Friday, May 8th, 2026
Doors open at 5:00 PM for VIP Guests | 6:00 PM General Admission
Join us for an unforgettable night of motorsport history, elevated dining, and premium cocktails at Charleston’s most spectacular new venue.
Step into an evening of unparalleled storytelling and camaraderie with two of the most respected names in international motorsport. Derek Bell, a five-time Le Mans winner and three-time Daytona 24 victor, remains the ultimate icon of the Porsche factory racing era. Joining him is his son, Justin Bell, a FIA GT World Champion and 24 Hours of Le Mans winner in his own right, who has since become one of the most recognizable voices in global automotive media.
Designed for enthusiasts and members alike, this exclusive event offers a rare look behind the visor. The evening features a lively cocktail reception and elevated food stations, followed by an intimate, moderated conversation. From the hair-raising speeds of the Mulsanne Straight to the technical evolution of the Porsche 917 and 962, the Bells will share firsthand accounts of the triumphs and trials that defined the golden age of endurance racing. Following the discussion, guests will have the opportunity to engage directly with the duo during a live Q&A session.
This evening represents a rare convergence of history. As we gather within the restored brickwork of the 1857 Gas Engine Building—a site once dedicated to the raw power of the steam era—we celebrate the modern evolution of that same spirit through the lens of Porsche’s racing dominance. It is a night designed not just to hear stories, but to experience the enduring legacy of high-performance engineering in Charleston’s most historic industrial setting.
The Venue: A Convergence of History and Horsepower
We are proud to host this event within a true Charleston landmark. Constructed circa 1857, this historic red-brick structure was originally a vital component of the South Carolina Railroad complex.
As the former Gas Engine Building, these walls once housed the massive machinery that powered one of the most ambitious railroad schemes in the antebellum South. It is only fitting that a building designed to celebrate the birth of industrial horsepower now serves as the backdrop for a conversation with the legends of modern automotive endurance. Guests will enjoy the building’s soaring ceilings and meticulous restoration—a space that rivals the world’s finest luxury hotels in both scale and sophistication.
Refined Culinary Program: Lowcountry Heritage Menu
Curated by Duvall Catering & Decor
Cocktail Hour & Passed Hors D’oeuvres (5:00 PM) Begin the evening with a premium open bar and a selection of hand-passed Lowcountry bites, including:
- Lobster Vol au Vent: Poached lobster with tarragon cream in a puffed pastry.
- Cheerwine Glazed Pork Belly: A Southern classic with compressed watermelon.
- Mini Tomato Pie: Heirloom tomatoes and white cheddar pimento cheese.
- Spicy Fried Chicken Bite: Alabama White Sauce and Pickle Chips
Chef-Attended Dinner Stations (6:00 PM) Experience a “small plate” tasting journey featuring the best of Charleston’s culinary heritage:
- Signature Shrimp & Grits: Sautéed shrimp over local yellow grits with Tasso gravy and crumbled bacon.
- Braised Beef Short Ribs: Served with buttermilk mashed potatoes and caramelized Brussels sprouts.
- Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin: Finished with a maple-sage marinade and roasted sweet potatoes.
The Grand Dessert Display (7:00 PM) A decadent collection of mini-sweets, featuring our signature Pluff Mud Porter Mousse, Key Lime tarts, and banana pudding shooters.
The Bar Program: Premium Selections
Our four-hour open bar features a curated selection of domestic and local favorites:
- Local Craft Beer: Featuring Westbrook White Thai and Holy City’s “Overly Friendly” IPA.
- Premium Wines: Including 2023 Pavette Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley) and Riff Pinot Grigio (Italy).
- Specialty Cocktails: Two signature Charleston-inspired drinks will be served—the 917 Old Fashioned and the Iron Horse Mojito.
Event Logistics & Planning:
The Grand at 81 Mary is located in the heart of historic Charleston. For the most seamless experience, we recommend using the Mary Street Parking Garage, located directly adjacent to the venue at 160 Mary St. Charleston SC
- Pro-Tip: The garage offers direct, well-lit access just steps from our entrance, and extra wide spots, making it the ideal choice for our members.
For our members traveling from out of town or those looking to enjoy a full “Charleston Weekend,” we suggest the following premier hotels, all located within a short distance of the venue:
The “Paddock” Collection (Closest to the Venue)
- The Francis Marion: Timeless 1920s elegance in the heart of the Holy City.
