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The 7th annual Legends Day on November 17 shone its spotlight on road racers who had major success across New England. A full house was delighted by conversation among race winning drivers led by well-known road race announcer Greg Rickes.

A full fleet of road race cars were on display. Included was Sam Posey’s D-7 Can Am car, Frank Grimaldi’s #80 Camaro, Skip Barber’s 1970 March 701, the midget driven to road racing’s biggest New England upset by Rodger Ward when he beat the late 1950’s finest road racing cars and drivers, Peter Ross’s 1932 MG, Bill Binnie’s 24-hours of LeMans Lola and more.

The crowd that came to see and hear about road racing in New England filled every seat. The event was supported by Lime Rock Park and Thompson Speedway. Early arrivals toured the museum with founder Dick Berggren providing commentary on the exhibits. A fine BBQ lunch was served by Smoke Shack.

As the show progressed Rickes asked drivers to tell the crowd about the best and worst cars they ever drove. Skip Barber brought the house down in describing his “worst” as “that one” as he pointed to Frank Grimaldi’s #80 Camaro which, when he attempted to start the engine Barber’s short reach couldn’t connect his hand with the key. Grimaldi assured that the car was a good one despite the switch.

Chris Dyson said the biggest influence on his life was “my mother” and Rob Dyson named the most influential person in his life as “…my wife who was my supporter in many ways.” Rob’s wife and Chris’s mother are the same.

The event closed with a fundraising auction and the unveiling of the ceiling banners of each honoree. The banners joined those from prior Legends Day events.

We’re already making plans for next year’s Legends Day.

Photo by Patten Photography