The Velocity Invitational is back, welcoming fans for a weekend of ultra-luxury cars, food and fun
Imagine strolling through a paddock of the rarest cars in the world with a glass of world-class wine, hob-knobbing with world-renowned drivers and their families.
The Velocity Invitational is unlike any other automobile exhibition in the United States, combining racing events and up-close access to classic and rare cars with delicious food, wine, and spirits, all presented in a family-friendly environment. It’s Velocity Invitational founder Jeff O’Neill’s homage to one of the great auto shows, the Goodwood Festival of Speed. But unlike Goodwood – which is in Essex, England – attending the Velocity Invitational at Laguna Seca Raceway in Salinas is convenient for all California racing aficionados. Plus, unlike any other auto shows, this fledgling exhibition operates on Jeff O’Neill’s unique philosophy.
“Everybody has a car story in their past,” says O’Neill. “It’s a thread that links us all together.”
As a car enthusiast and a champion of the idea that auto racing, car collecting and the history of the automobile should be accessible to all, O’Neill was excited by the recent rise of public interest in auto racing, whether it be a hit show about Formula 1 or the expanding slate of automotive events popping up around the country. He also saw a disconnect. Many US auto shows follow the “park and show model” that leaves most of the fun of using them, to the collectors. O’Neill thought, as the birthplace of the automobile with a deeply rooted car culture, the US should have the best auto shows, where people can see and hear the cars as they were intended, on track. Thus, the Velocity Invitational was born.
“We want the Velocity Invitational to be welcoming to all,” says O’Neill of his passion project.
The annual event is in its third iteration and comes this year to the WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca from October 14th through 16th. Tickets are already on sale for the event, which is planning its largest, most exciting weekend yet.
O’Neill says the weekend will be fun experience for car enthusiasts and novices alike, due to Velocity Invitational’s unique set up.
By StoryStudio on September 12, 2022 11:19 AM
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“We’re creating an environment that’s car-centric, fun, but also educational... You’re guaranteed to see cars you’ve never seen before, cars that have been in private collections for years.
– Jeff O'Neill, Founder
Image: Jason Henry
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“We’re creating an environment that’s car-centric, fun, but also educational,” says O’Neill. He notes how novice car show fans have a tough time engaging at many car shows. The Velocity Invitational puts access and knowledge to these cars front and center. At this year’s event, attendees will see some of the rarest cars in the world – a 1996 McLaren F1 GTR, a 1938 Delage, a 2016 Ford Le Mans GT – many of which haven’t been seen in public in 20 to 40 years, all up close and personal. “I truly believe if you own a rare, classic car, it’s like owning a Monet – you’re obligated to show it.”
A day at the Velocity Invitational includes a day of engaging activity. First, take in the idyllic Central Coast setting. The iconic corkscrew racetrack at Laguna Seca sits tucked against a backdrop of beautiful rolling hills, a perfect locale to host a racing event. Second, cruise the paddock of rare cars (you won’t find any replicas here – only genuine classics) and chat with legendary drivers and collectors. Then enjoy a delicious meal in the air-conditioned Lounge Plaza or an upscale wine tasting at the Sip & Savor Pavilion.
All the while, racecars speed around the track. At the Velocity Invitational, every car – from McLarens to Mercedes – will roar across the corkscrew, giving racing fans a breathtaking look at these innovative works of art in action. Many of last year’s popular events are returning for 2022, like the Porsche 917 exhibition and the one-of-a-kind Mini v Mustang race, where the classic kings of zip take on America’s muscle car of choice. O’Neill himself will be debuting some classic cars on the tarmac: a 1960 Maserati Birdcage, a 1962 Ferrari GT0 (only 36 made in the world) and his beloved Parnelli Jones Mustang Trans Am.
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“You’re guaranteed to see cars you’ve never seen before, cars that have been in private collections for years,” boasts O’Neill. That’s the big difference at the Velocity Invitational. Not only do families have an inclusive place to learn about racing and classic cars, collectors finally have a safe forum to showcase their prized collection.
New to this year’s invitational are some heavy-hitting participants: F1 demos by McLaren with special appearances by Zak Brown and Mario Andretti plus some of the most innovative, technologically advanced cars in existence like the Czinger 21C Supercar, an AI-designed car 3D-printed in Los Angeles.
Food, wine, and spirit options abound, with participating vendors including Robert Hall, Rabble, Harken, Bernardus, Langtry, Drive Wines, and Anarchy. At the Velocity Invitational, there’s something for everyone at every age, including a playground for the kids.
The Velocity Invitational’s ticket packages offer a wide variety of experiences, from relaxing in air-conditioned hospitality areas to chilling at the event’s exclusive after parties and dinners. Nearby Bernardus Lodge and Spa in Carmel or the InterContinental at The Clement Monterey are ideal lodging options. For families, kids under 15 are free. With Monterey Bay and all its attractions a short drive away, making a weekend of it by camping at the Velocity Invitational is often guests’ preferred itinerary.
This October 14th through 16th, come experience the Velocity Invitational at the Laguna Seca WeatherTech Raceway, a different kind of automobile expo. Compelling racing, unparalleled access to rare and classic cars, and an inclusive approach make the Velocity Invitational not to be missed for racing enthusiasts and novices alike. Secure your tickets today by visiting www.velocityinvitational.com.
“You’re guaranteed to see cars you’ve never seen before, cars that have been in private collections for years,” boasts O’Neill. That’s the big difference at the Velocity Invitational. Not only do families have an inclusive place to learn about racing and classic cars, collectors finally have a safe forum to showcase their prized collection.
New to this year’s invitational are some heavy-hitting participants: F1 demos by McLaren with special appearances by Zak Brown and Mario Andretti plus some of the most innovative, technologically advanced cars in existence like the Czinger 21C Supercar, an AI-designed car 3D-printed in Los Angeles.
Food, wine, and spirit options abound, with participating vendors including Robert Hall, Rabble, Harken, Bernardus, Langtry, Drive Wines, and Anarchy. At the Velocity Invitational, there’s something for everyone at every age, including a playground for the kids.
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buy Tickets
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