Run over 2,100-miles, this year’s “Great Race” started in Ogunquit, Maine and wound its way to The Villages, Florida. Spectators flock to the over 19 cities and towns along the route to see the many pre-1972 cars and trucks, which were battling for some $150,000 in prize money.
More than 100 vehicles started this year’s Great Race, with the oldest being a 1915 Hudson. After three years of trying, the 1915 Hudson finally crossed the finish line successfully, a remarkable feat. Other recognizable cars, such as the “General Lee” and a real-life recreation of “Doc Hudson” from the Pixar movie, Cars, competed alongside a number of eclectic classic cars and muscle cars. “When the Great Race pulls into a city it becomes an instant festival,” Great Race Director Jeff Stumb said.
After nine days of rallying on a very challenging course, the recipients of the $50,000 winner’s check were Barry and Irene Jason, of Keller, Texas. They drove a 1966 Ford Mustang, which surprisingly is the first post-WWII vehicle ever to win the event. The Jasons wowed the Great Race scoring staff by scoring a completely perfect day, something that had never been done before! The perfect daily score of zero seconds helped their overall score greatly, and eventually led to their amazing victory. This is the third consecutive win for the Jasons.
