by Bernard Martin

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.

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

Kip 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.

Brian 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.

by Bernard Martin ​www.linkedin.com/in/bernardmartin/

​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.

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!

by ​Rafael Migoyo (with some edits and corrections by Bernard Martin)
​
This is just the beginning of the story...

This was the beginning of a journey neither of us could have anticipated, a tale of ambition, camaraderie, and the pursuit of a dream that would bridge continents and cultures. From that night forward, our lives were entwined in a project that was as daring as it was inspiring, all sparked by a conversation over dinner, under the stars of Pittsburgh.

A few weeks had passed since that memorable evening at Girasole, when Bernard and I decided to reconvene, this time at my place. True to tradition, and perhaps a bit ambitiously for his caffeine tolerance, I served him a mug of my Cuban coffee. This wasn't just any coffee; it was a brew that had slowly been making a name for itself among friends and family, a recipe I've perfected since I was a kid, sneaking to the coffee maker before my parents could wake up on weekend mornings.

As we settled in, the aroma of the coffee filling the room, we dove back into our conversation with a sense of purpose and excitement. I had news to share, updates that could potentially move our project forward, and Bernard was equally prepared, his own updates adding to the growing momentum of our plan.

The dialogue flowed effortlessly, as if picking up right where we left off. With every new idea, we found ourselves on the phone, verifying claims, seeking advice, and, most importantly, making connections. Our meeting turned into a brainstorming session, with each phone call opening new possibilities and each introduction expanding our network. The energy was palpable, a testament to the synergy between us and the potential of what we were setting out to achieve. 

by Bernard Martin

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.

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.
​

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

Few cars have left an enduring legacy as profound as the Mazda Miata. With its sleek design, responsive handling, and a commitment to the pure joy of driving, the Miata has become a symbol of innovation since its introduction in 1989. This year, the spotlight is on the Miata as it takes center stage at the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix's 2024 Rock N Rad Show, scheduled to rock Highmark Stadium on June 15.

Reviving the Spirit of Roadsters
The Mazda Miata, affectionately known as the MX-5 in some regions, burst onto the scene in 1989, redefining the roadster segment. At a time when sports cars were becoming increasingly complex and expensive, the Miata brought back the essence of classic roadsters – simplicity, agility, and an open-top driving experience. This was at at time when no compnay was introducing drop tops and the entire idea of a convertable was thought to be dead forever. Its compact yet stylish design captured the attention of enthusiasts worldwide.
​
Setting a New Standard
What made the Miata truly revolutionary was its commitment to providing an affordable yet exhilarating driving experience. The lightweight construction, rear-wheel drive, and a perfect 50:50 weight distribution contributed to its nimble handling, making every drive a thrilling adventure. The Miata wasn't just a car; it was a statement that driving should be about pure enjoyment.
​

According to ConceptCars, the Miata "was conceived in the United States at Mazda's design headquarters in California and built in Japan. It made its first debut at the February 1989 Chicago Auto Show where it was an immediate success. Powering the MX-5 Miata was a four-cylinder dual-overhead-cam engine offering 116 horsepower. It had a fully independent suspension with dual wishbones, coil springs, and anti-roll bars. At all four corners were disc brakes."

Influence on the Automotive World
The impact of the Mazda Miata on the automotive world cannot be overstated. It inspired a new generation of sports cars, and its influence can be seen in various models across different brands. The Miata's success demonstrated that a sports car could be both affordable and fun, challenging the notion that high performance came with a hefty price tag. Its timeless design and spirited driving experience continue to attract enthusiasts, maintaining its status as a classic.

HOW IT HAPPENED
We've had the conversation over and over again, that car shows and concours need to stop ending eligibility at 1973 or 1975 or whatever year in the 70's someone picked a long time ago. Cars become eligible for vintage plates in many states after 25 years. 

But more importantly, it's about personal memories. Back in the day I heard stories about "My grandfather put me in a rumble seat just like that."

That's wasthe emotional hook. 