- The Dewberry: Mid-century landmark luxury, located directly across Marion Square from the event.
- Embassy Suites – Historic District: Historic 19th-century grandeur in the Original Citadel, situated just steps from the venue entrance.
- Hotel Bennett: Charleston’s most celebrated new landmark, overlooking the gala’s skyline.
The “Grand Touring” Collection (A 15-20 Minute Stroll)
- The Charleston Place: The definitive staple of Lowcountry luxury and world-class hospitality.
- The Spectator Hotel: An intimate, award-winning boutique experience for the discerning traveler.
If you are extending your stay, Charleston offers world-class dining and history.
- Friday Night: Join us at 81 Mary for the main event.
- Saturday Morning: We recommend a stroll through the Historic City Market or a visit to the Battery for iconic harbor views.
- Dining: Be sure to book reservations early at local favorites like Halls Chophouse, FIG, or The Ordinary.
Official Event Schedule: Friday, May 8, 2026
| Time | Event Phase | Location |
| 5:00 PM | Private Paddock Pass Reception & Cocktail Hour | Private Lounge |
| 6:00 PM | General access arrival | Dining Hall |
| 6:30 PM | Catering Stations Open | Dining Hall |
| 7:00 PM | A Conversation with the Bells | Main Stage |
| 8:00 PM | Dessert Display & Audience Q&A | Dining Hall |
| 9:00 PM | Event Conclusion | — |
Hear from Justin Bell
Ticket Options:
Drivers Circle VIP Head Table ($1,250 / person)
The ultimate “Inner Circle” experience
- Private Paddock Pass Reception & Cocktail Hour: Includes early entry for a highly exclusive, intimate meet-and-greet with Derek and Justin Bell before the main event.
- Premium Head Table Seating: Reserved placement at the center of the action, seated alongside our guests of honor.
- All-Inclusive Culinary Program: Full access to the private VIP hors d’oeuvres, all chef-attended gourmet stations, and the premium open bar.
- Limited to just 10 guests.
Heritage Reserved Tier ($450 / person)
The Premier Front-Row Experience
- Premier Front-Row Placement: Secure the absolute best sightlines in the venue with a guaranteed table situated directly in front of the stage.
- Select Your Vantage Point: Access our interactive floor plan during checkout to hand-pick and reserve your specific table location. Seating Plan
- Includes full access to the culinary stations and premium bar.
- Perfect for entertaining clients, groups, or fellow members.
- Limited to 32 guests.
Touring Reserved Tier ($300 / person)
Prime Mid-Venue Seating
- Prime Mid-Venue Placement: Enjoy excellent sightlines from a reserved table located directly behind the Heritage tier, perfectly positioned for the moderated conversation.
- Select Your Vantage Point: Access our interactive floor plan during checkout to hand-pick and reserve the specific table that best suits your group. Seating Plan
- Includes full access to the culinary stations and premium bar.
- Perfect for entertaining clients, groups, or fellow members.
- Limited to 56 guests.
Classic Tier ($195 / person)
World-class stories and dining
- An incredible value for an unforgettable night.
- Immerse yourself in an unforgettable evening of motorsport history, including the cocktail reception and the live moderated conversation.
- First-Come Seating: Enjoy comfortable, non-reserved seating with clear sightlines for the main stage presentation and Q&A.
- Includes the complete Lowcountry Heritage menu featuring all chef-attended gourmet stations and the premium open bar.
Add-On: Paddock Pass (+$350)
Early access for the dedicated fan
- The Ultimate Inner Circle: An ultra-exclusive opportunity for just 35 guests to engage privately with Derek and Justin Bell before the main doors open
- Private Audience: Enjoy a relaxed, intimate cocktail reception in the historic surroundings of the 1857 Engine Building, away from the main crowd.
- Personal Interaction: The ideal setting for one-on-one conversation and photos with the legends, featuring top-shelf service and premium hors d’oeuvres
- Limited to 35 guests.
Attendees: 57
- Terry Koziara
- Mary Koziara
- Elaine Kirwin
- Craig Hunsicker
- Dot Ahuja
- Leonard Way
- Jennifer Way
- Mark Vuletich
- Karl Troy
- Kim Troy
- Mike Duck
- Mike Duck
- Gordon King
- Sue King
- Jennifer Mims
