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Racers learn into the hairpin turn at Valley Dr. in front of Live Oak Park.
Chevron’s Rod Spackman introduces Grand Prix race founder Ted Ernst, who was celebrating his 40th year of participation in the event. Photos by Kevin Cody |
40th Anniversary Manhattan Grand Prix pulls record crowd
A record numbers of spectators turned out for the 40th Anniversary of the Chevron Manhattan Beach Grand Prix on Sunday. Organizers estimating the crowd at over 15,000.
Race founder Ted Ernst said this year’s event was by far the most successful to date.
"I can’t recall ever seeing this many people turn out for the races," said Ernst. "We have always received community support, but this year tops it all. What an exciting day."
The Chevron Manhattan Beach Grand Prix took place on the streets around Live Oak Park in Manhattan Beach. Spectators lined up to watch the cyclists race at speeds up to 40 mph around the 1.4-mile course. Racing action began at 7 a.m. culminating with two main events: the Women’s Pro Race won by Tina Mayolo-Pic of Team Autotrader.com and the Men’s Pro Race won by Jonas Carney of Team Prime Alliance.
The professional’s cyclists’ races were followed by community races that included tricyclists, BMX riders and Strand cruisers.
"This year’s event marked a landmark occasion for Chevron and the Manhattan Beach Grand Prix, and all of our expectations were exceeded," said Rod Spackman, Government and Public Affairs Manager for Chevron. "The racing was exceptional and seeing all of the happy faces in the crowd is why are proud to sponsor this event."
The 2001 Manhattan Beach Grand Prix marked Chevron’s tenth year as title sponsor, continuing the company’s commitment to community service. The Manhattan Beach Lion’s Club and the South Bay Wheelmen cycling organization once again organized the race. Proceeds from the 40th Annual Chevron Manhattan Beach Grand Prix will support Lion’s Club programs for the elderly and children, including scholarships to Mira Costa High School students. ER