Ray Evernham, a NASCAR Hall of Fame crew chief, and Rob Kauffman, a former NASCAR Cup Series team co-owner, have acquired the IROC racing series brand name. IROC is short for International Race Of Champions and is legendary in racing circles.
They have revved IROC back up with a fresh racing series. The inaugural event occurred at Lime Rock Park recently, marking a significant revival of this iconic racing series. Originally, IROC featured 12 identically prepared cars piloted by top drivers from Formula 1 NASCAR, IndyCar, and World Sports Car Racing.
Ray invited YouTube personality Tom Cotter to drive one of these historic cars, a 1974 Camaro with a storied past. This Camaro was driven by racing titans like Benny Parsons, Mario Andretti, James Hunt, and Emerson Fittipaldi.
The car, discovered in New Orleans, remains in its original condition and patina. The event showcased around 20 IROC cars, including Mark Donohue’s and George Follmer’s Porsches replicas. The original Porsches are too valuable to race, legitimizing the allowance of the replicas.
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In The Belly Of The Beast
Driving the 1974 Camaro was a unique and exhilarating experience. The car, heavy and with primitive controls, felt like a time capsule from the past. Its weight and steering required significant effort, making it a true test of driving skill.
The series aims to recapture the spirit of IROC, featuring drivers from various racing disciplines. The event at Lime Rock Park marks the beginning of a new era. Plans call for future races with different cars to determine the best driver across different racing categories.
The revival of IROC is about celebrating the legacy of motorsport and reuniting the best drivers from different backgrounds. The 2024 event at Lime Rock Park was a testament to this vision, with a diverse lineup of cars and drivers. The atmosphere was electric, with fans and participants excited to witness this legendary series’s return.
A Warm Welcome Back To IROC
Ray Abraham and Rob Koffman’s efforts to revive IROC have been met with enthusiasm and support from the racing community. The event featured appearances by original IROC drivers and cars, adding to the authenticity and excitement.
As the series progresses, the focus will be on the core principles of IROC: equal cars, top drivers, and thrilling competition. The return of IROC is your chance to relive the golden era of motorsports. It is an event where the best drivers can compete on a level playing field. This year’s first race was just the beginning, and fans can look forward to more exciting races and memorable moments.
IROC And Roll
The revival of the iconic IROC series is a significant milestone in motorsport. The 2024 event at Lime Rock Park showcased the best of IROC’s past and present. Historic cars and legendary drivers come together for a thrilling competition. As the series moves forward, it promises to deliver more excitement, innovation, and a celebration of the best drivers in the world.
