If you’re in the Corvette community, chances are that you already know the popularity of Corvettes at Carlisle. It’s one of the largest, if not the largest, and most significant Corvette-centric events to ever exist – bringing together fans of America’s favorite sports car from all walks of life. It’s the kind of event truly passionate enthusiasts greatly appreciate – whether a historian or the drastic opposite.

The highly anticipated event will mark special significance this year, as it pays tribute to the late Reeves Callaway, founder of Callaway Cars. Taking place next month, August 24th-26th at the Carlisle, PA, fairgrounds, the event will commemorate Reeves’ contributions to the automotive world and his lasting legacy.

Since its inception back in ’82, Corvettes at Carlisle has drawn the top names and greatest minds in the industry, including (but not limited to) Zora Duntov, Wil Cooksey, Ken Lingenfelter, Tadge Juechter, and Reeves Callaway. Tragically, Reeves’ name has jumped to the top of the honors list with his recent passing earlier this month. 

Callaway Cars, known for their high-performance packages for a number of vehicles, made their mark on the automotive world through their work specifically on the Chevrolet Corvette. Some of the most popular of their builds include three Callaway Corvettes linked to the esteemed 24 Hours of LeMans – which will be together for the first time ever to be displayed as a tribute to the man and the mind of Reeves Callaway.

The trio includes the 1997 Callaway C7R in silver, the 2001 Callaway C12R in red, white, and blue, and the 1994 Callaway LM #001 in silver. 

The C7R was offered in a limited production series of only two. This one was prepped for LeMans but failed to qualify. The ’01 C12R led its class when it competed back in 2001 but ultimately logged a DNF due to an engine issue. This year’s visit to Carlisle marks its first time ever in the United States. Lastly, the ’94 LM #001, “Frieda,” earned pole position in GT2 and a DNF with Boris Said behind the wheel, but returned in ’95 to take home 2nd place in the GT2 class and 9th overall. This achievement made it the highest-finishing Corvette at LeMans since 1960 when a Briggs Cunningham Corvette finished 8^th overall.

The gathering of these three cars is just one portion of the plans to honor Reeves at this year’s event. With the help of the Callaway Owners Group car club, plans are underway for signage, banners, an extra moment of (not silence) revving in his honor, and more. Tragic times like these bring attention to the impact that legends like Reeves Callaway have had on shaping the automotive industry and community. Corvettes at Carlisle 2023 will be a celebration of both the beloved Corvette brand and the lasting impact of Reeves. 

Join us to see an entire display gallery populated with historic and prominent LeMans racers, a Fun Field hosting every generation of Corvette ever produced, and more. Learn more about the event at CarlisleEvents.com.