The Event
The Ennstal-Classic is far more than just a drive; it is a three-day test of man and machine. Precision, endurance, and a relentless return to analog motorsport. Over more than 1,000 kilometers across the Alps, the teams are required to maintain full concentration.
Schedule of the Ennstal-Classic
Wednesday
The kickoff begins even before the first starting signal. During check-in in Gröbming, the town transforms into a lively paddock. Here, the vehicles undergo technical inspections and the roadbooks – the bible for the coming days – are handed out. In the motor park, teams can also complete the technical check and have their vehicles wrapped by our crew. Additionally, there are interesting exhibitors and stalls covering everything related to classic cars. On Wednesday evening, the Ennstal-Classic officially kicks off in the beautiful courtyard of the Imlauer Hotel Schloss Pichlarn, where the welcome addresses and the first gathering of participants take place on the golf green beneath the 1,000-year-old oak – followed by a buffet.
Thursday: The Prologue
The first day of driving traditionally leads the field over challenging mountain passes and through the untouched nature of the Ennstal towards the south. It is the first test against the stopwatch. But the “Prologue” is mistaken: this is no leisurely warm-up – on the first day, we go full throttle from the start. Covering approximately 380 to 400 km, teams will already encounter some of the highlights on day one. After the midday break, the route heads towards the Red Bull Ring, where participants complete laps on the legendary F1 circuit, before tackling the iconic Sölkpass at dusk. The day concludes in Schladming, where crowds of spectators welcome the participants at the main square, and the evening venue awaits directly there.
Friday: The Marathon
This is the heartbeat of the Ennstal-Classic. Friday is all about endurance. From the early morning hours until dusk, the participants cover the longest distance of the event, approximately 400 to 450 km. The endless narrow streets and roads in and around Steyr make the hearts of drivers and co-drivers race, as they battle for tenths and hundredths of a second on average-speed checkpoints and closed hill climbs. Afterwards, countless curves and special stages challenge the participants to their limits before reaching the day’s finish. In the evening, the finish line is in Gröbming, and over a beer at the Classic tent, teams reflect on the day’s marathon.
Saturday: The Finale in Gröbming
Saturday belongs to the fans and tradition. In the morning, the legendary mountain route on the Stoderzinken is on the program. The closed Alpine road provides the perfect stage for spectacular sights and driving skills. The road winds through breathtaking heights, and the views will not disappoint. After the Stoder section, the Classic tent offers the opportunity to enjoy a brunch and recharge for the finale. The crowning highlight is the Grand Prix of Gröbming. Amid thousands of spectators, the vehicles are showcased in a demo Grand Prix before the final scoring, where participants must hit seven light gates down to the hundredth of a second.
The glanzful finale is the Night of the Champions. Here, the winners are celebrated, and the efforts of the past days give way to the joy of achievement. It is the moment when sporting performance becomes part of the history of the Ennstal-Classic. A closing party with a DJ and Red Bull Showbar is, of course, not to be missed. The experiences of the past days are meant to be fully discussed and celebrated.
