Governor Ned Lamont, Senator Richard Blumenthal and State Representative Maria Horn present proclamations to Skip Barber during Historic Festival 42

The second day of the Historic Festival 42 at Lime Rock Park was graced by ideal racing conditions as the rain held off, creating a perfect backdrop for an unforgettable day of vintage motorsport action and celebration.

The conditions were also perfect to celebrate a momentous occasion, as August 31st was officially declared “Skip Barber Day” in the state of Connecticut.

Amidst the roar of classic engines and the buzz of excited spectators,  Governor Ned Lamont,  Senator Richard Blumenthal and State Representative Maria Horn took to Sam Posey Straight to honor Skip Barber with proclamations recognizing his contributions to motorsports and the local community. The day marked a significant milestone in the “Year of Skip Barber” celebration, paying tribute to his lasting impact on the world of racing.

“Skip Barber is not only a great race car driver and extraordinary entrepreneur, but also an extremely good man,” said Senator Blumenthal. “Lime Rock Park is one of the most special places in the world, and today I, as the Governor of Connecticut, declare August 31st as Skip Barber Day.”

Senator Blumenthal echoed these sentiments, emphasizing Barber’s dual legacy as both a skilled driver and a visionary entrepreneur who has shaped the future of motorsports.

“I’ve come to Lime Rock Park in the past years, but today is particularly special as we honor a man who has given so much of himself over so many years,” declared Blumenthal. “Lime Rock Park is a treasure, it is a gem, it’s a national institution, one of the oldest road courses in the United States of America and the best race track in the United States. But it is more than just cars, and a race track, it’s a park. It’s beauty, it’s exquisite value as a destination that we celebrate today through this great man, Skip Barber. In addition to all he’s done, he’s taught a lot of people how to drive, and drive better!

“Skip, on a personal level, your friendship means so much to me and my wife Cynthia, and we celebrate you today with a certificate of special recognition from the Senate of the United States,” continued Blumenthal. “You should know that it was approved by an overwhelming bipartisan majority, and that doesn’t happen much these days! Congratulations, Skip.”

State Representative Horn also issued a proclamation to honor Barber from the Connecticut State Legislature.

“It’s truly humbling to be recognized in this way,” said Barber, visibly moved by the proclamation. “Lime Rock Park has always been a special place for me, not just as a driver but as someone who believes in the power of motorsport to bring people together. I’m grateful to the state of Connecticut and to everyone who has been part of this journey.”

The proclamation ceremony took place against a backdrop of exhilarating on-track action, with vintage race cars from various eras tearing through the twists and turns of Lime Rock Park. Attendees were treated to a spectacular display of speed and skill, with everything from historic Formula Fords to classic GT cars roaring by, including the newest group, the Toyo Tires Turn of the Century World Challenge.

The Historic Festival 42 celebrations continue on Sunday with the Lime Rock Concours and Gathering of the Marques that will display nearly 1,000 enthusiast cars and motorcycles arranged around the Lime Rock circuit for Sunday in The Park. The show is rain or shine and gates open for spectators at 10 a.m. Eastern. Monday will close out the event, featuring non-stop, on-track competition across a diverse set of historic racing classes. For more information, visit https://limerock.com/events/historic-festival-42/