Monterey Historic Races

Monterey Historic Races

The first running of the Monterey Historic Races

The first running of the Monterey Historic Races

The Monterey Historic Races have been around since 1974, but over those 36 years it has had only a handful of sponsors: Chrysler and Toyota (both gone now) and Rolex, since 2006. But a re-alignment of the Rolex deal this year has led to a new name for the event: the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion.

Purists and old-timers may scoff at the new name, just like the name of Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca--where the event is held each year--is often shorn of its corporate sponsorship. Nevertheless, the event will soldier on, showcasing the best of bygone racing cars in their native environment.

Other traditions of the historic races will continue as well. Since 1975, the race has featured on honored marque--Alfa Romeo, Porsche and Ferrari being notable repeat honorees. This year's honoree will be announced, along with a new logo, in the next several weeks.

The Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion will run this year from August 12-15, alongside the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. Over 400 cars will compete across 14 historic race groups, with featured groups this year being Formula 1, Trans-Am, and stock cars. Also at the event will be a Bugatti Grand Prix, hosted by the Bugatti Club of America, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year.

[Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca]