Green Grand Prix Plans Double Header in 2009

WATKINS GLEN, NY February 10, 2009: Drivers of alternate fueled vehicles, hybrids and fuel-efficient, gasoline-powered cars will have two unique opportunities to test their vehicles – and have a lot of fun while doing it – at the 5th Annual Green Grand Prix in Watkins Glen on May 2.

This year, organizers are offering the event’s signature road rally through the region, as well as a new fuel economy competition.

The participatory events are part of a daylong celebration of sustainable transportation. The Green Grand Prix is based at the International Motor Racing Research Center (www.racingarchives.org) on South Decatur Street in Watkins Glen and at the adjacent Watkins Glen school district grounds.

Activities include educational displays, speakers, cars on show, exhibits, music and food.

Both road events are open to anyone, and organizers anticipate vehicles that will include all hybrid models, plug-in hybrids, hydrogen fuel cell cars and cars running on biodiesel, diesel, flex-fuel and pure electric. Organizers also expect many other interesting alternate fueled vehicles, such as those powered by vegetable oil, as well as by LP and compressed natural gas.

The Doris Bovee Memorial Road Rally is the only official Sports Car Club of America road rally of its kind in the nation. The time-speed-distance rally covers more than 60 miles of scenic roadways

It honors the memory of well-known area environmentalist Doris Bovee, who taught for many years in the Corning-Painted Post school district and was known for her love of plants and birds. She also was involved with SCCA road rallies and was part of the Glen Region SCCA (www.glen-scca.org) at its inception.

After they return to the village, rally drivers and their navigators will park at the Racing Research Center.

The new ChicagoSoft Green Grand Prix Fuel Economy Run will offer its competitors the opportunity to set fuel economy records in various categories around the 80-mile perimeter of Seneca Lake. Fuel Economy Run entrants also will return to the Racing Research Center to take part in afternoon festivities.

Many sustainable energy and environmental displays and activities are planned between 1-5 p.m. All events bring together a diverse mix of vehicles and their owners, businesses promoting renewable energy and related products, environmental groups, students and faculty members from elementary to university level and the general public.

This year, the Schuyler County Earth Day celebration is partnering with the Green Grand Prix, with a focus on Green Energy.

All afternoon activities and displays are free and open to the public.

“This fun and exciting educational event emphasizes energy independence and a cleaner environment,” said Green Grand Prix founder Robert Gillespie, an area artist and hybrid owner who is passionate about increasing awareness of the vehicles.

The SCCA has a long association with world-renowned Watkins Glen, which has hosted competitive racing events for more than 60 years.

Entries are now being accepted for the Doris Bovee Memorial Road Rally and the ChicagoSoft Green Grand Prix Fuel Economy Run. Online registration and other information can be found at www.greengrandprix.com. Entry fees are tax-deductible, as all Green Grand Prix activities are not-for profit.