FW: students doing F1 oral histories for IMRRC

[Casey]

This might interest some of you.

 

Subject: students doing F1 oral histories for IMRRC

 

 

High School Students Preserving Formula One Stories

 

 

Watkins Glen was the home to the U.S. Grand Prix Formula One race for 20 years, and a lot of people have a lot of stories to tell from that historic era.

As part of its year-long celebration of the 50th anniversary of the first Formula One race at Watkins Glen, the International Motor Racing Research Center is teaming up with local students to make sure the stories of the Formula One days are not lost.

Starting March 1, students in history classes and video production classes at Watkins Glen High School will be interviewing people about their Formula One memories and experiences. The filmed interviews will be presented at a public gathering sometime in late spring or early summer and then will become part of the permanent collection at the Racing Research Center.

“With this project, the students will capture and appreciate the tradition and history of motor racing and its impact on the community in which they live,” Center Director of Administration Max Neal said.

Anyone who had an unusual and memorable experience related to the Formula One races - anyone who has a story to tell - is invited to participate. Experiences can be as simple as a chance meeting with a driver or as complex as hosting visiting fans in their homes.

The Racing Research Center and the students are especially interested in speaking with people who had jobs at the track during Formula One weekends, which began with the first race on Oct. 8, 1961. The final U.S. Grand Prix at Watkins Glen was on Oct. 5, 1980.

Interviews will be conducted at the high school, primarily during afternoon hours. Special arrangements may be made when necessary.

To participate, contact Neal at the Racing Research Center at (607) 535-9044. She will schedule the appointment with an available student.