Port of LB revs up for Grand Prix

The port authorities that run the Port of Long Beach, CA have agreed to step up their sponsorship of the city's annual Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach, donating $155,000 to event promoters in exchange for advertising, VIP passes, pit-stop access, parking and other goodies.

The donation, unanimously approved by Long Beach Harbor Commissioners last week, represents a $40,000 increase from 2008 and gives the port an opportunity to splash its "Green Port" logo in front of a growing international television audience.

"This is our Kentucky Derby," said Port of Long Beach Harbor Commission President Jim Hankla, who pointed out that the downtown racetrack sits on waterfront land developed in large part through the years with funding from the port. Port officials will receive 20 large track signs, two track viewing suites stocked with booze and food, 12 parking passes and pit access throughout the April 17-19 event. The port's logo will also be wrapped around a green-and-white Toyota Prius pace car.

Jim Michaelian, Toyota Grand Prix's President and CEO, said ABC is dedicating up to eight hours to covering the race.

The race is in its 35th year and is expected to attract more than 200,000 attendees. Press-Telegram