Legendary race driver and automotive personality Willy Ribbs stopped by the Simeone Museum on Saturday, November 6 for an evening of dinner and conversation. Willy spent the evening sharing stories about his life and career with over 100 guests and visitors. The evening was emceed by the one and only Ed Welburn, former head of global design at General Motors. Willy kept the evening entertaining as he shared stories ranging from what it’s like to be a multi-sport driver to some of the fun things he saw on and off the track. Mr. Ribbs also didn’t hold back as he discussed the challenges he faced breaking barriers in the sport of racing and shared conversations he has had with current drivers of color about their continued challenges in the sport both nationally and internationally. Noted car enthusiast and producer/comedian Adam Carolla even made a surprise visit and shared some of his stories of working with Willy on their mutual project film project “Uppity, The Willy T. Ribbs Story.”
We want to thank everyone that had a hand in making it one of the most interesting and reflective events at the Simeone Museum in recent history. We especially want to thank the sponsors from Automotive Performance Solutions for putting it all together, Wood Craft BBQ for providing delicious food, Ed Welburn for being an incredible Emcee, Adam Carolla for providing some laughs, and the man of the hour himself, Willy T. Ribbs for keeping it honest and real, and for sharing experiences in racing, both good and bad.
Photos by Andrew Taylor