The Crescent City is shifting gears this weekend, as over 17,000 Indy Grand Prix fans head across the river to NOLA Motorsports in Avondale, Louisiana. Here, professional racers will maneuver every one of the 13 turns in a newly-designed 2.74 mile race track at neck breaking speeds.
This will be the first time the Indy Grand Prix will be held in Louisiana. The Indy Grand Prix series of races are held around the country, including Indiana, Alabama, Texas, California and Ohio. For New Orleans and Louisiana though, the racing event represents just another opportunity to show off the city’s ability to successfully pull off a major sporting event.
For three days (April 10 to 12), a festival-like atmosphere will pop up around the Indy Grand Prix. Staying true to the state’s roots, it will include local food and music, Mardi Gras Indians, family-friendly activities, and exhibits.
In the making since 2013, both Louisiana and NOLA Motorsports owner, Laney Chouest, have worked hard to get the event up and rolling in time for this weekend’s festivities.
Chouest originally built the Avondale-based facility in 2011, primarily for recreational and commercial use.
After securing a three-year contract to host the Indy Grand Prix Louisiana, he obtained a $4.5 million tourism development grant from the State of Louisiana. On top of that, Chouest has spent $2 million to get the facility to Indy Grand Prix standard and market the event.
Although held in the outlying areas of New Orleans, fans for the event will be primarily staying within the city, utilizing the shuttle bus service from Harrah’s Casino.
Individual tickets and packages are still available for purchase for single or multi-day use at both child and adult prices. Visit www.gpofnola.com for more information.
