THE CATALINA GRAND PRIX 2010

The impossible dream has indeed become a reality!!   This epic race that occurred from 1951 through 1958 that all the experts agreed could never happen again has been resurrected and is scheduled for December 4th and 5th 2010. With the support of the City of Avalon, especially the mayor and city manager, the Santa Catalina Island Company, and the residents and merchants of this magical isle, this great event will again take place.

Thanks are also due to some monumental efforts by Vinnie Mandzak, a racer/announcer for the Big 6 Series, and Buddy Minuto, a racer/participant in the series and a fireman who lives in Avalon, who initiated discussions regarding the possibility of once again racing on Catalina Island.  On May 4, 2010 the Avalon City Council voted 5-0 to approve a one time event and allow this epic race to again grace the island. Today’s racers will have an opportunity to experience the thrill of a lifetime, participating in a race that last occurred over 50 years ago which they’ve only heard discussed by their fathers and grandfathers.

The race will be AMA sanctioned and under the direction and leadership of “My Cuz Vinnie Promotions” LLC, with Vinnie Mandzak operating as the race promoter.  Vinnie will be assisted by the seven District 37 Clubs who each are responsible for a race in the Big 6 Series, the largest amateur Grand Prix series in the United States.  These seven clubs represent over 350 years of race history and promotion of off-road races.  All seven clubs will be working together in a cooperative effort to ensure this race will indeed be a memorable one for years to come for all involved - both racers and spectators.

The announcement of this unheralded and unique event has the entire motorcycle community buzzing with excitement. It is expected this event will attract approximately 10,000 to 15,000 spectators. National and local TV coverage is currently being negotiated. However, sponsoring this historical event on an island 26 miles away also brings with it many logistical challenges such as transporting over a thousand motorcycles to Avalon, placing them in an impound area for a week or more, and the security needed to watch over the bikes while in impound.  Security also will take a high priority insuring the safety of the spectators as the race course winds through the streets of the town and the outlying areas. 

Catalina Grand Prix 1951

Catalina Grand Prix 1952

Catalina Grand Prix 1954

Catalina Grand Prix 1956

Catalina Grand Prix 1957

The Catalina Grand Prix 2010 (Registration Coming Soon)