Classic Days IV: Ponies in the Countryside

The eastern racing circuit of Nevers Magny-Cours, located just 160 miles from Paris, France, has been the home to Formula 1's French Grand Prix, among many other top-level racing events. It has also played host to a number of car show events, including Classic Days. 2011 marked the fourth annual Classic Days celebration, which brings in more than 1,000 cars of all types from pre-war Bugattis to brand-new grand touring coupes. The event also represents one of the largest Ford and Mustang gatherings around, and the yearly event has already established a reputation for providing an exciting mix between track action, club meetings, rally in the countryside and closeness among car lovers coming from all over France.

"It's a friendly, well organized meeting where we can show our cars, promote our club, and also make laps on a famous racetrack—a good way to test the car before the beginning of the championship," says Ernest Gilger, President of the Swiss association American Car Racing Team. "We came with a '72 Mustang Mach 1, a '79 Mustang Pace Car, and a Boss 302. People come and ask us questions how and where we bought cars, why this one more than another; they want to know details, if we modified something, etc. It's so friendly and sunny."

French clubs also came to Classic Days IV, with some members of the Ford Mustang and Shelby Club of France planning the weekend in Burgundy, France, after a 160-mile road trip from Paris.

"We have our club event, which takes place on Independence Day every year next to Paris, but it's very important for us to meet other Mustang owners or American GT lovers," said club founder and racing driver Rick Dallas. "Many great cars came this year and we're glad to be there this year with a '68 390 GT convertible, a '69 SportsRoof, and a few other cars. We want to keep alive the racing spirit of Ford when cars with a Blue Oval logo or a Pony were racing and winning worldwide. Nothing to win, we are here for fun with our cars."

On Saturday night, all participants were invited to take part in the traditional parade, and more than 500 enthusiasts took to the road. Event organizers have already scheduled the next Classic Days event for April 28-29, 2012. If you happen to be in the neighborhood, or are planning a trip abroad, it could be your very next tourist destination.

"We want to keep alive the racing spirit of Ford when cars with a Blue Oval logo or a Pony were racing and winning worldwide. Nothing to win, we are here for fun with our cars."