Acura Grand Prix celebrates 50 years as Long Beach's premier racing event

Under the bright lights of Long Beach City Hall, a gathering of city officials and motorsport enthusiasts celebrated a remarkable milestone: the 50th anniversary of the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach. This iconic event, one of the oldest open-wheel street races in the United States, has woven itself into the very fabric of the city, attracting fans and drivers from around the globe.

The journey began in September 1975, when the inaugural race, a Formula 5000 event, drew over 46,000 spectators. Brian Redmond emerged victorious that day, igniting a passion for racing that would soon transform Long Beach into a motorsport haven. Just six months later, the city hosted its first Formula 1 race, quickly earning the nickname "Monaco of the West." With palm trees lining the streets and the scenic shoreline as a backdrop, the Grand Prix quickly became a favorite among fans.

In those early years, the racecourse wound through the actual streets of Long Beach, with drivers speeding past cheering crowds. One of the most thrilling sections was Ocean Boulevard, where cars would make a sharp turn onto Linden Avenue, a stretch famously known as the "Linden Leap." Here, the excitement reached new heights as some cars occasionally soared into the air, thrilling onlookers.

The 1977 Grand Prix marked a pivotal moment in the event's history. Jim Michaelian, affectionately dubbed "Mr. Grand Prix," recounted how that race was won by the legendary American driver Mario Andretti, who battled fiercely against competitors Jody Scheckter and Niki Lauda. Andretti's victory, captured in a famous photograph of him speeding down Ocean Boulevard with Colin Chapman tossing his cap in celebration, solidified the Grand Prix's reputation and future.

Today, the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach stands as more than just a race; it has become an economic powerhouse, transforming the city into an international destination. As the community reflects on its rich history, the excitement for the future of this beloved event continues to grow, promising more thrilling races and unforgettable moments for years to come.