Hi Robert,
On two previous occasions I posted suggestions for the GT40's 40th anniversary at the Nurburgring over the week-end of May 29 and 30, 2004.
The dates would have been most appropriate as the GT40 was raced for the first time in the 1000 kms at the 'Ring on May 31, 1964. I was privileged to have been there on that auspicious occasion.
A German member reminded me that the F1 European Grand Prix was to be held over that week-end which blew those dates away. However, a free week-end close that date, either in May or June would still have been OK. I believe a big classic event is planned for July and that would also be OK.
I even went as far as to e-mail Ford Vice-President Sir Nicholas (Nick) Scheele with the proposal (January 5, 2004). IMHO it would have been a brilliant marketing exercise for Ford. I say would have been as no mention of such a re-union has ever been made unless Ford is springing a last minute surprise.
My idea was to invite as many of the previous GT40 and MK1V drivers as possible as well as many original cars as possible. It would also have presented Ford with an ideal opportunity of bringing along a few of the new GTs for a track day. It would have given many of the 'GT40 Old Boys' an opportunity to drive the new car over the original Nordschleife.
Just think what an amazing gathering it could have been with Dan Gurney, AJ Foyt, Chris Amon, Jacky Ickx, Jackie Oliver, Lucien Bianchi, Jackie Stewart, John Whitmore, David Hobbs and several others under the same roof after all these years. One of course accepts the fact that due to business commitments and time constraints not all could be present.
Think also of a magnificent group photo with the old drivers and Bill Ford and Ford top brass posing with an original GT40 and the new GT both in Gulf colours. This would have been a once in a life time opportunity never to be repeated. The photo could have been used in Ford advertising right round the world.
Suggested programme as follows:
Friday evening: A get to know you again, down memory lane cocktail party.
Saturday: Breakfast
Display of cars and track day
Lunch
Display of cars and track day
Gala dinner with caberet
Sunday Breakfast
Free day for old friends and new found friends to do their own thing.
Again IMHO if Ford doesn't act it'll be a unique and wonderful opportunity lost forever.
I also accept that the giant corporates have their own agendas and reasons for doing things but here's still hoping that they'll pull something out of the hat at the last minute even if it's a demonstration run before the European Grand Prix.
Yours hopefully,
Andre 40
