20 entries packed HMSA’s Historic F1 Challenge paddock inside the convention center at last weekend’s Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach as the diverse group of Formula 1 cars from the 70s and 80s provided quite the spectacle for the over 190,000 (estimated) fans that attended the 3-day event.
The always important and appreciated historical component of the weekend was once again enthusiastically embraced amongst current pro drivers, fans, and officials alike.
Practice sessions Friday and Saturday set the grid for Saturday’s race which saw Patrick Long finishing P1 in Erich Joiner’s ex-Keke Rosberg 1983 Williams FW08C, followed by Cal Meeker in his ex-Didier Pironi 1979 Tyrell 009 and Steve Romak about his ex-Vittoria Brambilia 1976 March 761.
Results from race one set the grid for Sunday’s race where Patrick Long once again won from pole and Danny Baker nabbing second in his ex-Nelson Piquet 1976 McLaren M23, followed by Steve Romak in third.
Look for more coverage in the next issue of Vintage Motorsport mailing next week.
Chris Locke getting things going in practice session #1 aboard his ex-Mario Andretti 1976 Lotus 77.
Danny Baker raced his 1976 McLaren M23 on these streets 20 years ago when Historic F1 last visited the GPLB.
Matrin Lauber got the hang of things quickly behind the wheel of this 1979 Shadow DN9.
Patrick Long and the 1983 Williams FW08C team prepare for Race #1 on Satruday.
Into the fountain section go Richard Griot (1974 March 741) and Dean Baker (1977 Shadow DN8)
John Dimmer rounds the hairpin in his ex-Jackie Stewart 1971 Tyrell 004
Tim DeSilva using all of the curb in the ex-Andrea de Cesaris 1982 Alfa Romeo 182 that sat on the pole here in period.
A 7:45 AM practice session Satruday means morning light for Sean Allen (ex-Alain Prost 1980 McLaren M30) and the rest of the field.
Zak Brown (ex-Alan Jones 1980 Williams FW07) paces this group towards turn 11 during Sunday’s race.
Steve Romak (1976 March 761) waiting for his opportunity behind Danny Baker (1976 McLaren M23)
From open to close, the Historic F1 paddock was constantly bustling.
Over the hill and onto a P3 finish goes Steve Romak and his 1976 March 761.
Until next time…
