On The Grid Archives - International Motor Racing Research Center

New on the grid! The 1973 BMW 2002 currently owned by Bennie Bish from Whitney Point, NY. It has raced in the SCCA E Production class. Bennie purchased the car from Marc Feinstein in Boston. Stop in any time to take a look! We’re open 9-5 during the week, with special hours this Saturday, May 20th, 10-4 for our Center Conversation.

The staff of the IMRRC is honored to have Michael Argetsinger’s Elden Mk10B on the floor of our visitor’s center. Michael championed this Elden in 1973 on some of the most legendary circuits in Europe, as well as some airport circuits on USAF bases.

Michael sold the Elden in the winter of 1973. In a fortuitous set of circumstances, it was found and restored by Rick Dresang in 2019, and made its way for a visit to the Center this winter.

The International Motor Racing Research Center will help support New York State’s “Path Through History” weekend this Saturday, October 9th. Visitors to the Center will experience “A Lap Back to the Past.” On display is a 1967 Lotus Formula Ford – the car that launched the careers of many engineers, technicians, and a long list of famous drivers. Check out the short film “25 Years At Speed” to learn how and why Watkins Glen is known as the “Birthplace of American Road Racing.” The Center is all about preserving the history of racing. Add us to your list and take a step back in time. Saturday hours will be from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and admission is free.

In honor of Peter Argetsinger, race driver, racing coach, and IMRRC Governing Council member, we have Peter’s 1955 MG-TF sports car on display here at the Center. He purchased the car in 1967 for $200. It was his principal mode of transport through his college and early married years, remaining a treasured friend and favorite ride throughout his life. Pete and his wife Sjoukje had many adventures in the stylish but (of course) temperamental British racing-green roadster.

Pete Argetsinger, co-driver of the Polimotor Lola T-616 powered by the world’s first plastic racing engine. Argetsinger, returning to the United States after 10 years of racing and living in Europe, has raced Formula Fords, sedans, and Formula 3 in Europe. He won the British Kentagon Formula Ford Championship in 1980.

These adventures included a harrowing trip through the eye of Hurricane Agnes in 1972 and Christmas-time trips to upstate New York with only side curtains to fend off the ice and cold. Peter sadly died last week at his home in Watkins Glen.

We are thrilled to host his beloved MG as a memorial to his extraordinary personality and remarkable talent.

On the Grid: 1973 BMW 2002