Honda Indy Toronto Receives Approval for 2024 Return

Photo Credit: Chris Nagy/Car FYI Canada/XSL Speed Reporter 

On Friday September 15th, a vital meeting for the 2024 Honda Indy on the street of Toronto concluded in favour for welcoming back the headlining sounds of twin-turbocharged Honda and Chevrolet engines next summer. The Board of Governors of Exhibition Place decided to approve the application submitted by Green Savoree Toronto for a one-year license to extend the popular auto racing event. 

In the agreement, the 2024 event is tentatively slated to be held over four days starting July 18th and extends to July 21st. Billing itself as an event that generates $47 million for the economy of the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), according to report from the Chief Executive Officer of Exhibition Place Don Boyle, the Honda Indy Toronto also supports more than 450 full time jobs in the GTA. The race weekend also contributes heavily to the hospitality industry of the city accounting for over 33,000 hotel room nights between the race teams as well as race spectators with 34 percent attending from outside Toronto. During the 2023 edition of the event, more than $100,000 was raised for Make-A-Wish Canada with the total after 12 years of the partnership cresting above $1 million.

A somewhat concerning detail about this recent application is the deal only covers a single year of the Honda Indy Toronto. The previous four times when negotiating with Exhibition Place, Green Savoree Toronto sought three-year extensions for the race event. It’s unclear why the decision was made to not pursue a multi-year agreement for 2024 and beyond. The reason for requesting a one-year agreement is unclear. Financial terms for the 2024 agreement are confidential.

Since its 1986 inception, the street race within Exhibition Place had been missed on only three occasions with two (2020 and 2021) caused as a result of the COVID-19 global pandemic. The 2008 event was not held as the Champ Car open wheel racing series planned to run at the venue entered unification with the Indy Racing League/IndyCar. Along with IndyCar being the headliner, a number of additional racing series support the race weekend in Toronto including the NASCAR Pinty’s Series as well as Sports Car Championship Canada in recent years. 

With the 2024 edition of the Honda Indy Toronto passing by its approval hurtle, the schedule for the upcoming NTT IndyCar Series is slowly taking shape. Though a complete 2024 season tour has not been announced by the open wheel organization there have already been several set. Already teased by IndyCar is a season finale on the streets of Nashville for September 15th as well as $1-million to win non-points event on March 24th at California’s Thermal Club. 

Bentley Continental GT3 Pirelli World Challenge Car at 2014 Honda Indy Toronto



Photo Credit: Chris Nagy

The Bentley Continental GT3 is taking part in its inaugural season in the 2014 Pirelli World Challenge series' GT category. Fielded by Dyson Racing and piloted by veteran road racer Butch Leitzinger, the radical twin-turbocharged V-8 powered luxury car made its first street race appearance at the Honda Indy Toronto event.

For the 2014 Honda Indy Toronto race weekend, the Dyson Racing Team Bentley organization experienced mixed results. During race one on Saturday, the Bentley Continental GT3 driven by Butch Leitzinger finished 19th overall after being caught in a turn three accident on lap 19. Sunday's second race concluded with a much more favourable result crossing the line in ninth place.

Below is a video of the Bentley Continental GT3 car undergoing Friday preparations in Toronto.

Are the Days Numbered for Auto Racing on Streets of Toronto?

Photo Credit: Chris Nagy

This year’s Honda Indy Toronto closed on a high note. Headlined by the IZOD IndyCar Series’ first doubleheader event on the streets of Toronto, we have seen two action-filled races where Scott Dixon came out on top with a $100,000 bonus for sweeping the weekend. The first standing starts in the IZOD INDYCAR Series on Sunday also provoked an extra tone of excitement for race fans. With the 2013 edition of the July weekend motorsport near-tradition is in the books, the future of the auto racing on the street course could be altered. Last renewed in early 2012 through to the 2014 season, there is a possibility that the same thundering roar of engines may not be produced by the waterfront location.

　

History

Originally called the Molson Indy, the most of North American open wheel racing has catered to established auto racing fans and won over so many others since 1986. Back then, the CNE grounds was a more bustling location for entertaining Canada’s largest city. The Toronto Blue Jays were still playing at a stadium on the land, the Canadian National Exhibition was larger and nearby Ontario Place provided all the reason for the area to be a go-to place for fun. For better or worse, the Blue Jays have long been playing at the Skydome (Rogers Centre) while Ontario Place is currently an unattended island. Despite this, one ongoing event has been held 26 times in 27 years has been a modern mainstay that has both noise to property lining Lake Shore Boulevard. Cancelled in 2008 due to the Champ Car series merging with the Indy Racing League, the race returned in 2009 through the intervention of a seven-time Toronto event winner Michael Andretti. Assuming the title Honda Indy Toronto, shaky Champ Car fields prior to 2009, a one-year absence and an economic downturn led to a less impressive spectator count for the race headlined by the IZOD INDYCAR Series. Crowds have been gradually returning to the race event (although real number to confirm this have not been released by the less-than helpful race promoters. attendees and television viewers of the 2013 Honda Indy observed near full grandstands within a crowded CNE grounds.

　

The Changing City

　

Toronto has been a city undergoing a major metamorphosis. Thanks to high property values, every parcel of land in the city is seen as the next condominium development or big box store location. Until a city council vote put the kibosh on the Toronto casino plan, the CNE grounds was being eyed as a location for a gambling-related resort area. This move would have undoubtedly prompted the immediate end of the Honda Indy Toronto (at least in its current location). Even Scott Dixon noted the high-rise development during the Sunday press conference after the 2013 Honda Indy. It is widely suspected redevelopment of the Ontario Place grounds could involve the addition of new condominiums or other buildings. Part of it is already stated to be reimagined as a giant green space that will still require the movement of heavy equipment in and out of the Ontario Place grounds. Construction that has gripped the city could cause a rethinking of the Honda Indy Toronto’s route.

With a 2017 target date set for Ontario Place refurbishing, part of the land is slated to be used for the 2015 Pan Am Games. Hosting one of the largest, international multi-sport gatherings behind the Olympics, the Pan Am Games will run July 10 through to the 26 (squarely within the Honda Indy Toronto‘s typical dates). Though the two events are significantly different, it could prove difficult to stretch City of Toronto resources for a pair of major sports. It is possible the Honda Indy Toronto and Pan Am Games will divide attention for three days (not including the pre-race activities).

Without an announcement for a contract extension, the Honda Indy Toronto may be faced with cancellation or relocation in 2015.

Photo Credit: Chris Nagy

Where the Honda Indy Could be Held in 2015?

Throughout the running of the racing festival on the streets, closing down a stretch had not been popular for non-race fans. While many Toronto festivals involve street closures, the Honda Indy Toronto has been earning distaste for some since it causes traffic interruptions for multiple days consecutively. If the long-used CNE grounds would be unavailable, the IZOD IndyCar Series and other support series could presented near Toronto with two options involving no street closures.

