Honda Grand Prix Races Through St. Pete

The loud buzz of racecars whizzing through a race course could be heard in Downtown St. Pete March 26th through 28th as the Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg rolled into town yet again.

The race course took over Downtown St. Petersburg’s waterfront, as flashy cars looped around Progress Energy Park, the Mahaffey Theatre, and the under-construction Dali Museum, showing off beautiful St. Petersburg—Florida’s fourth largest city.

Stars like Danica Patrick, Marco Andretti, and Dario Franchitti, the defending series champion, came out for the “world’s fastest spring break party.”

St. Petersburg held several events during the weekend to celebrate the Grand Prix, including the Honda Grand Prix 5K, in which General David Petraeus participated. General Petraeus, the 10th and current commander of the U.S. Central Command, also served as Grand Marshall during the Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg.

“General Petraeus is one of the most respected leaders of the world and it is an honor to have him as Grand Marshal of the Honda Grand Prix,” said Tim Ramsberger, general manager of the event. “There is no one better to give the traditional drivers’ command on Sunday of race weekend.”

The World Challenge Championship was held on Sunday, March 28th, and featured combined class racing for the first time since 1999, making it so GT, Touring Car and GTS class racers had to navigate additional race traffic, as well as the track. Dino Crescentini took the overall win. Peter Cunningham came in first for the GTS class, and Todd Buras came in first for the Touring Car class. 

J.K. Vervay came speeding in at first place, followed by Jan Heylen, a Tampa resident, coming in at second in the Indy Lights race.

The IZOD IndyCar Series race was postponed to Monday morning because of rain. Will Power came in first, earning his second win in as many races.

For more information on the Honda Grand Prix, visit www.gpstpete.com.

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