Hespen Named Mazda Raceway PR Manager

Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca announced today that Patrick Hespen has taken the position of Public Relations Manager, to handle communications efforts at the legendary Monterey Peninsula road course. Patrick is the second new hire in as many months as Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca expands its work force to take on the growing popularity of the racing facility and its events.

Hespen brings four years experience in the automotive and marketing industries to the organization. He comes to Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca from his position as Media Relations Specialist for Audi of America, Inc. and Audi Sport North America. He started as an intern with Audi of America, Inc. in 2004, eventually becoming a public relations team member responsible for product, technology, corporate, and motorsports communications. Hespen also spent time as a Mobile Marketing Tour Manager for Momentum Worldwide handling a Coca-Cola Football Town U.S.A. mobile tour in 2004. In addition, Hespen is a ten-year veteran of the United States Air Force Reserve and Air National Guard where he was an Electrical Power Production Journeyman.

Hespen will handle the day-to-day public relations for the facility, while the track’s Press Officer, Ed Nicholls, will focus his efforts on the five major events.

“We are delighted to have Patrick on board," said Gill Campbell, CEO/General Manager of Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca. “Patrick will boost our communications efforts alongside Ed Nicholls to help make the track and our events even more prominent to the media and the entire racing industry."

“This is an opportunity I never dreamed could happen," said Hespen. “When you think of world-famous road race venues, Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca is at the top of many people’s lists. I am ecstatic to have this opportunity, and genuinely look forward to working with my new colleagues."

Hespen joins Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca as the organization is in a period of growth, having recently hired Melvyn Record as Vice President Marketing and Sales. His arrival is also in time to prepare for the exciting 2008 race season which includes the Monterey Festival of Speed (May 16-18), the Red Bull U.S. Grand Prix (July 18-20), the 35th Rolex Monterey Historic Automobile Races presented by Toyota (August 15-17), the Corona AMA Superbike Finale (September 27-28), and the Monterey Sports Car Championships (October 17-19).

Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca is celebrating its 50th Anniversary in 2007. The world-renowned raceway has been operated since its inception by the Sports Car Racing Association of the Monterey Peninsula (SCRAMP), a not-for-profit 501C(4) corporation. Each race season, SCRAMP donates its net proceeds to the volunteer groups that help put on the races. Last season, SCRAMP donated over $400,000 to those local charities and civic organizations.