Monterey 2009: Vintage racers exude speed even at rest

Even though it's essentially run just for fun, the track action at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca can be downright menacing during the Monterey Historic Automobile Races. Just ask the Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa driver who had a severe pucker moment on Saturday. Sure, the cars survived relatively unscathed, but some drivers may probably going to have second thoughts come Monterey 2010.

Given our current economic and environmental attitudes, it is conceivable (if unlikely) that historic racing might not last far into the next decade. What a pity it would be for vintage racing to go away, but quite honestly, this event could easily continue as nothing more then a classic motorsports car show. The cars themselves certainly draw more than flies – and even at rest, they look so amazingly fast and stylish that simply touring the paddock can be enough entertainment for all but the most jaded fan.

Just by strolling around the paddock you can see, feel, taste and hear things that will instantly elicit a smile every time the memory rises in your brain. While working our way around the infield on Saturday we came across dozens of cars, bikes, and people that left us in awe... but even so, we still hope that the racing continues, if only for the noise and added visuals.



Photos copyright ©2009 Frank Filipponio / Weblogs, Inc.