Welcome, race fans!
The Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg is set to return for another weekend of speed and excitement on March 23-25, to kick off the 2012 IZOD IndyCar Series season.
Now in its eighth year, with race action on a temporary street circuit in beautiful downtown St. Petersburg, it's the "World's Fastest Spring Break Party". Drivers race at speeds in excess of 170 mph on a 14-turn course through the streets of downtown St. Petersburg, circling the Progress Energy Center for the Arts - Mahaffey Theater, the stunning Dali Museum and then onto the runways of Albert Whitted Airport, all overlooking the picturesque city waterfront.
The 2012 Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg marks the first race for the new IZOD IndyCar Series car, which replaces the current chassis introduced in 2003. The event also marks the beginning of a new form of competition among engine manufacturers with three different engines, Honda, Chevrolet and Lotus, competing for track leadership.
There's more than just racing action at the Honda Grand Prix, it's a weekend packed with family friendly fun along the magnificent waterfront. The Festival of States Illuminated Night Parade and Fireworks kicks off the weekend's festivities as race drivers wind through downtown and along the waters edge to celebrate the official start of the Honda Grand Prix. Fabulous floats light up the streets and fireworks illuminate the night sky. Combined with a night of music and beads, it's a great way to jump-start the weekend.
Friday is packed full of practice sessions, followed by the Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg 5K Run, Walk 'N Wheel-a-thon. Participants have the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience every curve and straightaway of the track as they run, walk or wheel around the 5k course, just as the IZOD IndyCar drivers do.
Practice and qualifying sessions continue on Saturday and the main event unfolds Sunday. Concerts and air shows take place all morning long leading up to the exciting pre-race ceremonies and the IZOD IndyCar race start, which begins with the traditional drivers’ command to: start the Honda Indy St. Pete.
Something for all
In addition to race excitement, this family-friendly event also includes a kids area, complete with a ferris wheel, clowns, rock climbing, face painting and much more.
Those opting for a luxurious experience with a Monaco-like style can take advantage of the prestigious Acura Yacht Club. Specially built private floating docks let specatators view the race from the comfort of a yacht. The slips provide unprecedented vantage points at turns 10 and 11, located directly alongside the race track.
Add to your race weekend experience by visiting the world renowned DalĂ Museum. Discounted museum admission rates of $10 for adults and $5 for children are being offered March 23-25. Located in the heart of the race area, the musuem is only accessible to race ticket holders. It's a great opportunity for fans to enjoy two world-class experiences. The entire museum will be open and the museum offers great access and views of the race action.
Stay tuned for further details on the 2012 events or visit www.gpstpete.com.
You don't want to miss this!