In order to capture the next generation of auto aficianados we'v got to keep rolling what we call "vintage" forward. That's why we chose to highlight the Dodge Viper, at the inaugural Greenbrier Concours d' Elegance, for this very same reason back in 2018. Let's get the next generation involved!

The time has now come to recognize the significance of the Mazda Miata. Back in the late 80's when automobile writers were lamenting the death of the ragtop, with no new convertibles being made, along came Mazda. They captured the spirit of the sheer joy of the open top roadster. That's the next generation's emotional hook and we're going to embrace it at this 2024 #ROCKNRAD show"
~ Bernie Martin

by Bernard Martin

In recent years, the increasing competition among photojournalists and photographers has led to a surge in organizations enforcing the copyrights of images. Major firms such as Getty Images, widely believed to have pioneered this practice, and now the Associated Press (AP), are aggressively managing the licensing and use of photographs. While these efforts protect photographers’ rights, they have also created unintended consequences, particularly in the world of motorsports and other live event.

The Problem at Sporting and Automotive Events
At racing events, car shows, and concours d’elegance, photographers capture thousands of images featuring teams, drivers, cars, and venue activities. Historically, these images were shared freely with participants, fans, and team members, fostering goodwill and providing valuable promotional material. However, with the rise of copyright enforcement firms, individuals and organizations depicted in these photos are increasingly being asked to pay for their use—even when the photographer who took the image is unaware of the situation.

For example, race engineers have found themselves approached for payment years after posting podium photos on their websites. These photos, often taken by credentialed photographers under event-issued media passes, become entangled in copyright disputes, leaving teams, sponsors, and venue owners frustrated. The photographers themselves frequently lack control over how their images are monetized, as they may have signed agreements that transfer enforcement rights to agencies like Getty or AP.

Legal and Ethical Implications
This practice raises several ethical and legal questions:

• Fair Use vs. Licensing: Teams and participants often assume they have implicit permission to use images in which they appear, particularly for non-commercial purposes. However, current copyright laws provide no such exemption.
• Lack of Transparency: Many photographers are unaware that their images are being used to demand payments from event participants.
• Strained Relationships: This enforcement approach risks damaging relationships between photographers, event organizers, and participants, potentially deterring media coverage.

Proposed Solutions
To address these challenges, sanctioning bodies for racing events, as well as car show and concours organizers, should consider implementing standardized media usage policies. Below are key recommendations:

1. Standardized Media Release Forms – Include a clause in media badge applications that explicitly grants the venue, team owners, race drivers, car owners, and team members the right to use images for non-commercial purposes. – Ensure photographers retain commercial licensing rights while clarifying the scope of permissible use by participants.
2. Event-Specific Licensing Agreements – Create event-specific agreements that outline permissible image use for promotional purposes by teams and participants. – Include a clear opt-in or opt-out provision for photographers who do not wish to transfer enforcement rights to third parties.
3. Education and Awareness – Educate photographers, teams, and participants about copyright laws and their implications. – Provide workshops or informational materials during events to ensure all parties understand the terms of media use.
4. Collaboration with Copyright Agencies – Encourage organizations like Getty Images and AP to adopt more flexible licensing terms for event photography. – Advocate for policies that prioritize collaboration over enforcement, fostering a more amicable relationship between all stakeholders.
5. Adopt Digital Watermarking and Licensing Platforms – Utilize platforms that enable photographers to license their images directly to teams and participants at fair rates. – Implement digital watermarking to ensure proper attribution while maintaining control over usage.

Let’s Keep It Fun
The current system of copyright enforcement for event photography creates significant challenges for photographers, event organizers, and participants alike. By adopting standardized media policies, fostering greater transparency, and encouraging collaboration, the industry can balance the rights of photographers with the practical needs of teams and venues.

This approach not only protects intellectual property but also promotes a positive and cooperative environment, ensuring the continued success of motorsports, car shows, and concours events.

At the end of the day, we’re all here because we love motorsports, car shows, and the amazing people who make them happen. By working together and adopting some common-sense solutions, we can keep the focus on what really matters—celebrating the passion, performance, and community that bring us all together.

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.
​
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.
​
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.