Portland, OR. –April 21, 2008 – The Portland Historic Races, which is celebrating “Women in Motorsports” at this summer’s event, congratulates Danica Patrick, who became the first female winner in IndyCar history Sunday at the Indy Japan 300. Patrick’s achievement is truly historic for women in motorsports.
Patrick won in her 50th career IndyCar start, taking the led from Helio Castroneves on the 198th lap of the 200-lap race on the 1.5-mile Twin Ring Motegi oval.
The Portland Historic Races announced earlier this year that it would honor the skill and determination of women in motorsports as the theme and featured race of the 32nd annual event. The Portland Historic Races will take place July 11 through 13 at Portland International Raceway, 1940 N Victory Blvd.
The event features an annual entry list of more than 200 prestigious historic racecars that have been restored as they were when they originally raced decades ago. The cars are divided into groups according to make, age and horsepower, then raced at high speeds to their full potential, delighting enthusiasts just as they did in their heyday. One of these groups will be comprised solely of women drivers.
The 2008 Portland Historic Races will also highlight the historic stock cars from the famous NASCAR series with a field of nearly two-dozen historic stock cars.
The Portland Historic Races is noted for its open paddock, allowing fans the opportunity to walk right up to the cars, some of which are the most historic and valuable sports and racing cars in the world. Interaction with the drivers and crews is highly encouraged. The event also offers a visual display of more than 700 collector cars and hot rods; an upscale food and wine chalet; a kid zone; an autocross; and a vendor midway.
The Portland Historic Races run daily from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tickets cost $40 for all three days; $10 for Friday; or $25 for Saturday or Sunday. Children under the age of 12 are admitted for free when accompanied by an adult. Tickets are available at www.portlandhistorics.com and at the gate. Advance discount tickets are available at all Baxter Auto Parts locations.
The event is a fundraiser for the Community Transitional School, a Portland-based organization that provides important educational services to children who are homeless or otherwise at risk of school failure.
The Portland Historic Races are produced and sanctioned by the Historic Motor Sports Association (HMSA). Established in 1977, HMSA is an organization specializing in race events that feature historic cars through 1972. HMSA emphasizes the preservation and proper use of historic racecars.
For more information about the Baxter Auto Parts Portland Historic Races, call 818-249-3515 or visit www.portlandhistorics.com.