After much success in its inaugural 2015 event, the Grand Prix of Scottsdale announced this year’s Grand Prix of Scottsdale on Nov. 4-6. The streets of Downtown Scottsdale will transform into a cinematic, modern day version of the Roaring 1920s with over 20,000 expected attendees from across the Valley participating in the three-day Gatsby experience that aims to turn back the clock. Racing teams will have the opportunity to custom design their own USA-made Vintage Mini Racer™ through Vintage Kart Company and compete against friends, colleagues and corporate rivals. The official race day festivities on Sunday, Nov. 6 will kick off at 9 a.m. and conclude at 5 p.m.
The Grand Prix of Scottsdale weekend will commence with a ‘Gatsby Under the Stars Gala’ on Friday night hosted by The Grand Prix’s charity partner, Southwest Human Development, on the Marshall Way Bridge. Driving teams from local businesses, national corporations and charities will be able to display their branded Vintage Mini Racers, mix and mingle with the competition and enjoy food and libations. Southwest Human Development will also be bringing a new celebratory affair to the weekend with a Gatsby Lawn Party on Saturday and Sunday where all guests will be encouraged to wear their finest Gatsby-style attire. Attendees will be able to sample over thirty beers, wines and food from Valley chefs in a euphoric 1920s atmosphere and enjoy Big Band music from the era, choreographed dance performances and a special cigar bar complete with club seating. On Saturday, drivers will be able to check-in to prepare for the Sunday’s Grand Prix main event racing activities. The Concours d’ Kids will be available throughout the day for children to enjoy crafts, games and a mini Grand Prix driving experience with the “Grand Prixni.”
The morning of the Grand Prix, driving teams can attend the ‘Dine & Drive’ trackside breakfast where a special unveiling of the 2016 Vintage Victory Trophy will be presented. Radio Personality, Dave Pratt will serve as the Master of Ceremonies and Scottsdale Mayor, Jim Lane will serve as the pace car passenger for the Main Event Race where up to 40 Vintage Mini Racers will navigate around the over a half mile road course with teams of six drivers. Local artisans, restaurants and businesses will have the opportunity to participate by adapting to and embracing the 1920’s era celebration. The Grand Prix of Scottsdale will serve as an opportunity to celebrate Americana, heritage, quality craftsmanship and the local businesses that aided the progression of the Downtown Scottsdale community.
“There is nothing more rewarding than to see an idea turn into reality and become a success,” said Jack Gee, Grand Prix of Scottsdale, co-producer. “We have created a legendary event that will forever be recognized as a tribute to American heritage, community accord and a first-of-its-kind experience that started in our hometown of Scottsdale. We believe it’s a great time to expand this idea with our sponsor partners to other wonderful communities across this great nation of ours.”
The Main Event Grand Prix will officially begin at 11 a.m. and the race course will weave through the landmarks and retail venues of Downtown Scottsdale, starting on the Marshall Way Bridge at the Scottsdale Waterfront, zooming down Goldwater, across 5th Avenue and finishing back where it began. Driving teams and spectators will watch the racing action from ‘Pit Row’ and other VIP viewing areas near the Marshall Way Bridge. The Grand Prix event is free to attend for the public.
The Grand Prix of Scottsdale main event will conclude with a Vintage Victory Awards ceremony sponsored by Victory Brewing Company at the Marshall Way Bridge. The sponsored celebration will incorporate the presentation of the ‘Vintage Victory Trophy’ to the Grand Prix’s winning team and awards for second and third-place race teams and the best individual lap time.
