Lime Rock Park is set to kick off its 67th season this month as the Connecticut circuit welcomes back the roar of American horsepower for the Trans Am Memorial Day Classic (May 24-27).
Beyond the anticipation of high-speed thrills lies a dual celebration on Saturday, May 25, marking a moment in The Park’s history that has been decades in the making. As part of Lime Rock Park’s ‘Year of Skip Barber’ festivities, racing legend Skip Barber will see his name carry even more significance in the sport as the track will dedicate the Timing & Scoring Tower in his name, ensuring that his legacy is immortalized in both action and monument at Lime Rock Park. Barber will also serve as the Grand Marshal for the Trans Am Memorial Day Classic.
The dedication ceremony will take place on the Sam Posey Straight during pre-race ceremonies on Saturday. Directly after, Barber will fulfill his duties as Grand Marshal by giving the start command for the highly competitive Trans Am CUBE 3 Architecture TA2 Series.
“The unveiling of the Skip Barber Tower stands as a testament to Skip Barber’s enduring legacy in motorsports,” said Lime Rock Park CEO Dicky Riegel. “While Skip’s’ role as Grand Marshal adds prestige to the event, it’s the dedication of the Timing & Scoring tower to him that truly captures the essence of his legacy at Lime Rock Park. The decision to name the tower after Skip is more than just a tribute, it’s a celebration of his lifelong commitment to the sport and to The Park. For decades, Skip has been a guiding force, instilling a passion for racing in countless individuals and leaving an indelible mark on the racing community. Now the Skip Barber name will live on in perpetuity, ensuring that he continues to overlook Lime Rock Park for decades to come.”
Barber’s journey in racing began long before he became a household name. From his early days as a competitive racer to his later years as a respected mentor, his career has been defined by a relentless pursuit of greatness. His eponymous Skip Barber Racing School, founded in 1975, became a mecca for aspiring racers, providing them with the tools and knowledge needed to succeed on and off the track.
As a versatile driver, Barber had a brief racing history in the Trans Am Series. Barber competed in three career races, scoring a pair of top-five finishes in the over 2-Liter category in 1966 and 1968, and had one additional Trans Am start in 1974.
Lime Rock Park named 2024 as “The Year of Skip Barber” and will pay tribute to Barber’s contributions to motorsport and Lime Rock Park through special events, exhibitions and commemorative merchandise throughout the season.