There is a new show in town, the Racer’s Expo, and it is a sure bet to be of interest to motorsports fans, drivers or crew members already in racing, and especially to anyone thinking about getting involved in the sport. Literally featuring something of interest for everyone, but focusing on amateur racing, the Racer’s Expo will be held at the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno, Nevada, from November 14 through 16.
The Racer’s Expo will cover all forms of motorsports, from stock cars to open wheel, drag racers, road racing and even purpose-built speed machines like you would see on the Bonneville Salt Flats.
There will be more than 500 exhibits covering everything from tires to springs to cams to engines to go-karts and more, even information about how to get involved in virtually all forms of motorsports directly from the sanctioning bodies. If it has to do with going fast, then it will be on display at the Racer’s Expo. And if you enjoy looking at race cars up close, there will be dozens on display representing all types of motorsports, as well as different eras, so you can see how the sport has evolved over the years from both a technological and safety standpoint.
A variety of seminars are planned from leading industry experts on different topics; some of those already scheduled include “Speed Secrets” by Ross Bentley, “The Value of Simulators to the Race Driver” by Tom Pabst, and “Gaining Car/Team Sponsorship Pro and Amateur” by Media Fit. A myriad of other topics will be announced as the event draws near, including presentations geared towards those on the outside and confused about how to begin their path into motorsports.
Looking for more than just exhibits and seminars? An autocross course will be setup in the parking lot of Grand Sierra Resort where attendees can get firsthand knowledge with some of the products and the sport of autocross, or head down the road to Reno-Fernley Raceway for additional demonstrations such as the Griggs Racing GR40 Track Toy or maybe even SCCA’s latest Spec Racer.
One of the most memorable events of the Racer’s Expo will be the “Evening with a Legend,” planned for Saturday, November 15. This is a rare opportunity to enjoy dinner alongside one of the greatest names in racing, hear some “behind the scenes” stories, and maybe even watch some amazing historical film footage from the good ‘ole days. Watch for the announcement about which racing legend will be the featured speaker, guaranteed to be someone you will want to listen to. “Evening with a Legend” is a benefit event for the “Wounded Warriors” or other charity.
The Racer’s Expo is the brainchild of Miki Cohen who founded the Western States Horse Expo, the largest event in the United States for the equine world. Now celebrating its tenth anniversary, more than 60,000 people now attend that show annually. Cohen, an amateur SCCA club racer, is now trading one type of horsepower for another – the mechanical kind.
“I guess you could say I am the ultimate horsepower junky,” said Cohen with a laugh. “I have always loved horses, but when Ford released the updated Mustang in 2005 I fell in love with a different type of pony. Now I race a Ford Mustang and have gotten very passionate about motorsports. I looked around and didn’t really see any other shows that met the expectations that I wanted for the Racer’s Expo in terms of what it offered to those already involved in the sport, as well as those looking at how to get into racing.
“We have learned a lot about how to properly run a consumer show with ten years of experience managing the Western States Horse Expo. That has set the gold standard for horse events. I intend to make the Racer’s Expo every bit the gold standard in the motorsports community as well. The Racer’s Expo will be a unique, compelling, inspiring and educational event for everyone interested in racing,” added Cohen.
Reno is an ideal location for the Racer’s Expo as it too offers something for everyone. When not at the show, adults can enjoy world-class dining, nightlife and shows, not to mention trying their luck at the casinos. Kids can partake in mini-golf, go-kart racing, bowling and movies all on-site at the Grand Sierra Resort, making this a family vacation opportunity.
The Grand Sierra Resort is offering a discount on reservations made prior to October 1. Call 800-648-5080 and ask for the “Racer’s Expo discount.”
For more information on the Racer’s Expo, visit online at http://www.RacersExpo.com or telephone (800) 352-2411 or (530) 295-1424. Interested exhibitors can also call the Racer’s Expo offices for more details on how to reserve their space.
Apr 16