The Celebration of Automobiles event will return May 10-13, 2012 to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, leading up to the 96th Indianapolis 500 by honoring “The Manufacturers of the Indianapolis 500” and the rich history of the race.
Vintage and classic cars from 1920 to 1970 produced by manufacturers participating in the Indianapolis 500 during that era will be the featured vehicles in 2012, such as Alfa Romeo, Auburn, Bentley, Bugatti, Buick, Chrysler, Dodge, Duesenberg, Ferrari, Fiat, Maserati, Mercedes-Benz, Stutz and many more. Special tribute will be paid to cars from Chevrolet, Honda and Lotus, the three engine manufacturers participating in the IZOD IndyCar Series and Indianapolis 500 starting in 2012.
The inaugural Celebration of Automobiles on May 14, 2011 featured more than 200 classic cars from 1911 to 1961 on display among some of the most iconic spots at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, including the Pagoda Plaza and Legends Row.
“We’re thrilled to welcome the return of the Celebration of Automobiles,” said Jeff Belskus, Indianapolis Motor Speedway Corporation president and chief executive officer. “The feedback from participants and fans was so positive last May, and we were honored to play host to so many beautiful cars and enthusiasts. The Celebration of Automobiles was a magical event and quickly is evolving into another wonderful Month of May tradition in Indianapolis for everyone to enjoy.”
The 2012 Celebration of Automobiles will feature an expanded schedule for participants and fans.
Activity will begin Thursday, May 10 with a golf event for entrants at Brickyard Crossing Golf Course at IMS, an 18-hole championship course designed by the legendary Pete Dye that includes four holes in the infield of the IMS oval.
Registration will take place Friday, May 11. Entrants also can participate in a track lap, exhibit their cars and enjoy a new Welcome Reception at the world-renowned IMS Hall of Fame Museum.
Judging for the Celebration of Automobiles will take place Saturday, May 12 in a variety of classes. Winners will be announced that evening at the Awards Dinner, which will feature question-and-answer sessions with Indianapolis 500 drivers and IMS Historian Donald Davidson and other activities.
Another new addition to the schedule will be a track lap shortly before Indianapolis 500 practice Sunday, May 13 for 2012 Celebration of Automobiles winning cars and selected significant cars as selected by the judges.
The 2012 Celebration of Automobiles will be by invitation only, with 200 entries. The entry fee is $100 per owner. For additional information, visit www.indianapolismotorspeedway.com.
[Source: IMS; photo credit: Mark Reed]
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