Mario Andretti to be grand marshal at Long Beach

INDYCAR officials announced today that Mario Andretti will be the grand marshal of the 40^th Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach on April 13^th. Andretti won three IndyCar races in his career, as well as the 1977 Formula One race on the streets of Long Beach, California.

“It is totally appropriate to have Mario as grand marshal for our 40th race,” Jim Michaelian, president and CEO of the Grand Prix Association of Long Beach, said. “Over the years, he has been an important part of our history and heritage, and we’re happy to honor his contributions to the Toyota Grand Prix of

“I raced for four decades on just about every course imaginable,” Andretti said. “And I have been associated with the Grand Prix of Long Beach since its beginning in 1975. So I think I speak with authority when I say that it is by far the most successful street race ever staged in American motor racing history.

“Obviously, the fondest memories I have of the streets of Long Beach are my victories, but the entertainment and ambiance away from the track has also become classic. No one leaves Long Beach without vowing to come back. It is truly amongst the best I’ve ever seen and I’m proud to be serving as grand marshal this year.”