Maine's Capital Area

History was made in Downtown Gardiner, ME, on Sunday, June 30, as the convoy of classic cars crossed The Great Race finish line. A total of 135 antique and classic cars, eight of which were from Maine, had entered to participate in the nine-day, 2,300-mile race from Owensboro, KY.

This wasn’t the first time Gardiner, ME, had been involved in the race. In 2018, Gardiner was only a stop along the journey. The vintage cars had brought flocks of fanatics, families, friends, and beyond to the Gardiner area. Businesses had welcomed the hustle and bustle with open arms and exciting activities. In June, Freeport and Owls Head were also stops along the stretch to the finish line.

The Great Race isn't your traditional speed race, however. The competition is an annual time/distance rally featuring classic and antique vehicles that follow a set course without navigational aids except for a packet prepared by race organizers. On June 30, participants departed from Augusta hotels and arrived in Historic Downtown Gardiner that afternoon. From 1 – 5 PM, businesses once again welcomed attendees, volunteers, families, and participants. Area restaurants, retail shops, and the region eagerly welcomed everyone to Gardiner with activities including arts, theater, music, and more for what was sure to be an exciting event.

Major sponsors of The Great Race - Gardiner Finish included Everett J. Prescott, Inc. (Team EJP), Kennebec Valley Chamber of Commerce, Pine State Trading, G&E Roofing, Charlie’s Family of Dealerships, PEP Classic Car Company, Cianbro, City of Gardiner, Cross Insurance, Chapman Trucking, Kennebec Savings Bank, Central Maine Pyrotechnics, and Frank, Anne, and Frank Crooker Jr.

To learn more about The Great Race, its history, routes, rules, and more, visit The Great Race website.

2018 Gardiner, Maine Stop

In 2018 The Kennebec Valley Chamber of Commerce were proud to have played as host city for the race participants and event goers organizing the logistics for both meals, entertainment, and lodging, which earned the city of Gardiner the title of Best Overnight Stop!