The first future venue choice could be the Canadian Tire Motorsport Park (traditionally known as Mosport). Serving as a venue for the USAC open wheel series four times from 1967 to 1978, recent development of the road course facilities around the 2.46-mile track has been underway. Along with hosting sports car racing and other national racing series, Canadian Tire Motorsport Park will be hosting its first NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Race late this summer. Would the road course prove as welcoming to IZOD IndyCar fans as the street circuit in the heart of downtown Toronto?

From the oldest-operating track in Canada to what will be the newest, Canadian Motor Speedway under construction right now in Fort Erie is more than a one and a half hour drive from Toronto but have the potential of treating IZOD IndyCar fans to oval track racing on our home turf. The one-mile oval serving as the centerpiece of the project will host a grandstand capacity for 65,000 spectators. A 2.5-mile road course is also part of the Canadian Motor Speedway complex.

　

　

While the Honda Indy could be moved, there could be a strong likelihood the race may stay by the Toronto waterfront. It would be a shame the electric weekend of this year’s event would cease being a part of a Toronto summer.

Rising Canadian Star Di Leo On Track with Praga for Toronto Indy Lights Race

Photo Credit: Praga

Firestone Indy Lights is a storied right of passage for many famous racers including over the years including Helio Castroneves, Tony Kanaan, Dan Wheldon and Greg Moore. More recently, Canadian racing superstar James Hinchcliffe was a graduate of two seasons in the ladder series prior to his IZOD IndyCar Series success. Matthew Di Leo wants to be the next racing Canuck to earn his way into the top levels of motorsport.

The 4th place finisher last year in the Cooper Tire USF2000 Powered by Mazda, Di Leo fought against several well-supported organizations with his own team MDL Racing. At 18-years old, the Canadian has already shown the passion, ambition and talent to aspire to much more in motorsports. During the upcoming Honda Indy Toronto race weekend, the driver wants to make his next significant racing stand on home turf. Thanks to a Czech Republic company, the MDL Racing entry has the opportunity to figure prominently in the Firestone Indy Lights competition.

Matthew Di Leo's support for the 2013 Honda Indy Toronto event will come from Praga Racing Holding. A diverse collection of motorsport companies providing everything from young driver training to professional race vehicles, a Praga racing chassis was part of the 2013 24 Hours of Le Mans race. Praga Director of Media Relations Krystle Carrara stated, "Matthew was one of the first drivers to race on Praga in North America, and he supported and promoted the brand from its inception, so we are happy to return the favor in this collaboration with MDL Racing,". In addition to sponsoring Matthew Di Leo, Praga will have a display of their kart chassis at the 2013 Honda Indy.

Starting in ninth place (second-to-last on the grid), Di Leo not only survived his first Firestone Indy Lights race at Long Beach but held on for a strong opening effort. Placing fifth, the Innisfil, Ontario driver is bracing to put on a meaningful demonstration of his talent with the Honda Indy Toronto race weekend.

Matthew Di Leo will race July 13th in the eighth round of the 2013 Firestone Indy Lights.

Friday Adventure at the 2011 Honda Indy Toronto Part 5

Photo Credit: Christopher Nagy/XSL Speed Reporter

Once again, the sound of around 700 horsepower pulsed the Toronto waterfront in a sound wave I can only term angelic. The keepers of Honda engine power, the drivers of Dallara race chassis vehicles was given a second chance to burn up the steaming hot streets of Toronto. Taking several vantage points across the track, I was able to hear the tones of the open wheel IZOD INDYCAR machines blitzing the race track.
In the afternoon session, the notes of the morning session have provoked a harder charging mentality amongst the drivers. Only 8 minutes into the start of the IZOD INDYCAR  Series' second practice, the #77 Sam Schmidt Motorsports car piloted by Canadian hero Alex Tagliani spun in turn 8. Briefly stoppd on the course, Tagliani's car was impacted by Graham Rahal's #38 Chip Ganassi Racing Dallara-Honda. Creating the first full course yellow in the session, the practice restarted promptly after the Holatro Safety Team were able to assist both vehicles in restarting. Afternoon practice for the IZOD INDYCAR Series was slowed once more when 2004 Toronto race winner Sebastien Bourdais stopped in the same turn 8 area as the Tagliani/Rahal caution prior.

Photo Credit: Christopher Nagy/XSL Speed Reporter

The second practice ended with the #12 Penske Racing car piloted by Will Power claiming the edge on the 1.755-mile race course. Maintaining a cautious optimism, Power commented, “The Verizon car is good, but we are still not quick enough.” The reigning winner of the Honda Indy Toronto, the Australian mentioned, “It is great to be in Toronto, through, and really good to see all the fans.” A final chance to get an impression for the Toronto street course during the first day of the event's three day run, drivers were both eager to rest after a testing day on the bumpy city streets and debrief with crews as they search for more speed.

Photo Credit: Christopher Nagy/XSL Speed Reporter

The fourth fastest in the session, Canadian James Hinchcliffe provided a lap giving the hometown crowd a real reason to cheer. As with every Honda Indy Toronto I've attended the appearance of Paul Tracy is equally as appreciated regardless to his practice time performance. Besides, any Paul Tracy fan knows the “Thrill from West Hill” truly shines during the actual race.
Following the IZOD INDYCAR practice, the excitement level at the track was maintained by the performance of the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series conducting their time trials for Saturday's main event. Divided into groups, the stock cars were released up to the track in order to post fast time. The most anticipated performances during the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series qualifying were expected from Andrew Ranger and Jason Bowles making part-time appearance in the tour. Both skilled road racers, it was Andrew Ranger who posted a pole-winning effort with Bowles settling for a front row starting position beside his main opponent. Crucially fighting for the championship in Canada's top stock car racing series, Scott Steckly was third quickest in the #22 Dodge. One of my last duties at the race track was to observe the post-qualifying press conference held in the conference room.

Photo Credit: Christopher Nagy/XSL Speed Reporter

Unlike the previous years when I had so much fun at the track but knew when it was time to leave, this year's Honda Indy Toronto was not so clear. Even past 5 PM, the track environment still felt lively as spectators were still rounding the track and walking through the paddock areas of race teams. On the track, the Castrol Canadian Touring Cars were rolling with the sound and look of street cars.
Witnessing the first day of the 2011 Honda Indy Toronto, the health of the major motor racing festival could be given a clean bill. Thanks to some brilliant weather, successful promotion through events such as Honda's Free Friday, and the gaining stability of the headlining IZOD INDYCAR Series, this 2011 Honda Indy first day lured one of the biggest crowds since the early 2000s.

