Jerry Rinaldo, Michelin race operations manager, retires after this weekend. A surprise party Wednesday night celebrated his 38-year career. Photo credit: Rick Dole for Michelin North America

Michelin motorsports race operations manager Jerry Rinaldo rides off into the sunset this weekend at Petit Le Mans, capping a memorable and remarkable 38 years in racing. He only just missed his first race in that time period at Mosport at the end of August.

On Wednesday night, to celebrate his career, friends, colleagues and co-workers all gathered to throw a surprise party for Rinaldo outside his Michelin race truck in the paddock. Photos from the event are here, shot by ace photographer Rick Dole.

Rinaldo said about sports car racing and the American Le Mans Series in particular, that it was never boring for a moment. Always on his heels and ready to assist, Rinaldo rides off this weekend having been involved with tire inventory, mounting, travel, transportation, testing, races, drivers, officials, team engineers and media.

A cartoon commemorates Jerry Rinaldo's racing career and possible retirement plans.

Meanwhile, this cartoon gives some ideas as to Rinaldo’s retirement plans.