Baltimore Grand Prix

A standing room only crowd was shoehorned into Sports Legends this morning. (Fortunately no one invited the fire marshall.) Baltimore Racing Development held a press conference to discuss their strategy for an open wheel street race between Camden Yards and the Inner Harbor in 2011. Good turnout from the local press, with a sprinkling of City and State officials and representatives of the business community. Al Unser, Jr. doubled as the star-power (as did Chris Hoiles) and BRD promoter.

While the presser was more like a pep rally, there was a lot interesting information dispensed. What seemed like a flight of fancy a year ago (when even Councilman Cole thought it a little far-fetched) makes a lot more sense when you learn what Indy Racing League is looking for and weigh it against what Baltimore already offers.

Destination is a huge consideration. The race is almost secondary when it comes to attracting an audience for an entertainment experience, according to Chuck Kosich, long time promoter and part of the BRD consortium. A three day “festival of speed” is the attraction he touts. “Affordable family event” is another part of the formula. But “destination” is the marketing hook. Proximity to the East Coast population center is a big part of that pitch.

The downtown, with its hotels, restaurants, and activities, is the attraction. The festival concept impacts more businesses over a longer period of time. Eventually, (according to Al Unser, Jr.) it becomes an identity, with anticipation for the next annual event beginning as soon as the race is over.

There’s another race going on right now, and it doesn’t involve checkered flags. With a realignment in the world of open wheel racing, Indy Racing League is deciding who will be awarded street races in 2011. While Baltimore is ahead in their fact finding and due diligence, Cleveland, Houston and Boston have also indicated interest. Right now, we’re on the inside track but there are a few pits stops ahead.

One is a money pit, of course. Sponsors, investors, advertisers, government support, in-kind services must all be nailed down. Another is a date workable for a five year commitment (although there is some flexibility on exact weekends available.) Labor Day looks good right now, but that might change a bit. Someone suggested Baltimore on Labor Day could be the traditional end of summer just as Indy on Memorial Day was the beginning. (The "Long Beach of the East Coast" is another possible identity.)

A lot of work lies ahead to make this happen. But it’s hard to contain the excitement. Someone should take pictures from the pedestrian bridges over Howard, Eutaw, Pratt and Light Streets to give an idea of the viewing spaces available. The hotels overlooking the track must be salivating.

Will be interesting to watch the process unfold. As someone said, BDL is handing over the keys. Now it’s time to turn the ignition.