John Fitch: Fighter Pilot to Road Racer
About this Event
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 Facebook 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.
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Admission: Included with museum entry ($12-15). Free for members and children under 18. Tickets available at the door or online.
No advance registration required.
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Event Highlights:
- Live Demonstrations
- Historical Insights
- Q&A Session
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Agenda
🕑: 10:00 AM
Museum Opens
Info: Simeone Museum doors open to the public.
🕑: 11:00 AM - 11:50 PM
Discussion : Were the glory days really the best era of racing?
Info: With Simeone Museum Director of Programs Harry Hurst, Automotive Expert George Levy and former Race Car Driver George Wintersteen.
🕑: 12:00 PM - 12:30 PM
Demo Day Presentation
Info: Visual presentation highlighting rare photos and videos from the Simeone Museum Library and Archives with Simeone Museum staff and industry experts.
🕑: 12:30 PM - 01:00 PM
Spirited driving demonstration of Demo Day cars
Info: Demo Day cars are demonstrated with a spirited driving program taking place on our 3 acre outdoor tarmac.
🕑: 01:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Photo Session / Q and A
Info: Visitors are able to inspect and photograph Demo Day cars up close while engaging in a question and answer session with Simeone Museum staff and volunteers.
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 0.00 to USD 17.85
