The largest and loudest (well, almost loudest) annual sporting event in Ontario is back. Honda Indy Toronto is making its return to Exhibition Place this weekend, much to the chagrin of nearby condo-dwellers. Truth be told, the event will probably be heard by more Torontonians than actually seen live. Still, we have five great reasons why you shouldn’t miss this auspicious occasion.
1. There’s something for (almost) everyone. Let’s be honest, motor racing is primarily about two things: fast cars and beautiful women. Honda Indy Toronto is no different. But an event like this offers something for everyone. Case in point: the INDYCAR Fan Village, where kids can line up for autograph signings or enjoy daredevil motorcycle stunts and concert performances. Dads, on the other hand, can look forward to the Firestone Tech Talk and the Bud Pit Girl pageant. Not to mention the Champ Girls and the Hooters Girls, too. As for moms, well, we’ll have to get back to you.
2. Free Friday. What better way to spend your lunch hour than at the track with your colleagues? Better yet, take Friday off and spend the entire day watching practice races and showcase events. After all, it’s free, and you’ll have unrestricted access to the grand stands, paddock area and concession booths (read: beer gardens). And if you’re not fortunate enough to get the day off, the thunderous noise will render you just deaf enough to not fully hear your boss chewing you out upon a late return to the office. Take it from us: they’re just bitter about not cracking an invite.
3. Celebrate 25 years of racing in Toronto. Legends have been made on this track — just think of Michael Andretti’s all-time race winner achievement (he’s won seven races in the 25-year history). With 2011 marking the Indy’s 25th Anniversary, you can bet the organizers are pulling out all the stops.
4. Celebrity sightings galore. The Twitterverse is already buzzing with rumoured celebrity attendees. We know for sure Dan Aykroyd will be there as the official grand marshal, which means he’s the guy who gives the “drivers start your engines” command at this year’s race. Other celebs known to attend the event include actress Ashley Judd (wife of racer Dario Franchitti), but perhaps tough guys like Sylvester Stallone or rocker-turned-reality-star Gene Simmons are more your thing. Either way, you’re guaranteed to see plenty of star power this weekend.
5. The after party. According to the official Honda Indy Toronto Facebook page, Canadian Indy driver James Hinchcliffe will host after parties at Cobra and Atelier nightclubs downtown (just in case you have energy to spare and can muster the strength to fight the crowds for overpriced booze and sweaty dancefloors).
Honda Indy Toronto, Exhibition Place, July 8-July 10
