My first thought while writing this first column for the Maine Vintage Race Car Association is one that perhaps those who are wiser than myself can learn from. I have waited way too long to become involved with the MVCRA. I’m not quite sure why that was. I was definitely aware of this organization, and I have respected the history that it preserves and presents to race fans. I’ve toured the mobile museum at events like the annual Northeast Motorsports Expo in Augusta. I even have a number of friends and peers involved with this organization. Somehow though, I still managed to take the MVCRA for granted. That was a mistake on several levels. The most obvious is that without the efforts of those who are active in the MVCRA, the organization would cease to exist. The stories that are told and the historic items that are displayed would go into storage. History would not be as easily passed down. Some of that history might even be lost forever. That wouldn’t just be a shame. It would be a travesty.

Another thing is that being involved with the MVCRA is rewarding and fun. Meetings are held once a month in Gray or by Zoom call and I’ll tell you that any time when you can spend one hour among dedicated racing people is time well spent. Yes, we all do work for the organization, but the time spent being around great people with a common interest and hearing some of the
stories to be told is priceless.

The MVRCA isn’t just about meetings though. The mobile museum goes on the road to several tracks and events throughout the year. At each event, volunteers are needed to staff the exhibit. This is a very important task, but also an enjoyable one. Tradesfolk are also needed for the MVRCA. The traveling museum needs some improvements and service. Those who are handy with a wrench, hammer or wire cutters can help keep it in tip top condition.

I happen to be decent with arranging words, so I’ll try to put that skill to good use. In the coming months and beyond, I plan on writing a few columns for the MVCRA website. I look forward to any time that I can bench race and I know this is going to be a fun project. I’m glad that I finally took the plunge to become involved with the MVRCA and I completely recommend that you do the same if you love racing, the history of the sport and enjoy the people who are a part of it. What are you waiting for?