The PVGP is partnering with Autoventure to stage the 60th GT40 Reunion during our Historics Race Weekend on July 26-28, 2024, at Pittsburgh International Race Complex.
The legendary GT40 turns 60 this year, and a grand reunion is planned in conjunction with the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix’s Historic Races at Pittsburgh International Race Complex in Wampum, PA, July 26 through 28, 2024.
It’s hard to believe that the GT40 has existed for 60 years. It seems not long ago that it was the first American car to win the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans. The Ford GT40 was first raced in May 1964 at Nürburgring. The mystique of this legendary car grows with time. This gathering will feature original GT40 race cars, recreations, and modern-day versions like the Ford GT. This is your chance to see them up close this summer in Pittsburgh.
The paddock and VDA at Pitt Race will be packed with GT40s and enthusiasts of this historic car. There will be track sessions on Friday at noon and 3:30, Saturday at noon and 3:00 and Sunday at noon, with the GT40 Featured Race on Sunday afternoon. Schedule
About Autoventure
Rick Muck, Managing Director of AutoventureUSA, the official host of the GT40 Reunion, stated, “I have had the pleasure of attending two GT reunions, the 1989 Watkins Glen event and the 2009 Reunion at Road America. Anyone who was at one of these understands the historic nature of the event, the incredible cars, and the history and comradery that takes place there”. AutoventureUSA manufactures and distributes specialty parts primarily for Cobras, both original and replica, as well as parts for the Superformance GT40s. In conjunction with the Ford dealership, he imported and distributed the Autokraft AC MK IV “Cobra” in the 80’s after being involved with the certification of the car to US regulations. Contact Rick Muck AutoventureUSA Phone (716) 812-3938
Visit FORDGTREUNION to register as a participant
Photos by Larry Strung
PVGP Historics
The Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix Historics previously hosted the successful national convention for the Shelby American Automobile Club in 2019 and 2023. The Pitt Race facility is ideal for staging major car shows, and the challenging world-class 2.78-mile track is ideal for GT40s with open track sessions and a dedicated race group. PVGP Executive Director Dan DelBianco is equally excited about the Reunion, stating, “Pittsburgh shared a part of GT40 history when Grady Davis, Executive Vice President of Pittsburgh-based Gulf Oil, started a GT40 racing team with John Wyer Automotive Engineering. The Chassis 1075 won at Le Mans in 1968 and 1969 in its famous blue and orange Gulf Oil livery. We want to thank Rick Muck for bringing the Reunion here, and we’re fortunate that Superformance and Safir are the Presenting Sponsors.”
The PVGP raced the above GT Mk IV at Pitt Race, and both Ford GTs were featured at our car shows. They all come together as part of the 60th Reunion!
All Ford GT Variants Welcome
The Reunion is welcoming all Ford GT variants, from the original 1964 Ford GT, which became the GT40 in both Mk I and Mk II versions, the Mk IV, which won both races it entered, the reborn 2005-2006 Ford GT and the latest in the GT lineup, the 2017-2024 Ford GT. Ford-powered, accurate replicas are also welcome to attend.
Many famous and historic GT40s will be in attendance, along with significant people who were involved in the development, racing and history of these fabulous cars. The full schedule and list of events will be published shortly. For information and details, visit www.fordgtreunion.com
Presenting Sponsors
AutoventureUSA and the PVGP welcome presenting sponsors, Superformance and SAFIR GT40. Superformance LLC builds the only authorized GT40 under license from SAFIR GT40 Spares Ltd, who holds the GT40 trademarks and licensing rights. Together they have kept the legend alive and available for enthusiasts to drive and enjoy.
“We are excited to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the iconic GT40 at the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix,” said Lance Stander, CEO of Superformance. “The fierce wheel-to-wheel action is the perfect backdrop to show the public they can still order a genuine GT40 through Superformance today. We look forward to being part of the high-octane action as the ‘Ford versus Ferrari’ battle returns to the track for a few glorious days.”
“Safir GT40 is pleased to be associated with the Reunion, says John Sadler, Director of Safir. We look forward to the gathering of these very special vehicles. In the world of motorsport, the GT40 has earned an exceptional reputation as a successful racing machine and superb sports car. Enjoying the sound and sight of these very special cars is a treat.”
GT40 Reunion Costs & Details
Car Owners
Entry for your GT40 or Ford GT into the 3-day show: $195, which increases to $225.00 after June 15th. It includes a parking spot in the show, a GT40 swag bag, and a track entry lanyard. Additional guests are only $50 per person.
Attendees
Guests for the three days with no car: $70
Friday, July 26 GT40 Reunion Dinner At Marriott Cranberry
Complimentary one-hour Beer and wine bar from 6:30 to 7:30PM. A cash bar will operate until 10PM
Crudité Stations from 6:30 to 7:30
Dinner at 7:30
Menu: Market Salad, Roasted redskin potatoes, Asparagus, Choice of Entrée: Roasted Garlic Lemon Chicken, Seared Atlantic Salmon, Filet of Beef with bleu cheese topping and Desserts.
Dinner is $89.95 per person and includes entry into the evening presentation, table talks, meet & greets, and all evening functions. Entry for the evening program without dinner is $20.00 per person and admittance will be at 8:30 PM. Beverages are available at the cash bar.
Catered BBQ lunch at the track on Saturday, July 27
Lunch will be catered by award-winning DeeJay’s BBQ Ribs and Grille of Wexford, PA 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM in the Reunion compound on the VDA with tables and chairs under a tent.: $34.95 per person.
Menu: BBQ Pulled Pork, Beef Brisket, Crispy Chicken Tender Bites, Homemade Cole Slaw, Jalapeno Mac n’ Cheese, DeeJay’s Original BBQ Sauce and “Comeback” Sauce, Assorted beverages, Water, Soda, Iced Tea, etc.