Another Player Takes the Field

It becomes official tomorrow, but early press reports have already tipped tout le monde of the newest entry into the "Festival of Speed" next Labor Day.

Tomorrow (September 1st) at the Inner Harbor at noon, Mayor Stephanie Rawlings Blake will announce that the American Le Mans Series will add their event to the Baltimore Grand Prix.

The American Le Mans Series, which will consist of ten races in 2011, is a different kind of racing in different vehicles.  It has an entirely different constituency and fan base, so the presence of this event will enhance the experience for Indy Car aficionatos while drawing in additional spectators for another race.

This add-on doesn't mean additional construction or further delays -- it will be incorporated into the existing race course and schedule.  The only thing it brings more of is $$$$, via the traveling teams and their followers.

Here's the revised course.  It has been tightened up considerably with greater use of the Camden Yards complex.  Pit Row will abutt the length of the historic Warehouse, with the access turns directly in front of Camden Station.  Exit from the pit land and one stretch of the course will take the drivers down Lee Street, between the two stadiums.

The popular paddock area will be in the Convention Center (which will also feature a two block observation deck overlooking Conway,) and family activities will be staged outside Home Plate Plaza in Lot A.

This will look stunning on television, with all the aerial footage focused on the action taking place among those recognizable Baltimore landmarks.

We'll be hearing a lot about the Baltimore Grand Prix in the coming year.  Tune in to their website frequently for news about the schedule, activities, and participants.