The Watkins Glen Grand Prix Tribute 2011 was held Friday, September 9th in Watkins Glen, New York. An estimated 20,000 spectators enjoyed the all-day festival that plays a key part of the U.S. Vintage Grand Prix at Watkins Glen International.
The Watkins Glen Grand Prix Tribute is designed to recreate the ambiance of the 1948-52 Watkins Glen street races by parading cars along the original 6.6 mile road course as used in the Grand Prix races of that era. The race tribute is open to select historic racing cars participating in the U.S. Vintage Grand Prix held at nearby Watkins Glen International. The Tribute takes place on the Friday before the race weekend, primarily along Franklin Street in Watkins Glen.
Among other events, the Tribute also has a Concours for cars of special significance, with Antique, Classic, Sport and Race categories.
In addition to the on-track action at the 2011 U.S. Vintage Grand Prix at Watkins Glen, photographer Michael DiPleco also documented the Watkins Glen Grand Prix Tribute and Concours with the following pictures that show the entertaining off-track action that supports the historic race weekend.
Watkins Glen Grand Prix Tribute 2011 – Photo Gallery (click image for larger picture and description)
For more information on the Grand Prix Festival of Watkins Glen, visit grandprixfestival.com.
[Source: Grand Prix Festival; photo credit: Michael DiPleco]
I enjoyed Michael DiPleco’s story and photos of the 2011 Grand Prix Festival. In my opinion they’re the best I’ve seen and really capture the essence of this great event. Kudos to you and Mr. DiPleco on a job well done.
I was there, as I am every year. Your photographs are wonderful – especially those that cover the downtown Watkins Glen festivities. That is my favorite part of the weekend, but is rarely covered. Nicely done!
Foto number two was not of the Simca 1000 as mentioned but the emblem of the polish 2stroke Smyrna on foto nr 5