAE team students, including Panther Racing, Carnegie Mellon Racing, and Penn State's Nittany Racing. They will discuss their cutting-edge developments in EV-powered race cars alongside noted automotive engineers and designers Kip Wasenko and Brian Willis. (more details below) The highlight of the evening, the "Legends of Schenley" Awards Presentation, is set for 6:00 PM, followed by remarks from this year's Grand Marshal, Bill Warner. A strolling dinner commences at 6:15 PM, allowing guests to relax and engage further in this unique setting. Bill Warner will captivate the audience again at 7:00 PM with his talk on "Motorsports Photography Then and Now," appealing especially to photography aficionados and social media enthusiasts. The vintage race cars will make their return to the paddock by 8:30 PM, ensuring they are securely in place before sunset. The "Evening of Speed" is more than an event; it's a celebration of automotive history, innovation, and the enduring spirit of the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix, promising an unforgettable start to "The Vintage" weekend of vintage racing and car shows at Schenley Park. Evening of Speed Itinerary
About Bill Warner Bill Warner is a distinguished figure in the automotive world, renowned for his deep-rooted passion and significant contributions to car culture. As the founder of the Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance, one of the most prestigious car shows in the United States, Warner has established himself as a prominent advocate for automotive history and preservation. His expertise extends beyond organizing elite automotive events; he is also a respected automotive photographer and journalist, whose work has graced the pages of major publications and captivated audiences worldwide. With a career spanning several decades, Warner has developed an extensive network within the automotive industry, from collectors and restorers to designers and racers. His knowledge of automotive history is profound, and his personal collection includes some of the rarest and most unique vehicles. Warner's contributions to the automotive community have been recognized with numerous awards and accolades, reflecting his influence and commitment to the celebration of automotive heritage. In 2024, Bill Warner will serve as the Grand Marshal for the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix (PVGP), an honor that acknowledges his lifelong dedication to the automotive industry. His role at the PVGP will not only highlight his storied career but also underscore his ongoing influence in shaping automotive culture and enthusiasm. Warner's presence as Grand Marshal is expected to bring a unique depth of knowledge and passion to the event, making it a memorable experience for participants and spectators alike About Kip WasenkoKip Wasneko has made a remarkable impact as the Head of Design at General Motors, especially noted for his significant achievements in revitalizing the Cadillac brand. One of his most notable contributions was leading the design team that introduced the acclaimed Cadillac V-Series, a lineup that successfully fused luxury with high performance, catering to a new era of automotive enthusiasts. This series not only enhanced Cadillac's market presence but also redefined its identity as a competitor in luxury performance vehicles. Wasneko's leadership was crucial in the development of groundbreaking design concepts that pushed the boundaries of innovation and sustainability within the automotive industry. Under his direction, the team unveiled the Cadillac Lyriq, an all-electric SUV that marked Cadillac’s ambitious step towards electrification, showcasing his commitment to forward-thinking automotive solutions. Furthermore, Wasneko played a pivotal role in Cadillac's return to racing, overseeing the design and development of the Cadillac DPi-V.R race car. This vehicle made a significant mark in endurance racing, participating in prestigious races like the 24 Hours of Daytona. This move not only highlighted Cadillac's engineering capabilities but also its resurgence as a symbol of American ingenuity and competitive spirit in the racing world. These milestones under Wasneko's guidance have not only solidified GM's standing in the global automotive industry but also reinstated Cadillac as a beacon of luxury, innovation, and performance. About Brian WillisBrian Dean Willis is a prominent figure in the automotive and aerospace engineering sectors, currently serving as the Owner, CEO, and Chief Engineer at Leap Racing in Suwanee, Georgia. His company specializes in a variety of engineering design and development tasks, including aerodynamics for sports prototypes, race car development, and the design of limited production street cars. With a background rich in high-level engineering projects, Willis has made substantial contributions across multiple disciplines, from aerospace to automotive. Before founding Leap Racing, Willis was the Vice President of Engineering at Panoz Cars, Elan Technologies, and DeltaWing Technologies Group, where he directed the engineering efforts across various divisions and spearheaded the design of an all-electric race car for the Le Mans-Garage 56 initiative. His leadership in this role was marked by his oversight of significant projects, including the design of several electric vehicles and advanced racing cars. Willis’s expertise in vehicle dynamics and aerodynamics was further honed during his tenure as Director of Technical Services at Multimatic Inc., where he was the Chief Designer for the 2016 Ford GT that won its category at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. His career also includes impactful roles in racing teams and engineering firms like Team Goh Racing, where he contributed to a Le Mans victory, and Williams Grand Prix Engineering, where he helped design a Le Mans winning LMP prototype sports racing car. With educational credentials that include Master’s degrees in Mechanical and Composites Engineering from MIT and a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering from Texas A&M University, Willis’s profound technical knowledge and innovative approach have been instrumental in driving advancements in both racing performance and vehicle design. His career is marked by a commitment to pushing the boundaries of engineering to achieve superior performance and efficiency in high-stakes environments. editors note: The planning and logisitics of this event where completed by Bernie!
