F1 Viewing Party

at the Hagerty F1 Viewing Party

Written by AJ Moffitt, Staff Writer Andrew Moffitt, Event Photography

On Sunday, May 8th, not only did many members of the PCA Gold Coast Region celebrate their mothers, but they also took time out to celebrate the organized automotive race competition of some of the fastest cars – Formula One, also known as F1. The Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, has been the traditional American home for F1 racing since 2012, except for 2020, when COVID-19 caused a cancellation of the race. Beginning this year in 2022, the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino held its inaugural race to start its 10-year deal with Formula One. Undoubtedly, members of PCA are among the most excited to have this race taking place so close to our backyards.

Because some tickets were pricey, it’s no wonder that many F1 fans opted to celebrate race day amongst their peers instead of at the Hard Rock. PCA arranged for a viewing party at Hagerty Garage + Social, located in Delray Beach, where 75 members and friends of the club were able to enjoy the race from the cool comfort of the facility. Hagerty Facility Manager Travis Hanna and his staff were accommodating and gracious at the event. They set up various comfortable seating areas throughout the building where people could mingle or view the race on one of the dozen-plus screens.

Upon arrival at Hagerty, attendees signed in and were given checkered flag wristbands to allow them entry. Though checkered flags typically signify the end of a race, these wristbands were quite the opposite as they indicated the beginning of a great time. Those who registered for the car show lined up their Porches on the West side of the parking lot while nonparticipants parked on the East. After parking, all attendees went into the Hagerty building, where Travis led three separate tours of the facility.

With a building of 50,000 square feet that can withstand a category 5 storm, Hagerty is filling up quickly. Don’t worry, because they are working on enlarging the number of cars they can hold. “Currently, we have approximately 130 cars on the property,” explained Travis, “We’re excited that we have lifts ordered that will enable us to hold an inventory of about 190 to 200 vehicles.” Cars currently being housed at Hagerty’s include an array of antique Dodges and Plymouths but also house Maclaren’s, Paganis, Ferraris, Rolls Royces, and Bentleys. But let’s not forget all of the beautiful Porsches!

One Porsche, in particular, really stood out – the 1979 Porsche 928 from Risky Business that recently sold for $1.98 million at auction.

Hagerty’s has some exciting news to share. Their newest facility, located at 355 NE 71st St. in Miami, FL, is opening this month! Now you’ll have multiple

locations to choose from for storing your precious automobiles and for their wide array of social gatherings.

During the viewing party, Hagerty catered lunch with an assortment of scrumptious subs, fruits, and cheeses, and members were encouraged to go outside to vote for the People’s Choice award. First place went to Joseph “Joe” Solomito and his gorgeous, red 1967 912 with houndstooth seats. Hagerty’s graciously had him select a cap and a t-shirt as his prize for winning.

Second place went to Patricia and Bob Walter for their 1990 944 S2, and third place was awarded to Steve and Dottie Kidd, who also were the hosts of the event, with their 1989 944 S2. Another highlight of the day was the Peach Bellini’s that were provided to all female attendees as an ode to Mother’s Day. Let’s not forget to mention the raffle for a beautiful orchid that was won by Ann Marie, a guest of member Thurston King.

All told, it was a glorious day at a great facility, and PCA looks forward to additional events at Hagerty Garage + Social.