PORTLAND, Ore. -- There have been many notable women drivers in the elite history of motorsports racing, from Helle Nice in the 1920s to Janet Guthrie in the 1970s to Danica Patrick today.
In celebration of their skill and determination, the Portland Historic Races will introduce "Women in Motorsports" as a featured race of this summer's 32nd annual event. The Portland Historic Races will take place July 11 through 13 at Portland International Raceway, 1940 N Victory Blvd.
The Portland Historic Races features an annual entry list of more than 200 prestigious historic race cars, ranging from Alfa Romeo to Zink Formula Vee, all of which have been restored to the way 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 female drivers; the Portland Historic Races typically features at least a dozen women behind the wheel.
The 2008 Portland Historic Races will also highlight the Historic Stock Car Racing Series with a field of nearly two-dozen historic stock cars.
At most racing events, the public wouldn't dream of seeing the race cars up close. However, the Portland Historic Races features an 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 Portland Historic Races also presents 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 .
Photos courtesy of George Dwinell.
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