In 2019, I was fortunate enough to photograph the inaugural Chattanooga Motorcar Festival, and it immediately became one of my favorite events of the year. It was spectacular - so many rare and beautiful cars, actual RACING happening in one of the most iconic locations in the city, and people came from all over the United States to check out what was going on.
Nothing like a 911 wrapped in your hometown’s livery.
Year 2 (2020) was unfortunately canceled due to the pandemic - but we returned strong in 2021.
Attendance grew thanks to humanity’s collective desperation after the lockdown to get out of our houses, and the roster of cars became even greater. Some incredibly special Ferrari examples were there:
There was even more racing, and a dedicated track was built next to the river:
Which finally brings us to 2022. Year 3 brought with it a ~2.5 mile track laid out all over downtown and the industrial sector of Chattanooga. And some of my favorite photos to date.
Anyone who loves cars knows that they're more than the sum of their parts.
These miracles of plastic, steel, rubber, and glass somehow manage to stir the heartstrings of millions; a people group who all share a singular love.
This love is hard to explain to others - how can we attach ourselves so concretely to these machines, what is it about them that brings us joy when we hear the throttle open, or see pop up headlights in the distance?
Car enthusiasts are incredibly diverse - the cult of cars knows no restriction.
It doesn't matter what you're into, either. American Muscle, Japanese Imports, Exotics; there is a mutual respect between all when the community is at its best. There is limitless self expression to be found in cars, and builds and beaters alike become extensions of the person behind the wheel. It's an overwhelming sensory experience; hearing the motor rumble, smelling the exhaust, gripping the steering wheel tightly, watching the miles go by.
There's just something about these things that feels like greeting an old friend whenever you happen to cross paths. And most importantly; no matter who you are, what you believe, or where you're from; there's a place for you in the driver's seat.