The Hemmings Motor News Great Race, throughout its four-decade history, rarely revisits a town or city within a short time frame. The Village of Montgomery shattered this expectation, however, as drivers from the 2024 Great Race visited the village for a second time on Thursday, June 27, attracting the entire community to watch vintage cars roll through Clinton Street.

Between 11:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m., 120 teams drove over Ward’s Bridge and pulled into Clinton Street through Wallkill Avenue, showing off their rides to hundreds of onlookers. The drivers had about 20 to 30 minutes to park, enjoy a fresh lunch prepared by the event’s volunteers, and have a quick chat with residents before they took off. Residents had a great time participating in the rally’s pitstop and the drivers appreciated the community’s support. The race came through for the first time in 2022.

“I haven’t seen one before and it’s been great. I really like it, very organized chaos,” said Amanda Noelle, a resident. “Such a random event for a Thursday.”

“I love it, it’s so great for them to come back. The reception they got was incredible,” said Mark Devitt, president of Devitt Hospitality. “It means so much to them that Montgomery came out and showed their support. The Walden Bank and our sponsors have been amazing.”

“I love it, it felt very hometown-y,” said Susie Castle, another resident. “The cars were great and it was a lovely way to spend an afternoon and have lunch.”

“This is awesome, and we know that it’s awesome because this is the second time the Great Race stopped in the village. They never stop at the same place twice,” said Village Mayor Mike Hembury. “As usual, the village is doing a fantastic job, because that’s what we do.”