Combining a family visit with the Long Beach GP has become a bit of a tradition over the last few years. Aside from the benefit of spending time with family, the LBGP is one of the greatest racing events in North America. The atmosphere, weather, people watching and competition is second to none.
This year was my first time attending without being in the industry, yet I found my schedule to be shockingly busy. First up was the Road Racing Driver’s Club (RRDC) dinner honoring David Hobbs. I remember David’s career in IMSA and Trans Am, with the Budweiser sponsored DeAtley Camaro that he won the 1983 Trans Am Championship being one of the more iconic cars of my youth. In fact, this car was on site, participating in the Historic Trans Am and IMSA GTO race. It was a highlight of the weekend to see it again.
However, I know David more for being a Milwaukee Honda dealer and regular fixture at the Siebken’s bar in Elkhart Lake near Road America, one of the last great racer bars left in the world.
David has built an amazing career spanning well over 50 years. Perhaps what’s most remarkable is his ability to transition from driver to commentator in the 1980’s, pioneering a career path that’s been used by Darrel Waltrip, Jeff Gordon, Dale Earnhardt, and many more since David proved it possible.
Maybe the best part of the evening was sharing it with my family and friends. It’s rare for me to be able to invite my parents to a motorsports event, especially after 40 years of me being their guest.
The race weekend itself showed the usual strong enthusiasm for road racing. The crowd was excellent, the manufacturer involvement was high, and the number of displays and other vendor activity was at the normal high level for Long Beach.
As a side note, I am surprised to see Toyota back away from their long standing sponsorship. I know it doesn’t make sense for them anymore now that their HQ has moved from Torrance to Texas and they are no longer supplying engines, but there’s such a strong tie between Toyota and Long Beach. I am, however neither surprised it being picked up quickly, and picked up by Acura.
Saturday night was the 27th Annual Racer Reception. Thanks to Paul and his team for continuing to invite me, an industry EX-pert. It was nice to see my friends and contacts again and catch up on the latest news and rumors.
Due to other commitments, I had to leave early which required me watching the SRO (PWC) race at LAX while boarding my flight. I have so many friends in the field that it’s hard to list. However, I couldn’t be more impressed by the opening lap of Michael Cooper in the Blackdog McLaren. One of the most aggressive first laps I’ve ever seen. Additionally, Jarett Andretti stayed calm despite some serious braking issues and managed to fight his way back up to P2 in the Am class in his Endurance McLaren 570.
Nothing is quite like Long Beach, and this year was unique special to me. Family, friends, and old history all while writing a new chapter of LBGP history. I continue to be impressed by the sustained support of road racing by fans, sponsors, and manufacturers.
