The Weathertech International Challenge with Brian Redman presented by HAWK.
The Weathertech International Challenge is an event that I mark on my calendar every year. From a fans perspective, it is a much more laid back event where you get to experience a wide variety of cars. There is a little bit for everyone. Not only do you get to see classic racecars from every era, Friday night holds a concourse in scenic downtown Elkhart Lake. Being able to see racecars parked on the street of the quaint little town is actually my favorite part of the weekend. The streets absolutely fill up with spectators who can view every car up close and personal.
This year I made the trip up about 2 hours before the parade into town. I have a friend who works at a business in Elkhart Lake called “The Throttlestop” (he actually is the one responsible for coming up with the design of the classic grey/black Midwest Automotive hoodies). MY buddy Ned and I walked got a chance to stop in and take a look at the incredible selection that they have inside.
The Ford GT from this era may be my favorite American built car.
The details at “The Throttlestop” were incredible. Wrenches for drawer handles, classic artwork, and automotive inspired furniture designs lined the rooms. I can’t post every photo, but if I could design my perfect garage, it would have many of the details put into this place. If you haven’t been, I highly suggest stopping in for a visit.
Big shoutout to my buddy Ned for grabbing this photo of me.
This Porsche is owned by Kris Clewell. He hosts a podcast called “Overcrest” which is one of my weekly listen’s (Give it a listen here). While he preach more than is necessary about all might Porsche, the podcast really is great and I suggest you give it a listen. Find a “history” episode and start with that, they are absolutely fantastic and his co-host Jake does a terrific job.
Thanks to Kris above, I am starting to desire a 911.
I love vintage looking automotive art. If my walls werent covered with my own photographs, they would be covered in this style of art.
I liked the way the light hit this fender.
One of the best parts of the downtown Friday night concourse is the accesability to the drivers/owners of the cars. Not only are they gracious enough to show them up close, many stand around and talk with all of the spectators. Hearing the passion in their stories is something that just stops you in your tracks.
My favorite shot from downtown. A bit abstract, but the gold vinyl against the carbon body just pops.
These are the street of downtown Elkhart Lake during the brief 2 hour showcase. At times it can be tough to move around, but it is so worth it.
As the night was ending, it was time to find a spot along the parade route and enjoy all of the racecars rolling out. IT’s not too often you get to see cars these race prepped on public streets.
After the parade we headed home for the night. We were planning to get up to Road America early the next morning.
Shooting during the bright sun is difficult at Road America when you are shooting from spectator areas. One of my favorite spots is to shoot from the outside just before turn 6 up Corvette hill. With the dark background of the trees, you can really play with the light and cause some hard shadows.
To me this one of the coolest looking cars of the weekend. Being a child of the 90’s, I remember seeing these on TV and in advertisements.
3 wheelin’ in this seems like a death wish.
The Rebellion car was one of my favorites all weekend long. With my recent interest in IMSA, this car highly peaked my interest.
There is nothing like the sound of a Formula 1 car echoing through the trees.
When Road America initally posted they built these “Selfie Stations” there was a huge backlash. “Millennials these days…”. I am all for anything that brings more attention to Road America. Without introducing the new generation to this track, we may not have it long.
What better way to end than with some rear shots of the Benetton F1 car heading through turn 6.
Vintage weekend at Road America is a great introduction to the racetrack for interested parties and families. The visual difference between pre-war racers and modern prototypes captures the imagination of even the youngest kids. The racing is much more relaxed, cautions are few and far between meaning the track is constantly filled with action. I personally find it difficult to think of a better way to spend a Friday afternoon or Saturday than at up Road America for Vintage weekend.
– Andrew