Photo Credit: Christopher Nagy/XSL Speed Reporter

As I left the race track, I was gladly greeted by a Dr Pepper brand representative providing a complimentary can of pop as a final act of courtesy to race fans. Leaving the track where I partook in the start of what could be one of the greatest Honda Indy events since INDYCAR reunification, the inefficiency of the City of Toronto was presented with the TTC Streetcar service. Normally, I am very grateful and would speak highly for the TTC service. However, for some bizarre reason, the TTC streetcar would not receive passengers near the Princess Gate requiring prospective riders to walk more than half a kilometer down the road to the next streetcar stop. While it is all right for someone able bodied such as myself, my concern was over families with little children walking across the roadway used by under-considerate Toronto drivers. It was also disappointing that the TTC dispatched a smaller streetcar to pick up the large crowd leaving the 2011 Honda Indy.

Despite this late day inconvenience, my excursion to the Honda Indy Toronto can not be substantially impacted by a return to real life. In fact, the Honda Indy is one of the few times in the entire year I personally feel completely alive. Unable to completely bring myself to realizing my emotions, it has taken me about a month to completely finish my thoughts and experiences of this one day. To celebrate the automobile in the best fashion through good natured competition, cars being unleashed to their full potential, even the knowledge I am only one of many in this Toronto makes me feel so enriched by what is probably the only love I need in my life.

The photo presented below is a complication of afternoon practice action for the IZOD INDYCAR Series.

Friday Adventure at the 2011 Honda Indy Toronto Part 4

Photo Credit: Christopher Nagy/XSL Speed Reporter

Around noontime, the red-hot exhausts of five racing series worth of vehicles heated the CNE grounds as the Honda Indy Toronto entered in full swing. It was also at this time in the sun has sufficiently baked the Canadian city. Embracing the heat of the new afternoon, the fifth and final form of motorsports given a crack at the road course was the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series. Of all the series that practiced on the Toronto street course, the fiberglass-bodied stock cars provided the most eventful session of the still-young weekend of racing.

Kerry Micks' car stopping on track plus damage to the cars of Steven Matthews and 2010 NASCAR Canadian Tire Series champion DJ Kennington concluded the session. Based on the prestige and crowds attending the 2011 Honda Indy, the NASCAR Canadian Tires Series event on the Saturday was considered a major race. Drawing names like Jason Bowles and Canada's own Andrew Ranger away from action south of the 49th parallel, the preparation for the 100-mile stock car event.

Attending the Honda Indy for so many years has given me a reliable natural compass to guide me to where I can expect to see action on and off the track. Following the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series practice, I planted myself within the paddock area of the stock car series. Inside Toronto's Direct Energy Centre, the stock car roared up to their small service areas behind their race haulers. With NASCAR Canadian Tire Series qualifying only 4 hours away, the #15 car crew of Steven Matthews and the #17 Castrol crew of DJ Kennington were quickly sent to work on restoring their race machines to peak performance.

Photo Credit: Christopher Nagy/XSL Speed Reporter

Much like the IZOD INDYCAR Series rolling down Gasoline Alley during the morning practice at Toronto, audiences appeared in droves to see cars and drivers up close belonging to Canada's premier stock car racing series. By the appearance of men, women and children hustled inside the Direct Energy Centre, it seems the Honda Indy is reigniting that magnetic race enthusiasm for auto racing in Toronto.

Photo Credit: Christopher Nagy/XSL Speed Reporter

Back on the 1.755-mile track, the Ferrari Challenge series opened up their Italian-built V-8 powerplants down the frontstretch. One of the drivers competing in the 2011 debut of the Ferrari Challenge at Toronto was popular businessman and TV Personality Robert Harjavec. After being out of almost every deal that came into the Canadian version of the business pitch show Dragon's Den, Harjavec was in fact 'in' control of a F420 Challenge car numbered #007.

Photo Credit: Christopher Nagy/XSL Speed Reporter

Notification of a massive autograph signing in the INDYCAR Fan Zone instantly lured the most anxious fans wanting to have the signature and a few seconds with their idols from the IZOD INDYCAR Series. While IZOD INDYCAR afternoon practice sent out exhaust notes of Honda V-8 engines, over a hundred individuals awaited patiently in the hot summer weather for an event still more than an hour away. Danica Patrick, James Hinchclffe, Paul Tracy and JR Hildebrand were among those seated at the head of fans greeting each admirer warmly.

Photo Credit: Christopher Nagy/XSL Speed Reporter

Bringing memories of when I waited in line for autographs from the 2001 Players Racing duo of Alex Tagliani and Patrick Carpentier, the wait can certainly be worth the time spent. I remembered on that day leaving the autograph session I inadvertently ended up in the way of Michael Andretti riding a scooter back to his race team's paddock. Unfortunately, I would not obtain my first digital camera until late in that year. Andretti and the #6 Newman/Haas Racing team went on to win the Toronto race with Alex Tagliani finishing just behind in 2nd place. I mused afterwards that if Michael Andretti would have accidentally ran into me he could have won the CART championship.

In the next edition, for what will be my final chapter in this visit to the 2011 Honda Indy, I will conclude this tale with a revisit from the IZOD INDYCAR Series and the exciting qualifying of the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series.

Friday Adventure at the 2011 Honda Indy Toronto Part 1

Photo by Christopher Nagy/ XSL Speed Reporter

For the past two years, I have been able to regale readers of this website on my trip to the Honda Indy of Toronto. An action-filled Friday, I regret the fact it took me so long to complete a posting relating to my trip. On top of other responsibilities, an intention to post the entire race day in one post would result in a long-winded mess for the Internet. I know, I tend to be rather detailed in the composition of my articles so I've began to break down my morning and afternoon recap into parts. Please enjoy this first part of my attendance of 2011 Honda Indy
With the Honda Indy Toronto crossing forth into its 25th anniversary since the first event won by Bobby Rahal, my true relationship to the race started 12 years later. Able to physically attend my first “Molson Indy” event, I have always been welcomed with a spectacle of auto racing life and culture I could never resist the following year. A major tourist draw for 25 years based on celebration of the many allures for motorsport, I just happened to be one of those automotive enthusiasts attracted by the power of advance open wheel racing technology watching the pursuit of driver and team questing for the top mastery of speed.
Granted media access to this year's very special Honda Indy event, the opportunity to present the racing festival of Toronto is now a responsibility wrapping many pleasures. Taking the only sensible method of travel through downtown Toronto (at least most of the time) is the TTC. Every time I ride on a subway car or streetcar, I suddenly hear the song “Romantic Traffic” by the Canadian 1980s new wave rock band “The Spoons” in my head. A little bit before of this websites readers (in fact “Romantic Traffic” roughly before my own interest in any music); the music video was staged within the subway line of the TTC during the mid 1980s.

As I stepped off the TTC streetcar when reaching early morning rush of the Castrol Canadian Touring Cars, I was to know this year (perhaps for than any other year) the 2011 Honda Indy Toronto would provide this automotive writer and editor with inspiration so ripe with excitement.

Arriving in the early morning hours, my residual sense of grogginess was vanquished immediately with action-filled day. Taking my first step into the media center acquaint myself with the part of my work area, an announcement that past event IZOD INDYCAR winner Marco Andretti will be in the media conference room was relayed. Arriving in a surprisingly near empty pressroom just past 9 am, the Iowa Speedway winner walked in minutes later.

