If you are along the route please plan to check out the classic cars coming to your area.
We can hardly contain our excitement as we prepare for another exhilarating ride in the Great Race. Officially called the HEMMINGS MOTOR NEWS GREAT RACE presented by Coker Tire, most people know this monumental road rally simply as the Great Race. As we speak, Mary and I are revving up our trusty 1967 GTO, getting ready to hit the road for the twelfth time in this epic automotive rally. The Great Race is a cherished tradition for us, a test of skill, determination, and an unyielding passion for classic cars.
St. Augustine to Colorado Springs
This year the Great Race runs from June 24 to July 2, 2023, from Saint Augustine, Florida, to Colorado Springs, Colorado, traveling through Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee, Arkansas, Missouri, Kansas, and Colorado.
Now, before we delve into the thrilling journey that awaits us, let me set the record straight – the Great Race is not just a race, it’s a rally. It’s not about who crosses the finish line first, but about the camaraderie, the spirit of adventure, and the pursuit of excellence that unites us all. The motto that echoes in our hearts is “Rally, Repair, Repeat” – a testament to the true essence of this incredible event.
Great Race Schedule
So, let’s take a look at the schedule for the Great Race 2023. Get ready to mark your calendars. If you are near any of these locations, we encourage you to come out and say hello. We are excited to once again embark on a breathtaking journey through some of the most beautiful corners of this great land:
Saturday, June 24: Start: St. Augustine, FL Overnight: Tifton, GA
NOTE: If you are in the St. Augustine area, cars will begin arriving in town as early as Wednesday June 21. You can also watch the tech inspections at World Golf Village on Thursday. On Friday June 23, the Great Race cars will arrive at the Classic Car Museum of St. Augustine for lunch at around noon after finishing their practice rally. This is a great spot to see all the participants.
- Sunday, June 25: Lunch: Toomer’s Corner, Auburn, AL Overnight: Birmingham, AL
- Monday, June 26: Lunch: Tupelo, MS Overnight: Graceland, Memphis, TN
- Tuesday, June 27: Lunch: North Little Rock, AR Overnight: Russellville, AR
- Wednesday, June 28: Lunch: Eureka Springs, AR Overnight: Joplin, MO
- Thursday, June 29: Lunch: Emporia, KS Overnight: Wichita, KS
- Friday, June 30: Lunch: Great Bend, KS Overnight: Garden City, KS
- Saturday, July 1: Lunch: Lamar, CO Overnight: Pueblo, CO
- Sunday, July 2: FINISH: Colorado Springs, CO
As you can see, each day of the rally brings us closer to the grand finale, but it’s not just about reaching the destination. Along the way, we’ll encounter challenges, obstacles, and opportunities to showcase our skills as drivers and navigators. It’s a true test of teamwork and precision.
Throughout the rally, our mantra remains clear – to finish is to win. It’s not about who claims the top spot on the leaderboard, but about the sheer joy of completing each leg of the journey and overcoming every obstacle that comes our way. It’s about the smiles, the cheers, and the shared sense of accomplishment when we cross that finish line.
Mary and I have been fortunate to witness the beauty of this great country unfold before our eyes year after year. From the historical charm of St. Augustine to the majestic landscapes of Colorado Springs, the Great Race allows us to immerse ourselves in the rich tapestry of America’s heritage and natural wonders.
Spirit of Stahls
As we have in years past, there will be several Spirit of Stahls teams participating in the Great Race. We look forward to rallying with Trevor Stahl and Josh Hull (last year’s Great Race winners) in the 1932 Ford Speedster, along with Dan Stahl and Brad Phillips in the 1916 Hudson Series H. Brett and Noah Stahl, a father and son team, will also be rallying again. We will post pictures of all the drivers, navigators and cars as soon as everyone arrives.
Stay tuned for more updates, behind-the-scenes stories, and insights into the world of classic cars as we embark on this thrilling journey. Together, let’s rally, repair, and repeat – and make the Great Race 2023 one for the history books!
Hope to see you at the starting line or along the route. We will be posting photos and news of our adventure every day so tune in.