by Bernard Martin www.linkedin.com/in/bernardmartin/  “At the end of 1967, things looked a little bleak. I got a call from David York who worked for John Wyer (left) at the Gulf team, and asked me if I would drive the GT40 in 1968 and 1969. Obviously, I said, ‘absolutely.’ I mean, that was my first real proper factory drive. And I had already been driving now for 10 years because I started in 1959. His rationale for asking me was, if you are good enough to drive for John Surtees, you are probably good enough to drive for us.” ~ David Hobbs This July, the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix (PVGP) will not only celebrate the 60th anniversary of the iconic Ford GT40—a car that has left an indelible mark on motorsport. Adding to the event, renowned racer and broadcaster David Hobbs will join as the Honorary Race Director and Master of Ceremonies at the GT40 reunion, set to take place from July 25-28 at the Pittsburgh International Race Complex. A Veteran Racer at the Helm David Hobbs has competed across a spectrum of motorsport disciplines including Formula 1, IndyCar, and NASCAR, to name a few.
Hobb's racing career includes competing in Formula One for BRM, Honda, and McLaren. He also achieved significant victories in other motorsports disciplines. He raced the Ford GT40 which is why he was selected as the Master of Ceremonies for this 60th Anniversary celebration. He has also campaigned in the Ferrari 512M, Porsche 917s and 956/962s. He competed in IMSA Camel GT for BMW, finished fifth in the Indy 500 for McLaren, won championships in Formula 5000 and Trans Am, and led the Daytona 500 in NASCAR. He is most closely associated with the Le Mans 24 Hours, where he raced 20 times.
 A Gathering of Auto Aficionados Under Hobbs’ stewardship, the reunion is expected to draw crowds from all corners of the automotive community. Rick Muck, Managing Director of AutoventureUSA and organizer of the GT40 Reunion, notes that the event is “a celebration of the GT40’s significant heritage and its impact on motorsports.” The involvement of companies like Superformance and Safir GT40 highlights the ongoing allure of the GT40, ensuring that its story is told through engaging narratives and shared experiences of owners and racers. More Than Just Racing
The PVGP Historics "week" is packed with activities that extend beyond the racetrack. Starting with the Kick-Off Rallye and followed by a variety of events including the Walnut Street Invitational Car Show and the Blacktie & Tailpipes Gala, the festival offers something for every car enthusiast. NEW PVGP Events added for 2024! The race week includes two new events that are just being announced for 2024, starting with the "Grand Prix Garden Party" at Phipps Conservatory & Botanical Garden and an "Evening of Speed" to be held at the Frick Fine Arts Museum on the Pitt Campus, ensuring that the celebration of automotive culture remains at full throttle throughout after the Historic races conclude at Pittsburgh International Race Complex. More detailed information with be coming soon about these new events!  #7 1932 Brightwood Airport Special B-Block Miller Sumner Red Oliver owned by Mike Lynn of Greenwood IN. Photo by Brian Hart Pittsburgh, PA – This summer, the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix (#PVGP) is set to showcase a breathtaking display of racing heritage as Vintage Indy™ returns to Schenley Park, bringing with it the thunderous echoes of the Indianapolis 500's past. In a setting as picturesque as it is historic, indy race cars will once again grace the streets, offering fans the ability to see first hand cars that made motor racing history. Established in 2017, Vintage Indy is a showcase spanning a timeline from 1911 to 2004. The organization's mission is to ensure that these rolling pieces of history are not only preserved, but celebrated, allowing future generations to marvel at their period designs and engineering. This year's event promises an even more immersive experience for fans. The paddock, located near the serene backdrop of Phipps Conservatory, provides a unique opportunity for enthusiasts to get up close and personal with the cars, drivers, and the skilled mechanics who keep these legends roaring to life. Michael Lashmett, President of Vintage Indy, couldn't hide his enthusiasm for the event's return to Pittsburgh. "The PVGP volunteers, the setting in Schenley Park, and the welcoming arms of Pittsburgh itself elevate this to a world-class event," he remarked. Among the historic lineup, two cars stand out: the 1972 Patrick Racing STP Eagle Offy, known for its striking dayglo red livery, and the 1991 Surfers Paradise Australia race-winning Pennzoil Lola, famously driven by the late John Andretti. These cars not only represent technological innovations of their day, but also the spirit and passion that fuel the world of IndyCar racing today. With the slogan "Driving Indy Past into the Present," Vintage Indy aims to bridge generations, bringing the stories and achievements of yesteryear into today's context. This exhibition is a celebration of the legacy that has shaped motorsports. The excitement is palpable among Pittsburgh's racing community, still buzzing from the event three years prior. The opportunity to witness these historic cars navigate the challenging streets of Schenley Park, with its tight stone-walled turns and iconic Panther Hollow Bridge, is a rare and thrilling prospect. The event also offers a nod to racing royalty, with past appearances by legends like Al Unser Jr and Pittsburgh's own Chip Ganassi, hinting at more surprises for this summer's edition. Vintage Indy 2024: |
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