Photo Credit: Christopher Nagy/ XSL Speed Reporter

Having the 2011 race winner and third generation Andretti racer in the room, I regretted I was unable to think of an intelligent question ideal for the 24-year old driver. Through the day, I continued to consider what question I could have asked Marco Andretti. It was not until lunch that I had finally brainstormed a suitable query. Not a very serious question, I probably could have asked it there is any place in Toronto Marco enjoyed when the IZOD INDYCAR Series visits the city. I know, it's not incredibly hard-hitting and somewhat light-hearted but it would have been a break from the racing-related questions (not that the Honda Indy would be considered a tiring subject.

As Marco Andretti left the conference room to prepare for Friday morning practice, I proceeded outside within the 1.755-mile track for the first time. Under the beautiful, cloudless skies, the Ferrari Challenge cars warmed up on the 11-turn street course for the very first time. The sound as well as the movement of those almost completely stock Ferrari F430 and Ferrari 458 supercars demonstrated a near perfect accompaniment to high speeds of the Lakeshore Boulevard stretch. Taking in the show on the Thunder Alley grandstands, I recalled my first Honda Indy presence in 1998. There for the Saturday and Sunday, I remembered how exciting it was to watch the CART World Series in probably one of their last great seasons. With my own eyes that weekend almost 13 years ago, I watched Michael Andretti, Paul Tracy, Patrick Carpentier as well as the late, great Greg Moore roaring down the Lakeshore. I remembered how the race was won by than Target/ Chip Ganassi driver Alex Zanardi.

Photo Credit: Christopher Nagy/ XSL Speed Reporter

Recalling my first race, I began to wonder how many fans young and old would take in this 2011 Honda Indy event. Since the race lost the long-time Molson sponsorship, crowds appeared to have dipped considerably. Following 2008 when a race did not take place due to reunification of open wheel racing, the 2009 Honda Indy had trouble bringing fans back to the event and not greeted kindly by the media. For 2011, this event is burning on all cylinders. To start, the Honda Canada sponsored Free Friday reached full potential as the combination of a sunny hot day and parent seeking to entertain their recently summer break bound tykes stormed through the attendance gates. By noontime, the CNE ground was well covered by a potpourri of individuals sharing the event. Besides the racing action on track, there was no shortage fun inside the enclosed Toronto street circuit including the IZOD INDYCAR Fan Zone. One of the sights on the area was a preview of the 2012 IZOD INDYCAR Series race vehicle.

Photo Credit: Christopher Nagy/XSL Speed Reporter

  

As the Ferrari Challenge cars left the track with only the memory of their brute, Italian sound, the Firestone Indy Lights cars prepared for competition. With the graduation of last year's Canadian Firestone Indy Lights series star James Hinchcliffe to the Newman/Haas Racing IZOD INDYCAR team, Canada's lone representative in the ladder series was Maple, Ontario's David Ostella. Riding 7th in the Firestone Indy Lights standing leading into the Honda Indy event, Ostella's rookie appearance with Jensen Motorsport did not go without notice by Canadian auto racing fans. During the weekend, that 19 year old was probably given a full initiation into what it means to be a rising auto racing star competing in his home country. With Ostella 6th fastest on track, Andretti Autosport's Stefan Wilson took fastest time in the morning practice on the streets of Toronto. As we know in hindsight, this top time for Wilson was a precursor to what would be a first career Firestone Indy Lights victory during Sunday's 100-mile event.

Photo Credit: Christopher Nagy/ XSL Speed Reporter

In part 2 of my 2011 Honda Indy Toronto review, I will recap the arrival of the headline IZOD INDYCAR Series to the race track. Star drivers such as Dario Franchitti, James Hinchcliffe, Paul Tracy and Danica Patrick take to 1.755-mile race circuit. Below, I have compiled a few videos which are now posted on Youtube. Posting them much sooner than I was able to construct the written review of my 2011 Honda Indy experience, I am very impressed by the reception of both videos.

2012 IZOD INDYCAR Dallara Chassis

2011 Honda Indy Ferrari Challange Morning Practice

2002 Toronto Indy Race Photos

In honour of the 25-anniversary of this great race in Toronto, I'll share some images from previous year events. The following photos were compiled from my visit to the 2002 Molson Indy event. These are the first digital camera images I snapped at the race track. Please keep in mind my camera was only a 1.3 megapixel camera with a 2x digital zoom. At the time I knew the camera was reasonably advanced but we can clearly note digital camera on cell phones is more sophisticated.  

In a race weekend dominated by than Newman/Haas driver Christiano da Matta, these images were taken on the Saturday.

Video of 2012 Dallara INDYCAR Prototype

Power Takes Honda Indy Toronto Pole

 Photo Credit: Jim Haines

The 25th anniversary of the Indy in Toronto, former Penske Racing driver Emerson Fittipaldi was the inaugural pole when the event existed as the Molson Indy in 1986. 24 races later, the Toronto event readies with the 2011 IZOD INDYCAR time trials.

Receiving beautiful weather in the great Canadian city of Toronto, the 2011 edition of the Honda Indy concluded its first day Friday with driver Will Power posting a fast pace. Taking just over 1 minute to lap the 1.755-mile, 11-turn temporary street course, Power's #12 Penske Racing was 1/10th of a second faster than Chip Ganassi Racing's Scott Dixon. In the second practice session Friday, Dixon was followed on the time sheet by current IZOD INDYCAR Series points leader Dario Franchitti. As the Toronto race ends a 5-race streak of oval event on the 2011 IZOD INDYCAR Series tour, the Scotsman realizes he needs to shut down challenger Will Power starting with the event the Penske driver won last season.

Photo Credit: Chris Nagy/ XSL Speed Reporter

In a fast Honda Indy of Toronto qualifying session, the top-3 drivers positioning mirrored Friday second practice with Will Power edging the #9 car of Scott Dixon with a 59.5771 second time. Winning the Toronto race first under the Champ Car banner in 2007, Will Power took victory in last year's IZOD INDYCAR Series round on the temporary street course.

Photo Credit: Chris Nagy/ XSL Speed Reporter

Recording a 2nd fastest time in the qualifying order with 59.6646 second lap around the Toronto circuit, Dixon retains a normally strong time trial effort through his five career events at the race track. Dario Franchitti resulted the afternoon with a 3rd place timed run but was almost bumped by a fast Andretti Autosport car in the hands of Mike Conway. Fastest in the morning practice, Conway wheeled his #27 to a 59.6329 second pace through 1.764 miles. The top-4 drivers in Honda Indy qualifying broke the 1 minute barrier.

Concluding the timed session with a 5th place, a delighted Graham Rahal driving the #38 Service Central Dallara-Honda looked forward to the 2011 IZOD INDYCAR Series season's return to road course. Rahal captured a runner-up spot in the last street course event at Sao Paulo, Brazil. Graham Rahal's teammate Charlie Kimball will be starting his first Honda Indy of Toronto IZOD INDYCAR race in 25th place just ahead of Ana Beatriz.

