GP Of Baltimore Seeing Uptick In Sponsorships, Ticket Sales

Izod IndyCar Series Grand Prix of Baltimore organizers are "bullish on sponsorships for the Labor Day weekend event and on tickets, which have been for sale since before Christmas, though they won't release exact numbers," according to Luke Broadwater of the Baltimore SUN. Race GM Tim Mayer said, "We're literally four months ahead of last year."

Organizers said that in another change this year they are "making a concerted push to attract parents with children to a more family-friendly event." Children 12 and under will be let in "for free, if accompanied by an adult, compared to the $35 price for all attendees last year."

Organizers also are "moving the 'Family Fun Zone' inside the air-conditioned Baltimore Convention Center and expanding the activities there." Mayer said, "Last year, we were 100 percent focused on getting the race put on. Now we're absolutely focused on increasing the value for families." He added that organizers also are "making changes for adults," including "improving the beer garden, hoping to host the 'World's Largest Crab Feast' and booking better-known bands."

Race On LLC partner J.P. Grant, whose company organizes the race, said, "Ticket sales are well in advance of last year. Suite sales are well in advance. Sponsors are on tap already. We've learned from last year. This is a race I'm committed to. Every year it should get a little bit better and a little bit better" Baltimore Sun