International. It is a big word defining a simple concept.

The concept of auto racing is simple but also bigger than the word.

Two events, both in Virginia, celebrate in two separate ways the term “international” in spirit and location.

The first, merely days away, is at Virginia International Raceway. The Heacock Classic Gold Cup Historic Races & Car Show is the melding of the concepts of auto racing and international. Classic cars from around the world on display as stationary works of art and on the track as a clash of history and speed.

Morgan to Mustang. Porsche to Pontiac. Alfa to Zephyr. Who knows what will show up but past events have proven a parade of power and passion.

The car show is color and class. The races are epic. When will you see a classic 60’s DB9 on course and side by side with a Boss Mustang, a Morgan or a Jag XKE…? You can at the Heacock Classic rolling through Virginia International Raceway.

The event is coming this weekend (October 5-6-7)

Mark your calendar a couple of weeks later as well. The Richmond International Raceway, known for NASCAR and the “Chase”, is host to an event that also boasts a car show. The Central Virginia Celtic Festival & Highland Games comes to the grounds of RIR October 20-21. Kilts, cabers and cars…

The car part involves a classic British auto and motor show. Imagine the beauty and lines of British style showcased with Jag, Aston Martin, Morgan, Triumph, BSA, Norton and more…

There is more. Traditional Scottish Highland Games, Clan gatherings, music and dance, proper beer… Everything you need to keep your kilt up.

Beyond the classic cars, bikes and games, the music is a tour for the senses. All the bands and competitors put on a great show but a highlight are the celtic rockers “Seven Nations“. The term “international” fits them as well. Their name and their tours have spanned the continents. Their sound is a mix of traditional Scottish and Celtic music merged with modern rhythms. Bagpipes and fiddles with electric guitar and bass belting out a Scottish or Irish reel…  That is the sound of “Seven Nations”.

7N is one of many. All good, all colrfull, all there for a good time with one and all.

Don’t worry, you don’t have to eat the haggis…. But please pronounce “Celtic” correctly. Those goofs in Boston should know better… We have no idea what a “seltic” is…

The Central Virginia Celtic Festival & Highland Games is at the Richmond International Raceway on October 20th & 21st.

The Heacock Classic Gold Cup Historic Races & Car Show is at Virginia International Raceway on October 5th, 6th & 7th.

Don’t confuse the locations or dates but make both if you can!