Behind 6th place's Oriol Servia, former Toronto race winner Sebastien Bourdais greatly changed his fortunes after practice. Driving the Dale Coyne Racing #19 as the series returns to road courses, Frenchman Bourdais added a 7th fastest starting position for Sunday's Honda Indy event.  

The first IZOD INDYCAR race of the year for what is a two-event stretch in Canada, Toronto gives the nation's motorsport fans a chance to intimately cheer on their country's drivers. Totaling three in for 2011, mainstays at the Honda Indy of Toronto Paul Tracy and Alex Tagliani were joined by 2011 IZOD INDYCAR rookie contender James Hinchcliffe. A popular young wheel man, Hinchcliffe seated in the #06 car brought an exciting new dimension to the 2011 edition of the race. Hometown fans for the Canadian contingent of drivers were brought to their feet on Friday by the pace of Toronto native James Hinchcliffe in this Newman/Haas Racing. Recording a 4th fastest time in the second practice session of the opening day of track action, the rookie Hinchcliffe could only muster a 13th place run on Saturday. Alex Tagliani in the #77 Sam Schmidt Racing car posted the fastest time by a Canadian driver in qualifying with 9th place. Driving the #8 for Dragon Racing, Paul Tracy launches off 24th on Sunday Make a Wish Foundation Dallara-Honda.

Photo Credit: Chris Nagy/XSL Speed Reporter

As Will Power surges the hopes for a third Penske Racing team victory on the streets of Toronto, the cars of Ryan Briscoe and Helio Castroneves faltered somewhat in qualifying. The #6 of Briscoe starts 10th while Castroneves will take the 13th place on the grid. Crashing out of Honda Indy race in 2010, Toronto has been a tough career race for Helio Castroneves. In fact, the Brazilian's best finish on the race circuit was 10th coming in his CART rookie year in 1998. Ryan Briscoe has better race luck on the Honda Indy track with a runner-up result in the 2009 race.

A three-time winner in 2011 and the reigning Honda Indy champion, the pole position may not seal a certain victory for Will Power. Only 6 times in 24 Indy car-style races on the Toronto street course has the winner started on pole. Dario Franchitti was the last driver to accomplish this feat in 2009.

The 25th year anniversary edition of the Honda Indy Toronto starts tomorrow at 2:50 pm Eastern time.

2011 IZOD INDYCAR Series
Streets of Toronto
Starting Lineup

1. 12 Will Power/Australia/ Penske Racing
2. 9 Scott Dixon/New Zealand/ Target/Chip Ganassi Racing
3. 10 Dario Franchitti/Scotland/ Target/Chip Ganassi Racing
4. 27 Mike Conway/England/Andretti Autosport
5. 38 Graham Rahal/United States/Chip Ganassi Racing
6. 2 Oriol Servia/Spanish/ Newman/Haas Racing
7. 19 Sebastien Bourdais/France/Dale Coyne Racing
8. 28 Ryan Hunter-Reay/United States/Andretti Autosport
9. 77 Alex Tagliani/Canada/ Sam Schmidt Racing
10. 6 Ryan Briscoe/Australia/ Penske Racing
11. 22 Justin Wilson/England/ Dreyer & Reinbold Racing
12. 3 Helio Castroneves/Brazil/ Penske Racing
13. 06 James Hinchcliffe/Canada/ Newman/Haas Racing
14. 14 Vitor Meira/Brazil/ AJ Foyt Racing Enterprises
15. 34 Sebastian Saavedra/Columbia/ Conquest Racing
16. 82 Tony Kanaan/Brazil/ KV Racing Technology
17. 78 Simona De Silvestro/Switzerland/ HVM Racing
18. 58 EJ Viso/Venezuela/ KV Racing Technology
19. 5 Takuma Sato/Japan/ KV Racing Technology
20. 26 Marco Andretti/United States/ Andretti Autosport
21. 7 Danica Patrick/United States/ Andretti Autosport
22. 4 JR Hildebrand/United States/ Panther Racing
23. 18 James Jakes/England/ Dale Coyne Racing
24. 8 Paul Tracy/Canada/Dragon Racing
25. 83 Charlie Kimball/United States/ Chip Ganassi Racing
26. 24 Ana Beatriz/Brazil/ Dreyer & Reinbold

Video of Friday's NASCAR Canadian Tire Series Qualifying at 2011 Honda Indy Toronto

Bowles Outpaces Ranger for Streets of Toronto 100 Pole

Photo Credit: Chris Nagy/XSL Speed Reporter

Running on the same schedule along with temporary race course as high-speed open wheel and exotic sports cars for the 2011 Honda Indy Toronto, the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series provides a distinct presence. While the V-8 powered, fiberglass-bodied stock cars appeared quite unusual careening through the streets of Toronto, the show provided last year by these cars as well as their respective drivers brought a high amount of bumping and banging for track position.

For the 2011 race, Friday track activities for the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series kicked off with a calamity-filled just past noon time. Throughout the session, several drivers including Mark Dilley and Kerry Micks suffered teething problems with their race cars. While one incident of contact saw the #17 Dodge of defending series champion DJ Kennington around in the infamous turn 3 hairpin, a more damaging hit involved the 2011 NASCAR Canadian Tire Series' leading rookie of the year contender. The #15 Ford of Steve Matthews spun on the entry to turn 9 hitting the tire wall. Resulting in rear damage with impact to the track barrier, the damage with more greatly affected when another vehicle slammed into the reversing Matthews. Unable to stop in time, the second vehicle crashed hard mangling his stock car's front end.

Photo Credit: Chris Nagy/XSL Speed Reporter

When qualifying Prevailing most convincing in the Friday midday practice session was the defending winner on the streets of Toronto. The #27 Dodge of Andrew Ranger lapped the 1.764-mile street course in 13 minute, 16.336 seconds. Half a second faster than the second place in the session, the young Canadian road racing ace gained the higher hand over the #11 car of Jason Bowles and Scott Steckly.

During the afternoon, NASCAR Canadian Tire Series teams were busy to repair damaged machines as they prepared for a later qualfying for the Streets of Toronto 100. A transmission was replaced on the #9 Dodge of Mark Dilley's and of course the rear crash damage on Steve Matthews' car was quickly remedied.

Photo Credit: Chris Nagy/XSL Speed Reporter

By the time qualifying commenced, 30 of the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series season-high 33-car entry list competed for top time. Divided into two qualifying groups, it was the latter group that contained the fierce battle for the Streets of Toronto 100 pole. Andrew Ranger, Jason Bowles and Scott Steckly stormed onto the temporary road course set for a three-way duel.

