About this event
LUCKY SEVENTH ANNUAL COATESVILLE VINTAGE GRAND PRIX
The popular Coatesville Invitational Vintage Grand Prix will return to the streets of Coatesville, PA for an exhibition of vintage race cars and motorcycles in action.
The City of Coatesville is excited to welcome all drivers and motorcyclist back to the Seventh Annual Coatesville Invitational Vintage Grand Prix!
Please note: This event is currently capped at 45 cars and 30 motorcycles.
GENERAL
Vintage race cars and motorcycles will run untimed lapping sessions by class, with a staggered start. This is not wheel-to-wheel racing, it is an exhibition! The intent is to demonstrate the driving of these historic vehicles to the spectating public. Controlled passing will be permitted in specific track areas.
This event is open to anyone with a vintage race car or motorcycle meeting the VGP criteria. If you are interested in entering your historic competition vehicle in the event, please preregister here and provide details of your car or motorcycle, including a picture. Our race stewards and technical staff will review your provided information and approve your entry if it meets the spirit of the event and technical requirements (space permitting). Your credit card will not be charged until your entry is approved.
ELIGIBLE CARS AND MOTORCYCLES
All participating vehicles should be dedicated race vehicles, built or modified for that purpose. With historic race cars and motorcycles increasing in value, vintage racing organizations are finding fewer and fewer vehicles coming out to events. Numerous vintage racing organizations now allow a wide variety of replica race cars and motorcycles.
We will accept period-correct replicas. All vehicles are subject to a vetting process to ensure they match the historic spirit of the event.
Cars: $200
Motorcycles: $150
Lunch will be provided near the pit/paddock area by the City of Coatesville. VIP access available for registered drivers (+ one) only near the start area.
Event requirements
CLASSES
Cars and motorcycles will be grouped by type and performance potential. Vehicle classes are generally as follows:
- Group 1: 1900-1950 Open Wheel Race Cars
- Group 2: 1950-1983 4- and 6- Cylinder Race Cars
- Group 3: 1950-1983 6-, 8-, and 12-Cylinder Race Cars
- Group 4: 1900-1983 Motorcycles - 500cc and Under
- Group 5: 1900-1983 Motorcycles - Over 500cc
Please note: The Chief Steward reserves the right to adjust entry class to group vehicles by similar performance potential.
DRIVER / RIDER SAFETY
- Drivers / riders must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver’s license.
- Approved helmet is required. Helmets must be Snell 2010 or newer - SA rated for cars and SA or M rated for motorcycles. DOT motorcycle helmets, "pea-pot", "peanut shell", "shorty", or other noncompliant helmets are not acceptable.
- Loaner helmets will not be available due to COVID precautions.
- Eye protection is required. Drivers using open-faced helmets must use goggles or impact resistant face shields. Glasses alone are not sufficient.
- A fire-retardant balaclava is highly recommended, especially for drivers with beards / mustaches or using open-faced helmets.
- It is strongly recommended that all drivers wear a fire-retardant driver’s suit. Fire retardant underwear is suggested, but not required. All clothing must be made of fire-resistant material.
- Driving shoes with uppers made of leather or nonflammable materials are strongly suggested. No sneakers or street shoes are allowed. Socks made of fire-resistant material are required.
- Gloves made of leather and/or fire-retardant material and without any holes are required.
VEHICLE SAFETY
- Vehicles must pass a safety and technical inspection.
- NEW: All cars must have a functional and solidly mounted rearview mirror allowing the driver to see traffic behind the vehicle. Mirrors are preferred but not required for motorcycles if rider maintains situational awareness.
- NEW: Cars must be capable of self-starting under normal conditions. No push vehicles except due to mechanical failure.
- No loose or unsecured items in any area.
- Roll bar / cage for open cars is strongly recommended, but not required.
- Roll bar / cage for cars with an integrated structural hard top is encouraged, but not required.
- Seatbelts / harnesses are required, except for period-correct Group 1 open wheeled cars. A minimum of a lap belt is required, although a three (3) point seat belt is much preferred for safety reasons. It is highly recommended to use a multi-point racing harness in cars with a roll bar / cage fitted.
- Seatbelt / harness must be mounted correctly and in good condition, without tears or excessive wear.
- Fire extinguisher - 2.5 lb or greater fire extinguisher with a charge gauge is required, and must be securely mounted in the driver’s compartment within reach of the driver. On-board fire suppression system will be acceptable in lieu of portable extinguisher.
- A power cut off switch is required if the battery has been relocated, with its location clearly marked.
- Motorcycles are exempt from the above vehicle safety requirements, but must pass technical inspection.
- All entering cars and motorcycles must be fitted with wheels and tires of an appropriate size, in good condition, with no cuts, sidewall cracks, or exposed cords. Note! This is a rain or shine event. Tire selection should be appropriate for weather and surface conditions.
- No car or motorcycle will be allowed to participate if there are any visible fluid leaks, damaged bodywork, or other items deemed unsafe by the Chief Scrutineer.
- Vehicles found non-compliant will be asked to correct the issue before the event starts. If the issue cannot be fixed, the vehicle will not be allowed to compete in the event and the entrant will forfeit their entry fee.
- The decision of the Chief Scrutineer is final and cannot be appealed. Please come properly prepared to avoid any issues. NO EXCEPTIONS!
GENERAL SAFETY
- All entrants and crew must sign a release and waiver of liability. Parent / guardian signatures are required for those under 18.
- Driver / rider registration includes lanyard / wristband for up to 2 additional crew members.
- We reserve the right to modify / interpret these rules to suit the spirit of the event and to promote safety. If you have any questions, please contact the event administrator. Thank you.