Since its debut back in 2005, the Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg has been a popular race for drivers and fans alike. The 14 turn, 1.8 mile long, asphalt track marked the first non-oval circuit for the Indy Racing League. With the track’s evasive cornering and extensive straightaways incorporating streets of downtown St. Pete and a segment of runway of Albert Whitted Airport, the track has been one of the most favorites (and most challenging) courses for the drivers and some of the best drivers have returned every year since.
Back for another year, from March 22nd – 24th, the official race is scheduled to go green at noon on March 24th, and 11th grader Alexis Leverock, is excited and gearing up for the spectacle.
Leverock, who is a die-hard motorsports fan and a dedicated racecar driver herself, is quite familiar with the feelings drivers feel behind the wheel.
“It’s exhilarating. The adrenaline starts pumping when you’re in the car and when other people are trying to pass you,” Lexi said.
Leverock’s favorite part of these races is the fact that IndyCars are completely different from other racing vehicles, such as her own racing vehicle.
“I race 4 cylinder bombers which are normal street cars just gutted out. I like the fact that the cars (IndyCars) are different from other cars.”
Though Leverock has never been to an IndyCar race in person, she is happy to go with a friend for the first time.
“I’ve never been before. One of my friends is taking me,” she said.
Rookie drivers also look up to big time drivers in: Formula 1, NASCAR and even the IndyCar racing series, and Leverock is no different.
“Definitely anyone from the Stewart-Hass racing like Tony Stewart or Danica Patrick, who is the best female driver.”
More information about the race event can be found here at the official Grand Prix of St. Pete website and here at the official IZOD IndyCar website. Information about 4 cylinder bombers can be found here.