Northeast Texas Community College (NTCC) and the Carroll Shelby Automotive Program are set to gain national attention as a fully-restored 1968 Shelby GT350 Convertible takes center stage at the Barrett-Jackson auction in Scottsdale, Arizona, this week.
Scheduled for sale on NTCC's behalf at approximately 6:30 p.m. CST this Friday, January 26, the iconic vehicle will be featured in Barrett-Jackson's no-reserve charity auction. One hundred percent of the proceeds from the hammer price will contribute to scholarships and unique learning opportunities for students enrolled in the Carroll Shelby Automotive Program.
Aaron Shelby, representing NTCC and the Carroll Shelby Foundation, will introduce the car at the auction.
The Shelby GT350 was generously donated to NTCC by Barry Smith, the owner of Legendary GT Continuation Cars. The vehicle, finished in Wimbledon white with all-new fiberglass panels, boasts a 302 Ford small block engine with a 4-speed top loader manual transmission. The build team, which included Beth VanDyke, an alumnus of the Shelby Automotive Program, utilized a mix of new, old stock, refurbished, original, or remanufactured parts, showcasing a commitment to craftsmanship and authenticity.
Jon McCullough, Vice President for Institutional Advancement at Northeast Texas Community College, expressed excitement about the collaboration with Barrett-Jackson, stating, "This beautiful car will help fuel studies by students who want a career in the automotive industry."
McCullough also highlighted the significance of continuing Carroll Shelby's legacy, noting that 2024 marks what would have been Shelby's 101st birthday.
The Barrett-Jackson auction in Scottsdale is a week-long event, televised on the History Channel and FYI network. Those interested in witnessing the sale of NTCC's car can tune in to FYI or visit the Barrett-Jackson website for live coverage.