Posting top time first, Andrew Ranger's #27 Dodge practically attacked the circuit driven on the edge of control. Ranger skill would prove difficult to overcome in the early stage of the session until the #11 Fuel Doctor car of Jason Bowles knocked the #27 from the top of the grid. Containing the faster of the NASCAR Canadian Tire series stock cars that practiced earlier, another threat for the Streets of Toronto 100 pole could have been the ICAR winner Robin Buck. Driving the #66 Quaker State/Durabody Dodge, Buck was overaggressive in his attempt at a top qualifying time ended as the car slid sideways into the tire barrier.

Photo Credit: Chris Nagy/XSL Speed Reporter

With a fastest time of 1 minute, 15.260 seconds, Jason Bowles will start the Streets of Toronto 100. Reigning victor of the race Andrew Ranger starts alongside Bowles on the front row. Last season, those two drivers fought the final laps at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve in August. As Bowles led into the final corners of that Napa 100, Ranger wrestled his way to the 2010 race victory. The first race the combatants met this season in the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series, the past sets up an interesting precursor to what can be seen on the start of Saturday's Streets of Toronto 100 event.

Behind the Bowles/Ranger front row, Scott Steckly, Kerry Micks and Don Thomson Jr round out the top-5 for the Streets of Toronto 100 Saturday. Other notables starting the road race includes DJ Kennington starting 6th, Robin Buck 7th, JR Fitzpatrick in 9th, Steve Matthews in 17th spot, and Jason Hathaway starting 22nd.

INDYCAR Honda Indy of Toronto Schedule & Weather Forecast: July 8th to 10th 2011

Photo Credit: Chris Jones

Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Honda Indy of Toronto
2011 IZOD INDYCAR Series/ Firestone Indy Lights

Friday:

9:55 am- Firestone Indy Lights
Temperature: 24 degrees Celsius (75 degrees Fahrenheit)
Sky Conditions: Sun with clouds
Chance of Precipitation: 0%


10:55 am- IZOD INDYCAR Practice
Temperature: 25 degrees Celsius (77 degrees Fahrenheit)
Sky Conditions: Sun with clouds
Chance of Precipitation: 0%


2:50 pm- IZOD INDYCAR Practice
Temperature: 28 degrees Celsius (83 degrees Fahrenheit)
Sky Conditions: Sun with clouds
Chance of Precipitation: 0%




Saturday:

8:00 am- Firestone Indy Lights Practice
Temperature: 19 degrees Celsius (66 degrees Fahrenheit)
Sky Conditions: Sun with clouds
Chance of Precipitation: 10%


9:00 am- IZOD INDYCAR Practice
Temperature: 21 degrees Celsius (70 degrees Fahrenheit)
Sky Conditions: Sun with clouds
Chance of Precipitation: 10%


11:45 am- Firestone Indy Lights Qualifying
Temperature: 25 degrees Celsius (77 degrees Fahrenheit)
Sky Conditions: Sun with clouds
Chance of Precipitation: 10%


12:55 pm- IZOD INDYCAR Qualifying
Temperature: 26 degrees Celsius (79 degrees Fahrenheit)
Sky Conditions: Sun with clouds
Chance of Precipitation: 10%



Sunday:

8:00 am- Firestone Indy Lights Warm-up
Temperature: 21 degrees Celsius (70 degrees Fahrenheit)
Sky Conditions: Sun with clouds
Chance of Precipitation: 10%


8:40 am- IZOD INDYCAR Warm-up
Temperature: 23 degrees Celsius (73 degrees Fahrenheit)
Sky Conditions: Sun with clouds
Chance of Precipitation: 10%


12:15 pm- Firestone Indy Lights Race
Temperature: 28 degrees Celsius (82 degrees Fahrenheit)
Sky Conditions: Sun with clouds
Chance of Precipitation: 10%


2:52 pm- IZOD INDYCAR Race (Honda Indy of Toronto)
Temperature: 29 degrees Celsius (84 degrees Fahrenheit)
Sky Conditions: Sun with clouds
Chance of Precipitation: 10%

Honda Debuts 2012 Civic Safety Car at Toronto INDYCAR Race

When the IZOD INDYCAR Series kicks off their first of two races of a 2011 Canadian visit, the Honda Indy of Toronto is the one time of the year where a different, more unbridled kind of speed awakes the roads around the Canadian National Exhibition grounds. In the feature event Sunday, the main attention turns to 26 purpose-built Dallara open wheel racing machines. Propelled by 600 horsespower Honda V-8 engines, the vehicles of the IZOD INDYCAR Series will command respect through rhythms roaring in the air over Lake Ontario and pulsation of the pavement. Drivers like Dario Franchitti and Will Power engage in competition within a field of veteran and series rookies for 85 laps. A completely unique sight, the 2011 Honda Indy of Toronto will feature a one more rookie of the automotive variety thanks to the event's title sponsor. In the latest support of the IZOD INDYCAR Series, Honda has outfitted a new ninth-generation, Si-trimmed Civic Coupe for Safety Car duties in the North American open wheel racing series.  

Decorated with special colours and exclusive livery, the 2012 Honda Civic Si Coupe is given a moderate accessorizing to best quality itself for on track activities. Starting with some exterior improvements, Honda Genuine Accessory sourced a body kit featuring a sportier front and rear skirt. As the body kit mostly complements the aesthetics, Honda Racing Development gave the 2012 Honda Civic Coupe some more aggressive braking hardware. When applied, four-piston brake calipers on every wheel presses racing pads against competition rotors. Completed with stainless steel brake lines, the 2012 Honda Civic Si Coupe INDYCAR Safety Car has the ability to react during the extreme duties of policing much faster race cars. A considerably-modified vehicle, it may be surprising to note that some IZOD INDYCAR Safety Car's exterior parts are actually within reach by the general consumer through participating dealerships.


With stopping power upgraded, Honda Racing Development also made some enhancements to the 2.4 liter i-VTEC engine. No specifics were divulged on how much more output the 2012 Civic Si powerplant was tuned to produce beyond the stock 201 horsepower mark. Throughout first pace laps the 2012 Honda Civic Si will govern, grippy Firestone Firehawk cars will roll on 18-inch Enkei alloy wheels.

Driven by three-time Indianapolis 500 winner and official INDYCAR driver Johnny Rutherford for the first time on Sunday around the 1.765 miles, 11-turn temporary street course, the proven professional will find a well-appointed 'office' inside of the 2012 Honda Civic. Sparco racing seats with four-point safety harnesses are found inside the mostly factory interior.

Making its premiere at the IZOD INDYCAR Series round in Toronto for Safety Car service through the rest of the season, it is fitting that the special 2012 Honda Civic Si Coupe debuts this weekend.  For the North American market, one of two origins for the 2012 Honda Civic (excluding the Civic Hybrid models) is the Alliston, Ontario plant less than an hour down the highway from Toronto's CNE grounds.

