With over 33 editions, the Safenwil Oldtimer Grand Prix is already a classic in its own right. However, this does not detract from the event itself, on the contrary. Both the visitors and the participating drivers were welcomed to Safenwil with experienced organization, a little improvisation and a great deal of passion.
Meanwhile, the speaker duo of Daniel Mauerhofer and Salar Bahrampoori were at home in two different areas: Dani Mauerhofer with the cars and motorcycles, Bahrampoori with the snappy banter.
Compact and close to the people
Once again, Safenwil was able to surprise with a wide range of vehicles. The event has no elitist appearance whatsoever. VIP areas and the like are nowhere to be found, the proximity to the spectators is the concept.
And the colorful chaos in the paddock alone ensures that a lively exchange is possible. What also sets this meeting apart from many similar ones is the opportunity to see the cars in action, even if the route is little more than a drive around various buildings.
That's okay, though, because instead of lengthy start-up times and lots of complicated maneuvering in and out of parking spaces, the whole thing is relatively simple. What's more, every driver may have been thankful that nobody had to stand in a row with the engine running for too long in the heat. And of course this gives the spectators the opportunity to reach various corners within a short distance. The background noise was also just right.
Rallies
Anyone who wanted to treat themselves and their classic bike to a longer ride could go on a rally. The routes for the southern group led to the Lucerne hinterland to Willisau and back via Langenthal. For the North group, the ride led into the Aargau Jura via Salhöhe to Fricktal, over the Bötzberg and back to Safenwil. The West group made its way through the Klus near Balsthal and via Mümliswil to Diegten and back over the Hauenstein. And the east group turned towards Reiden before crossing the hills of the foothills of the Alps to reach Lake Hallwil. This was before the group headed back towards Unterkulm and Schöftland towards Safenwil.
Meanwhile, four laps were planned for the groups on the "race track" around the Occasions- und Technikcenter in Safenwil - of course, this was purely for show. The cars were joined here by the motorcycles.
A fine tradition
The Oldtimer Grand Prix in Safenwil may be a few years old, but there are few places that offer as much substance as here. In addition to the events on the tracks and in the paddock, the museum on the other side of the highway and railroad line also beckons. This year, the permanent exhibition will be supplemented by the theme "100 years of motor vehicles in Graubünden".
An English double-decker bus was available as a connection to the Emil Frey Classic Center. This may have been one of the reasons why many young and very young vintage car enthusiasts could be seen in Safenwil - the best prerequisite for celebrating the 66th edition of the GP in the distant future - who knows?
