Unleashing Speed: Highlights from the Spectacular 2024 Velocity Invitational
The year 2024 marked the fifth running of the Velocity Invitational, an event renowned for blending star power with the roar of genuine horsepower. Set against the backdrop of Napa Valley's sun-drenched skies, the event showcased a remarkable assortment of vehicles and celebrity racers eager to show off their skills. From classic vintage beasts to the latest hypercars, the invitational was a smorgasbord of speed that attracted motorsport enthusiasts from all walks of life.
The Stars of the Show
The event featured some of racing's biggest names, all vying for supremacy in various contests held throughout the weekend. Among those making waves were legendary IndyCar driver Tony Kanaan, who took to the track in a McLaren Senna. Despite the hype surrounding him, Kanaan finished a modest tenth in the hillclimb, revealing the fiercely competitive nature of the event. Fellow IndyCar star J.R. Hildebrand bested Kanaan slightly, securing ninth place in a 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix NASCAR. However, the spotlight was stolen by Romain Grosjean, a former Formula One driver, who skillfully maneuvered a Ford GT Mk IV, narrowly missing the top podium spot.
In a fierce showdown, it was Scott Speed in Subaru's Project Midnight that claimed victory, dominating the hill climb segment. The vehicle, producing a staggering 670 horsepower from its specialized, high-revving flat-four engine, demonstrated both speed and efficiency, proving itself a worthy competitor. Grosjean's near win alongside Speed's prowess undoubtedly set the tone for an electrifying race weekend.
A Show of Performance and Style
While speed was the essence of the event, Subaru also recalled nostalgia by showcasing their Family Huckster, an astonishing 850-horsepower reinterpretation of the iconic 1983 Subaru GL wagon. Extreme sports legend Travis Pastrana lit up the front straight, offering gymkhana-style ride-alongs as he shredded tires and thrilled passengers, including Kanaan and Hildebrand themselves. The underlying excitement was palpable as attendees watched the automotive fireworks unfold, each ride producing cheers and laughter.
Marquee Vehicles That Turn Heads
Among the vehicles that caught the eye was Subaru's famous 1998 Impreza 22B STI, impressively draped in its signature World Rally Blue livery. Surrounded by a strong collection of rally cars from Washington’s Dirtfish, including a classic Peugeot 205 and a Lancia Rally, enthusiasts reveled in the rich motorsport heritage encapsulated in each vehicle.
For auctions, RM Sotheby’s turned heads with an unrestored, alloy-bodied 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing. Once owned by three-time Le Mans winner Luigi Chinetti, this remarkable piece of automotive history had a starting auction estimate between $4.5 and $6 million. Nearby, a restored version sat waiting for a final bid starting at $1.6 million, further demonstrating the allure of classic cars.
A Celebration of Timeless Engineering
Visitors at the Velocity Invitational were treated to an awe-inspiring display of engineering excellence, with several Jaguar D-Types commemorating their 70th anniversary. Of the 71 models produced, seeing five of them together was indeed a rare treat. These classic racers are not only mechanical masterpieces but also reflect the timeless appeal still resonating in today's automotive culture.
Adding to the spectacle, several vintage racing icons emerged, including a 1966 Ford GT and a Flying Lizard Porsche RSR; both vehicles invoked a sense of nostalgia blended with excitement. With their racing history firmly in place, they reminded fans of the glory days of competition and the quest for speed. The Mercedes CLK GTR, a road version of the illustrious Le Mans racer, further solidified the celebratory atmosphere, capturing the spirits of speed enthusiasts.
A Rich Tapestry of Car Culture
The event was not solely about high-speed racing; it also provided space for lowriders that captivated attendees with their meticulous customization and impressive craftsmanship. Showcasing an array of vehicles, from elegant cruisers to jaw-dropping race cars, the atmosphere thrummed with deep appreciation for the diverse automotive culture.
For those fortunate enough to attend, the 2024 Velocity Invitational served as a definitive celebration of speed and style, where modern engineering and historical racing pedigree harmoniously combined. With star-studded appearances and show-stopping machines, this event reinforced the notion that the world of automobiles transcends beyond mere transportation—it celebrates artistry, passion, and shared experiences.