Entry List for the 2011 Honda Indy of Toronto

Photo Credit: Chris Nagy/XSL Speed Reporter

 

 

2011 IZOD INDYCAR Series

Honda Indy of Toronto

Toronto, Ontario

Entry List

1. 06 James Hinchcliffe/Canada/ Newman/Haas Racing
2. 2 Oriol Servia/Spanish/ Newman/Haas Racing
3. 3 Helio Castroneves/Brazil/ Penske Racing
4. 4 JR Hildebrand/United States/ Panther Racing
5. 5 Takuma Sato/Japan/ KV Racing Technology
6. 6 Ryan Briscoe/Australia/ Penske Racing
7. 7 Danica Patrick/United States/ Andretti Autosport
8. 8 Paul Tracy/Canada/Dragon Racing
9. 9 Scott Dixon/New Zealand/ Target/Chip Ganassi Racing
10. 10 Dario Franchitti/Scotland/ Target/Chip Ganassi Racing
11. 12 Will Power/Australia/ Penske Racing
12. 14 Vitor Meira/Brazil/ AJ Foyt Racing Enterprises
13. 18 James Jakes/England/ Dale Coyne Racing
14. 19 Sebastien Bourdais/France/Dale Coyne Racing
15. 22 Justin Wilson/England/ Dreyer & Reinbold Racing
16. 24 Ana Beatriz/Brazil/ Dreyer & Reinbold
17. 26 Marco Andretti/United States/ Andretti Autosport
18. 27 Mike Conway/England/Andretti Autosport
19. 28 Ryan Hunter-Reay/United States/Andretti Autosport
20. 34 Sebastian Saavedra/Columbia/ Conquest Racing
21. 38 Graham Rahal/United States/Chip Ganassi Racing
22. 58 EJ Viso/Venezuela/ KV Racing Technology
23. 77 Alex Tagliani/Canada/ Sam Schmidt Racing
24. 78 Simona De Silvestro/Switzerland/ HVM Racing
25. 82 Tony Kanaan/Brazil/ KV Racing Technology
26. 83 Charlie Kimball/United States/ Chip Ganassi Racing

 

2010 Honda Indy of Toronto Video

I'm terribly sorry for the less than regular updates to XSL Speed Reporter. I have been overcoming a very subborn cold which had stolen a great deal of my energy through the past two weeks. My intention is to complete the Naughty and Nice list by the end of this month for most major forms of auto racing. Also I intend to complete the second half of my journal on the 2010 Honda Indy of Toronto. Covering the afternoon of the event, there is some great moments I wish to share on that day.

On the interm, I have just recently posted a video compilation of the race event. Thank you and please keep following into this new year. 

Review of Friday Action at the 2010 Honda Indy of Toronto: Part 1

Photo Credit: Christopher Nagy/XSL Speed Reporter

Alright, being December, I am fully aware that my entry on the 2010 Honda Indy of Toronto is quite late to be considered as current events I want to profile on XSL Speed Reporter. Due to other more pressing writing obligations has diverted my attention away from exercising more creative endeavours on this site. While my intentions is never to withdraw my dedication to completing this Honda Indy of Toronto review, time was never on my side. Being better late than never, I will hopefully allow you to reminiscence of the dog days of summer while much of Canada becomes covered with snow.

Following the productive year I had in 2009, I thought all I needed to do to make this year's coverage perfect was to add more updates and bring sunscreen (it took two weeks after last year's Honda Indy to overcome have serious sunburns on my face, neck and arms). Regrettably, I admit I was unable to attend this year's race in the official capacity of a member of the media. Having been granted the honour of media access last year, this first time experience didn't allow me to fully make use of my press flexibility. It was my intention to avail readers of XSL Speed Reporter to exciting coverage. Maybe representing the latest resurgence of IndyCar after reunification, larger media outlets (including many television stations which were not even present for Friday on 2009) covered the action of the first day of the Honda Indy weekend.

Media vehicles for CHCH TV, CP 24 and CBC were noticeably on attendance
Photo Credit: Christopher Nagy

It would also be a relief that this year's general media presence were a little more accepting of the 2010 Honda Indy of Toronto. The 2009 event was almost slandered by sports writers more familiar with 'stick and ball sports'. More positive of the event, there was still articles questioning the presence of the major Canadian auto race.

As was the case last year, the race promoters did not publicize spectator numbers but I imagine media outlets simply observe the grandstands expecting everyone to be seated throughout the race weekend. For anyone who attends an IZOD IndyCar Series road or street course event, you know that this is unlike many year-round sporting events that last only for a few hours. The Honda Indy of Toronto is a three-day festival which encourages spectators to bask in the sights and sounds of the July atmosphere.

While lacking the press access, my love for the event would allow me to forgive my non-inclusion as a reporter. Coming on Friday for the 2010 Honda Indy weekend, I looked forward to again attend the race action as a spectator. Thanks to Honda Canada had provided a Free Friday promotion (giving patrons a chance to absorb the true amazement of the auto racing action) I can attest anyone attending the race was given almost as much freedom as I had last year in viewing to on-track action. As ambient high temperatures sailed past the mark of 30 degrees Celsius.

Photo of Toronto beautiful skyline
Photo Credit: Christopher Nagy/XSL Speed Reporter

Arriving in the early morning for the CNE grounds via the TTC streetcar, I Iucked out that a gentle rain shower had long ceased with much of the evidence evaporated under mid-summer temperatures that resided inside the 20 degree range. Following a short TTC street car ride, I was enjoying the chance to relish my attendance of the 2010 Honda Indy of Toronto. At the gate, spectators were endorsed to donate fairly to the Make a Wish Foundation Canada. While Free Friday was worth while for fans, there is not one fiber of my being that would not appreciate this charity drive.

After making a proper donation, as did many considerate race fans, I was treated once again to one of the more thorough security checks ever instituted at a sporting event. Bags were checked (which for me pertained to only my camera bag) and food or drink were prohibited beyond the gate. While I give the benefit that this is done for safety, the looks of the concession stand pricing inside the event would definitely need some kind of 'outside food ban' to keep brisk business. But, high prices at food and drink concession stands is only part of the sporting event experience.

As I cleared the front gate to the CNE grounds, my 2010 Honda Indy of Toronto experience started by appraising the paddocks of 6 individual racing series'. Four of the six touring exhibits were found inside of the Direct Energy. Throughout the day, the shelter of the cooler Direct Energy building served some comfort as the July sun and humidity beamed over Toronto. Passing the fleet of Honda Ridgeline trucks destined to parade the drivers of the IZOD IndyCar Series prior to Sunday main event, passage through the Direct Energy Center gave me a look at the Acura World Challenge and Trans-Am on the right side of the building's interior. Far to the left, the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series transporters and teams were assembled.

Inside Direct Energy Centre with Honda Ridgeline ceremonial vehicles in view.
Photo Credit: Christopher Nagy/ XSL Speed Reporter

Becoming a oven-like warm Toronto morning, the grounds of the CNE were ripe with activity. The more stabilized and recognized IZOD IndyCar Series as well as the Free Friday promotion was clearly making an impact on attendance. As perhaps the most assuring signal was the presence of families at the race track taking in this affordable sporting event. Compared to Toronto Blue Jays tickets cost around $50 for cheap seat viewing at the Roger Center or a Toronto Maple Leafs game costing at least $150 to $200, the Honda Indy of Toronto provides refreshingly wallet-friendly trips for parents careful amidst these complicated economic times. Even though concession prices could make lunch a more expensive than usual, the no-charge admission succeeded in offsetting that cost.

