The “Voice of the Vintage” Ted Sohier opened the program and Executive Director Dan DelBianco introduced sponsors. PVGP chairman Jim Dolan recognized past board members and toasted the event with a drink from the Kastner Cup. Showside Director Bob Speer gave a toast and introduced car clubs.

BMW was the PVGP’s 2018 Marque of the Year and more than a dozen members of the local and national clubs were on hand to unveil the record setting efforts. With the help of the BMW CCA, bringing their national Oktoberfest event to Pittsburgh and the tireless efforts of the local Allegheny Chapter – a record $126,500 was raised! The Pittsburgh area BMW dealers led by Rahal BMW fueled the record with sponsorship and generous donation of auction items. These record funds included individual donations, track rides, event tickets, racer entry fees and merchandise, with the largest portion coming from entry fees to the O’Fest gathering at Schenley Park. In addition to a financial record the BMW club set another record with 750 cars parked on the golf course. The previous record of $75,300 was set in 2013 by Mustang and the Neighborhood Ford Store. Thanks to all the participating car clubs and a heartfelt congratulations to the BMW Car Club of America!
2018 Checkered Flag Winners
Manfred Woodall – Media and Website Team
Reid Smith – Donation Stations Captain and sponsor
Mike Csonka – Flagstaff Hill Parking
Brad Meyer – Clubhouse
Bob McKeown – Car Collector and PVGP Car Show Participant
Andrew Stockey – Emcee for Blacktie Gala and unofficial ambassador
Bobby Rahal Auto Group – Sponsor
Allegheny Chapter BMW Club – 2018 Marque of the Year
Corky Bennett – HAM Radio Captain
Lenny Santora – Corner worker and volunteer since 1991
Allan Rubin – Race side volunteer since 2006
Clare & Wayne Kaufmann – Race side volunteers since 1985
Jim & Kelly Gezo – Race-side, show-side and Race Week volunteers