“The Great American Run will make history by being the largest moving car rally to take place in North America,” Porter explained. “It’s more than just a driving competition, it is a driving adventure. In this meeting of man and machine, physical and mental capabilities will be put to the ultimate test. The reward? An unforgettable event and lifelong bragging rights.”

According to Porter, it doesn’t matter what you drive. “Whether you’re tearing up the pavement in a Lamborghini or Lincoln, Ferrari or Ford, Mini or Maybach, it is not the metal that counts, but the spirit you bring with it. What other event potentially pits an Aston Martin Vantage against a Ford F150, playboys against plumbers, and all with an equal chance of winning? Only The Great American Run.”

Since introducing the event in Europe in 2002, Porter has revved his engine alongside more than 1,000 drivers during the seven events. “Just taking part in an event like this is an achievement. Winning is nothing short of life changing,” Porter pointed out.

So what are the nuts and bolts of The Great American Run? The rally is open to anyone with a valid driver’s license, whether they’re buckling up in a Pinto or a Porsche. The entry fee for the rally is $10,000 per car, which may seem like a pretty hefty chunk of change, but you get a lot of bang for your buck. The entry fee covers hotel accommodations throughout the week-long rally for the driver and their co-pilot – and we’re talking fantastic digs, not roach motels; breakfast and dinner every day; fees for the day at the racetrack; event insurance; luggage transportation; and most significantly, the kick-off party in each of the four cities, the nightly parties and events during the rally and the grand finale celebration in LA. “Of course it goes without saying that you can’t really put a price tag on what could possibly be the most unforgettable adventure of a lifetime. And just imagine if you win the damned thing…” Porter exclaimed.

Speaking of winning, it’s of considerable importance to note that the trophy does not necessarily go to the first team to cross the finish line. Rather, a target time has been set for each stage of the rally (and yes, the times can be achieved without breaking the speed limit), with the winning title will be bestowed upon the driving duo that attains the closest overall time without going over.

Other than the sheer exhilaration of claiming ultimate victory in a challenge such as this, the driver of the winning vehicle will also take home a new 500HP automobile and an entry in the 2008 event to defend their crown.

Obviously The Great American Run is a can’t miss opportunity for any car and rally enthusiast looking for the extreme driving experience. “The Great American Run is not for guys in sweater vests just looking to spin their wheels,” Porter exclaimed. “It is the return to the heart of what the first Cannonball Run was all about – camaraderie, rivalry, and the thrill of the chase. You could say it is the supreme joyride.” If you think you have what it takes to participate in this battle on the blacktop, then get out from under your hood for a minute and check out more event details, as well as how to enter, at www.thegreatamericanrun.com. You can also call 1-800-619-8593 for further details. We’ll see you at the starting line.

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