Baltimore is motoring up for the 2012 Baltimore Grand Prix (BGP) that will zoom through the streets of the Inner Harbor next weekend. From Friday, August 31, 2012, through Sunday, September 2, 2012, IZOD IndyCars will be rocking speeds of 180 MPH on a specially constructed, two-mile track, while competing in the second annual BGP.
This year’s event is organized by Race On, LLC that has partnered with Andretti Sports Marketing to co-produce, market and promote the event. The new group took over the BGP planning and development after the first-year organizers failed to pay bills and meet other commitments promised to the City of Baltimore and the State of Maryland. However, on Thursday, August 23, the debt issue was resolved lifting the spirit leading up to this year’s race to even more exciting heights.
Last year, Will Power took the inaugural win. Colin Powell, an avid racing fan, presented the trophy.
The second annual event looks to be even more awesome than last year. Michael Andretti took over the wheel for the 2012 event, and it appears to have the familiar tire tracks of the multi-generational racing family around every turn. Here is a guide to this year’s event:
Where: Inner Harbor, Downtown Baltimore, Maryland
When: Labor Day Weekend, Friday, August 31- Sunday, September 2, 2012
Tickets and Racing Schedules : Each day is packed with exciting track action. Friday through Sunday, the American Le Mans Series, Firestone Indy Lights, and IZOD IndyCar Series practices, qualifiers, and the 75-lap, 12 turn premier event on Sunday, September 2, 2012, will have IndyCar fanatics captivated while new fans are sure to be initiated.
The Andretti Club : This is a special VIP package that includes selective seating, food and beverages, driver meet and greets and much more. Individual passes are $895 and group tables of 10 are $8,950. Visit here for more information on this race fan exclusive.
Parking and Street Closures : There will be no parking inside the race course. Public lots are available all around the seating stands and event stages. There will be several street closures to consider when making plans to attend the event. Several streets will be closed for a few weeks before the event as well. For public transportation options, visit a special Maryland Transit Administration Grand Prix page.
Guest Services: Missing Persons, Lost and Found, First Aid, and other booths designed to make the race experience a safe and pleasant one will be located throughout the venue. Earplugs will be available as decibel levels can be dangerous in some areas along the route. There are restrictions as to what spectators can bring to the event. This Fan Guide provides an in-depth description of all race day rules, regulations and accommodations.
Track Events: The Winner Circle Stage will be the place to be to hear live music all weekend long. Kids of all ages will enjoy interactive games at the three DHL Speed Zones and the Dr. Pepper Ten Go-Cart Track.
Baltimore native and Grammy-nominated singer, Mario, whose hit “Let Me Love You” was number one on the Billboard charts for nine weeks, will sing the national anthem before the IZOD IndyCar Series race at the Grand Prix on Sunday. His current album is titled Go.
Even those not familiar with racing may recognize a special name reported to be participating in this year’s festivities. Arie Luyendyk, racing legend and father of Arie, Jr., runner-up on last season’s ABC hit show, “The Bachelorette,” is scheduled to be signing autographs at the Andretti Club along with this year’s Indianapolis 500 winner, Dario Franchitti. Franchitti is also married to actress Ashley Judd.
The Baltimore Grand Prix is being presented by Chrysler’s Street and Racing Technology (SRT) group. The 2013 SRT Viper and 2012 Jeep Cherokee SRT8 will be the lead cars responsible for opening all races during the three-day extravaganza.
For more information on next weekend’s events, logistics, sponsors and the spectacular future of IndyCar racing in Baltimore, visit raceonbaltimore.com.
Source: andrettisportsmarketing.com, Race On, LLC
