This is my seventh Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale auction and I consider it a privilege that I get to be here. A visit here is a bucket list item for gearheads, and I am very fortunate that I can attend, report on the happenings and just take it all in. Even after my numerous press assignment here I am still in awe about the scale of the event, the collector cars from every era and genre, and just the overall feeling of community. This place has a positive energy and a sense of welcome that is rare. I can’t remember how many random conversations I’ve had with total strangers while checking out the cars over the years, and I cherish them all.
Opening Day for the Scottsdale auction is a family affair and children 12 and under get in free. No vehicles are up for auction today, it’s an opportunity to walk the grounds at Westworld of Scottsdale, take it all in, and remember why we love cars. The events scheduled for today are for the community. The Boy Scouts are here for a Pinewood Derby competition, STEMFest is here to show the next generation the importance of science and technology, but a sobering event that restores one’s faith in humanity was this morning.
The Driven Project is a wonderful organization that gives some great kids a chance to be chauffeured in super cars around town and across the auction stage on Saturday morning. They have a simple mission and achieve it with love and compassion for kids facing the toughest and most debilitating obstacles:
Supercar Therapy. That’s what this is all about.
We provide incredible opportunities and experiences for kids who are battling critical and chronic illnesses across North America.
Our goal is to provide every single one of our VIP’s (Very Important Passengers) with the ride of their life.
Our co-pilots always get the royal treatment. They are chauffeured around the city in an amazing supercar, escorted by the police, and supported by our experienced team of volunteers.
Combine all of those things together and you have the recipe for a dream come true – Driven Project
I got choked up during The Driven Project and I can’t imagine I’m the only one here who didn’t fight back tears. Those kids are the brave ones and their family’s have more strength than I can imagine.
Organizations like The Driven Project make me feel proud that our gearhead community can come together to help those that have some of the greatest struggles imaginable. Loving your community and offering help is a simple notion and I was reminded of that on Saturday morning.
looking forVWpickup
WAS AT AUCTION SUNDAY AND MONDAY,
HAD GOOD TIME.