The Great Race: Grandfather/Grandson vets hoping for top five

(Editor’s Note: In honor of Father’s Day, and over the course of the 2015 Great Race beginning June 20, we’re profiling nine teams, each consisting of some variation of a father and daughter, father and son, or grandfather and son. Stay tuned for these stories and results from the race.)

John and Scott Hudson (Baldwinsville, N.Y.)

1940 CHEVROLET MASTER DELUXE COUPE (#60)

Great Race driver John Hudson will make this year’s trip with his 22-year-old grandson and navigator Scott Hudson, in their all-original 1940 Chevrolet Master Deluxe Coupe. They come from Baldwinsville, N.Y., and this will be their 8th Great Race event.

John grew up working at his father’s automotive shop and eventually became the owner. When Scott turned 13, he was invited to be a navigator in the Great Race by his grandfather, and since that first experience he has been hooked. The breathtaking scenery, sense of family, challenge of the race and the countless friendships made along the way all add up to memories that last a lifetime.

“In an old car like our 1940 Chevy, there aren’t any distractions. It’s just the two of us, the car and the road. Nothing can take us away from the great experience of traveling across the country together,” said Scott.

During this year’s trip, the team is hoping to roll into the top five with the possibility of a win. Out of around 100 cars participating in each of the last two races, they maintained their claim to 8th place, a confidence-building accomplishment. The dedicated duo has raced in a total of 28 regional rallies. They won nine events hosted by the Northeast Rally Club and have earned 57 aces —or perfect legs — since 2003.

Be sure to wave to John and Scott as they motor through their 25 day adventure: three days to get from Baldwinsville, NY to the start of the race, 11 days on the race and 11 days to get back home from California.

Tomorrow: Jeff and Eric Fredette and their 1933 Ford B Truck