Final round of the SVRA series at VIRginia attracts a strong collection of NA Miatas

The fifth and final round of the inaugural season of the Sportscar Vintage Racing Association (SVRA) Mazda Miata Heritage Cup took place at VIRginia International Raceway on Sept. 24-25. The races for first-generation NA Miatas continue to attract attention from racers and fans alike and appear to have earned their place at certain SVRA events, helping to create a wide array of machinery for fans to enjoy.

Eighteen cars entered at VIR, with Anthony Fornetti and Brian Cates swapping victories. Bailey Sigler finished third on both days. All three were in 1.6-liter cars.

“Our first trip to VIR was a success and we were able to make a pass on the back stretch to take home a win on Saturday,” said Fornetti. “Special thanks to Rossini Racing Engines for the setup and coaching all weekend.”

As fun and affordable as the racing is in Miata Heritage Cup, it’s as much about the atmosphere as anything else. For Spec Miata racers, it’s a chance to race in front of big crowds that don’t usually show up at club races.

“I was amazed to see all the spectators that came to the track to watch all the SVRA and Trans Am action this weekend,” he said. “I’ve never seen so many people and I think all of the Spec Miatas put on a good show for the crowd. Close competition is the norm with Spec Miata, where you could have a close battle for the lead or a battle for 15th place. That’s what makes these cars and the competition so great.”

Fornetti has said before that the strict no-contact rules and great atmosphere keep him coming back. While next year’s plans for the Mazda Miata Heritage Cup have not been announced, it’s seems likely the program will expand in its second season.