08/24/2026
John Fitch: Fighter Pilot to Road Racer
Saturday, September 19, 2026
Few figures in American motorsport lived a life quite like John Fitch. A World War II fighter pilot turned international racing driver, Fitch brought the discipline, courage, and precision of the cockpit to some of the world’s greatest road races.
For this Demo Day, we’ll explore Fitch’s remarkable racing career and his connections to Cunningham, Mercedes-Benz, and the golden age of international sports car racing.
Special Pre-Show Program: Were the Glory Days of Racing Really the Best Ever?
11:00–11:50 AM
Before our John Fitch: Fighter Pilot to Road Racer Demo Day, join acclaimed motorsports author George Levy for a special conversation celebrating his new book, Motorsports Mavericks.
Inspired by Harry Hurst’s popular Glory Days of Racing page, Levy’s book pairs the remarkable photography of Pete Biro with new stories from some of racing’s greatest personalities, including Mario Andretti, Jackie Stewart, Richard Petty, Hurley Haywood, Peter Brock, Sam Posey, Brian Redman, and more.
Levy will be joined by Harry Hurst and racer George Wintersteen to discuss the people, stories, and personalities that made the 1960s and ’70s such an unforgettable era in motorsports.
The discussion will ask a simple question: Were the glory days really the best era of racing? The audience will also have an opportunity to share their own memories and questions.
George Levy will sign copies of Motorsports Mavericks following the program. Books will be available for $50.
Featured Demo Day Cars
1952 Frazer Nash Le Mans Replica
1952 Cunningham C-4R Roadster
1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Coupe
1956 Maserati 300S
1958 Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa
Schedule
11:00–11:50 AM – Were the Glory Days of Racing Really the Best Ever?
12:00 PM – John Fitch: Fighter Pilot to Road Racer presentation
Approximately 12:30 PM – Driving demonstration on the museum’s 3-acre tarmac
Join us for a day celebrating two remarkable chapters in racing history, from the personalities and stories of the Glory Days to the extraordinary life and career of John Fitch.
George Levy talks racing’s Glory Days before our John Fitch Demo Day, featuring legendary cars and live driving on the tarmac.