SONOMA, California -- Al Unser, who competed in the only major open-wheel race in the history of Infineon Raceway, will return to the Sonoma Valley as Grand Marshall of the Argent Mortgage Indy Grand Prix at Infineon Raceway, Aug. 26-28.
Unser placed third in 1970 at then-Sears Point Raceway in the USAC IndyCar 150, behind race-winner Dan Gurney and second-place Mario Andretti. The New Mexico resident is looking forward to returning to the twisting road course as Grand Marshall – this will mark the first event on a permanent road course in the 10-year history of the IRL.
“I’ve always liked running in Sonoma,” Unser said. “Boy, I remember that race back in 1970 pretty well. There were things on the car that didn’t go right that day and it showed because we were out-run by Gurney. He was strong.”
Unser will be honored during the race weekend in Sonoma on Friday, Aug. 26, at the 1st IRL Grand Marshall’s Banquet at the beautiful Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn. All proceeds from the banquet will benefit El Nido Teen Center in Sonoma through Speedway Children’s Charities, the charitable arm of Infineon Raceway. Unser will also participate in pre-race ceremonies on Sunday, Aug. 28.
“That’s a heck of a racetrack and I know all the drivers are looking forward to coming out there,” Unser said. “I’m real honored to be there and I think the people of Northern California are really going to enjoy the show.”
Unser holds the distinction of being one of only three drivers who have won the prestigious Indianapolis 500 four times. He posted 39 victories, 27 poles and more than $6 million in earnings during his legendary career. He retired in 1992. One of Unser’s most memorable seasons came in 1970 when he edged his brother, Bobby Unser, for the championship. He won 10 races that year, including the Indianapolis 500, and he also earned seven poles and was named Driver of the Year.
Great tickets are still available for the Argent Mortgage Indy Grand Prix by calling 800-870-RACE or visiting www.infineonraceway.com or www.ticketmaster.com. For more information on the IRL Grand Marshall’s Banquet, email Denise Silver at dsilver@infineonraceway.com.
