IRMO, S.C. – Thousands of classic car fans packed Moore Park on Sunday, June 29, as the world-famous 2025 Hemmings Great Race, presented by Coker Tire, made its grand finale right in the heart of Irmo. The nine-day, 2,300-mile rally began in St. Paul, Minnesota, and finished in spectacular style in the Capital City/Lake Murray Country region.
This year’s race featured 120 vintage vehicles, including everything from 1930s coupes to muscle cars of the ‘60s and ‘70s. Racers navigated through 17 cities before crossing the finish line in Irmo. More than $160,000 in prize money was awarded across five competitive divisions.
South Carolina had plenty to cheer for—local driver Zach Payne and navigator Rober McCallum took first place in the Rookie Division with their 1967 Ford Mustang. Other winners included a 1966 Mustang convertible from Galax, Virginia in the student X-Cup Division, a Texas brother-and-sister team in a 1969 Camaro for the Sportsman Division, and Gary and Jean Ann Martin of Kentucky, who topped the Expert Division in their 1932 Ford coupe.
Taking home the overall Grand Champion title and a $50,000 prize were Jeff and Eric Fredette of Illinois, driving a 1933 Ford pickup.
“It was an incredible honor to host the finish line,” said Miriam Atria, President/CEO of Capital City/Lake Murray Country. “The turnout was amazing, and it gave visitors a chance to experience the charm and hospitality of our community.”
The event had a true festival feel with live music, food trucks, vendors, and lots of up-close time with the vintage vehicles and their drivers. It marked the first time Irmo has hosted the race’s finish, and the reception from locals and visitors alike made it a huge success.
Jeff Stumb, Director of the Great Race, said, “We couldn’t have picked a better place to end this year’s race. The people of Irmo and Lake Murray Country really turned out despite the heat and looming storms.”
The 2026 Great Race will follow the iconic Route 66, starting in Springfield, Illinois, and ending in Pasadena, California.
