HRC 60TH ANNIVERSARY OLD TIMERS REUNION FALL DINNER/SOCIAL September 10, 2010 Marker Sign Donor Recognition Plaque Presentation/Last Race Painting Auction

The 1949 Jaguar XK120 currently owned by Society member Roger.

Historical materials on display at the reception.

The Preservation Society held its Fall Dinner/Social on Friday evening, September 10th at the historic Siebkens Resort. The event had been moved from the usual Thursday night to Friday to tie it closer to the 60th Anniversary Celebration. The much anticipated program was focused on honoring those who were actually there during the original open road races and the Guest of Honor was John Fitch winner of the 1951 and 1952 Main Events.

With over 180 reservations for the event the cocktail reception was moved out of doors under a large tent for the occasion. On display for everyone to enjoy were a 1949 Jaguar XK120 that had been owned by Brooks Stevens and raced by James Feld in 1950 and the Jaguar C-type in which Phil Hill won the Sheldon Cup Race in 1952.

The Sheboygan County Historical Resource Center and many Old Timers brought materials from the original races that were on display during the reception and John Fitch socialized and signed autographs to the delight of everyone. The cocktail reception was followed by dinner and as usual, the Siebkens kitchen staff served a fantastic meal.

John Fitch and Augie Pabst recall fond memories at the reception.

Conrad Barrows as Master of Ceremonies introduces the Old Timers Reunion program.

With Conrad Barrows as Master of Ceremonies, the program began with the introduction of John Fitch. At 93, John had amazing recall and clarity of mind as he related some of his early racing experiences. Asked who he felt was the most talented race car driver of his time; John unhesitatingly and modestly responded that it was his Cunningham team mate, Phil Walters. He went on to delight the audience with tales of his involvement with General Motors and the development of the Corvette racing team.Following John, Conrad presented a video reenactment of the historic races featuring both still photos and moving picture film of the original races. The program was extremely well received and everyone seemed to agree that this was one of the most outstanding Dinner/Social events ever held by the Preservation Society.

The main dining room at Siebkens where members and guests enjoyed another great meal.

Note: DVD copies of the entire Old Timers Reunion Program are available for a donation of $30.00. Contact Conrad Barrows by email at cabarrows@hughes.net.