As I stepped outside, my ears were ringing with an enchanting sound of race engines bellowing around the temporary 2.84-kilometer (1.765-mile) street circuit. Taking to the track early was the 2010 SCCA World Challenge and Trans-Am series competitors. Knowing that the sports cars were positioned as a supporting attraction to the open wheel racing, the sound of these vehicles echoed the best sound of any car competing during the Honda Indy of Toronto weekend. The sight of Volvo S60, Lexus IS300 as well as Volkswagen GTIs in race trim provided a roar which could be compared to a mix between Formula 1 and a Grand Turismo video game.

Tomy Drissi's Jaguar advertising the future release of the movie
Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps.
Photo Credit: Christopher Nagy/ XSL Speed Reporter

Acura Sports Car Challenge vehicles and SCCA Trans-Am series race cars returned for a second practice during the afternoon ahead of their Saturday afternoon event which saw the Realtime Racing Acura TSX piloted by Peter Cunningham win the GTS class. Randy Pobst took a close 0.821 second victory in the GT Class with a Volvo S60 as Montreal, Quebec's Kuno Wittmer came home 6th in a Dodge Viper. SCCA Trans-Am Series race's pole was snatched by the Jaguar XKR of Tomy Drissi but the Honda Indy of Toronto race was claimed by RJ Lopez (a first-time series win by the Dominican Republic native) and his Corvette by a nealy 9 second margin. Stouffville, Ontario's Blaise Csida retired with only 21 laps on the board with a mechanical problem.

Randy Pobst's K-Pax Volvo S60 on Friday.
Photo Credit: Christopher Nagy/XSL Speed Reporter

Back to Friday morning as the Honda Indy of Toronto was still a memory waiting to happen, the IZOD IndyCar series took to the track for their first practice of the 2010 event. The headliners of the July weekend speed festivities, the array of drivers such as Will Power, Helio Castroneves and Dario Franchitti all returned after running last year's event (the first under the IRL/IndyCar Series structure). It was also the return for 2010 for the 2nd Newman/Haas/Lanigan Racing car driven by Graham Rahal. Of course, being one of two Canadian rounds for the major open wheel racing series, Paul Tracy rejoined the tour alongside French-Canadian regular Alex Tagliani in competition.  Tracy was running his 2nd race of the season after driving for Dreyer and Reinbold Racing at Watkins Glen in place of the injured Mike Conway.

Graham Rahal ahead of his first practice back with NHL Racing for 2010.
Photo Credit: Christopher Nagy/XSL Speed Reporter

Just like the 2009 event, the IZOD IndyCar teams paraded from the paddock area to the pit lane ahead of every session allowing fans to get a look at their favourite Dallara-Honda Indy cars and drivers. Compared to 2009 where Patrick moved like a flash between locations shielded from view, the popular IZOD IndyCar driver turned over a new leaf in respecting the Canadian race fans. Upon my first sight of her ahead of the first IZOD IndyCar series practice, Danica Patrick would walking down gasoline alley smiling as she cheerfully signed a few autographs. Whether the pressures of her sponsors through IndyCar as well as NASCAR in 2010 or an improved mood, the more congenial Danica Patrick was no less than a welcomed inclusion for the 2010 Honda Indy of Toronto.

Danica Patrick embracing her usually abundant fanfare.
Photo Credit: Christopher Nagy/ XSL Speed Reporter 

Danica Patrick along with Simona de Silvestro and Milka Duno were the female composure of a very diverse grid for the 2010 race in Toronto. With the G20 Summit gathering occurring just three weeks prior, the IZOD IndyCar Series presented a rich international representation of drivers from 12 different countries. Even though the Honda V-8 engines buzzed loudly along the Toronto lake shore, its arguable the race action was more peaceful.

The first time to measure up the competition for the event, the one hour session was led by Target/Chip Ganassi Racing's Scott Dixon over Justin Wilson by leading the circuit in 1 minute, 3.9149 seconds. Within several minutes of the green flag being displayed for the 2010 IZOD IndyCar Series cars, the KV Racing #5 car of former Formula 1 driver Takuma Sato lost traction through the final corner backing his car into a retaining wall. Assisted by the safety crew, Sato was able to restart his car suffering a loss of his rear wing. Belgium's Bertrand Baguette also left the first practice session with damage to his #36 Conquest Racing car. Being the first visit to the Toronto circuit, Baguette was continuing a hard-fought rookie campaign in the IZOD IndyCar Series which started at the 3rd race of the 2010 season.

Picture of Takuma Sato's KV Racing #5 car seconds before impacting the
frontstretch wall.
Photo Credit: Christopher Nagy/ XSL Speed Reporter 

Third-fastest in the first practice session, Alex Tagliani and the FAZZT Race Team posted an effort many home country fans were eagerly seeking from the #77 car. Driving the Make a Wish Canada #15 car, Paul Tracy could only muster a 15th place run against 26 cars. Being Canada's drivers, both Tagliani and Tracy appeared to have a higher than usual amount of obligations to press as well as sponsors. Ahead of noon, Alex Tagliani's FAZZT Race Team's presided within the IZOD IndyCar paddock spotted for one media engagement. Getting in and out of his Hot Wheel-sponsored #77 car, an adoring crowd surrounded the Canadian racer.

Alex Tagliani seated in #77 Hot Wheels/FAZZT Race Team car
Photo Credit: XSL Speed Reporter

As the IZOD IndyCar Series left the track, the Firestone Indy Lights support series were next to lap the circuit starting their practice quarter past 11 in the morning. Leading the series points, J.K. Vernay was ahead of Charlie Kimball and Oakville, Ontario native James Hinchcliffe. Personally having the pleasure of interviewing Hinchcliffe ahead of the Honda Indy of Toronto for PRN Magazine, it was clear to me that a Firestone Indy Lights victory on the temporary race track for the 24-year old would be a major career achievement. In preparations for the Toronto 100 race, James Hinchcliffe would claim fastest time in the first practice.

Venturing around the race track all morning, I face much of that time attempting to find a source of refreshments. As I have already singled out the concession stand prices, it may be obvious it was an issue with me. Being a frugal deal-hunter, I have trouble spending almost twice the price for drinks. In hindsight, I probably should have been more willing to forgo an expense. Drinking fountains were few and far between on the CNE grounds with me eventually finding one inside the Direct Energy Center to refill my empty water bottle. Past noon time, I believe I was in the early stages of dehydration as I began to feel ill effect for not bracing for the elements. Clearly, I was alright after sitting down for about an hour inside the Direct Energy Center after recovering some water.

A productive and enjoyable morning at the 2010 Honda Indy, a brief rest reinvigorated me for what would be an even better afternoon.