The Grand Prix of Long Beach was founded by Chris Pook with the intention of creating a race and celebration on a coastal circuit that would highlight the sound of engines and the beauty of southern California, akin to a miniature Monaco. Pook organized a Formula 5000 race for the inaugural event in 1975. Dan Gurney was a tremendous assistance to him; his name immediately gave the event credibility and served as a major selling factor when he spoke with local government representatives. The first race was won by Brian Redman.
When Long Beach joined the Formula 1 schedule the following year, the event started to gain recognition as a must-see. However, costs increased significantly over time, and Formula 1 eventually moved on. Only May and everything Indianapolis Motor Speedway has to offer are more exciting than the race, which has been a highlight of the open-wheel season for decades since IndyCar took over the show in 1984. The fact that IndyCar hasn’t held a points race since the season-opening event on March 10 in the streets of St. Petersburg, Florida, increases the excitement for Long Beach. Josef Newgarden prevailed, demonstrating Penske’s strength right away.
Teams participated in an exhibition event on March 24 at the Thermal Club in California, but the Long Beach activities this weekend will kick the series into high gear. As a lead-up to May at Indianapolis, the third race will take place on April 28 at Barber Motorsports Park in Alabama. The 1.968-mile Long Beach circuit takes cars around the Long Beach Convention Center and along Shoreline Drive, with 11 corners. Oh, and there will be a race. Palm trees will sway, refreshments will be provided, sunbathing and people watching will occur.