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WXYZ Editorial: Roger Penske's "Grand Prix" vision of Detroit paying off big dividends

Posted at 7:03 PM, May 25, 2017
and last updated 2017-05-25 19:52:40-04

Back in 2006, The Motor City hosted a sporting event viewed around the world.  Businessman Roger Penske, affectionately called “The Captain,” served as Chairman of the Detroit’s Super Bowl  XL Host Committee.  

His Super Bowl success really got his civic juices following!

Teamed up with the Downtown Detroit Partnership, Penske then brought the high profile Grand Prix back to Belle Isle.  Looking back, his leadership of the Super Bowl and vision for other things possible in Detroit, was a critical catalyst for the many revitalization efforts we now see throughout our city.  The Grand Prix is just one of those by-products. 

Next weekend, we encourage you to come out and support world-class motor sports racing and Detroit’s renewed downtown.  The Chevrolet Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix presented by Lear Corporation, will have a $40 million impact on our local economy.  It is also responsible for several million in Belle Isle infrastructure improvements.   We are proud to be the official broadcast partner supporting the race. 

The Grand Prix is much more than cars and trucks racing around a track.  It’s an opportunity to take in the live music attractions, explore the new and old restaurants, ride the Q-Line or simply take a memorable photo in front of the restored Scott Fountain inside Michigan’s beautiful state park.   

How exciting it is to see all of this activity in the “D”.  Hotels are sold out.  New ones are opening up.  Others are being constructed.  

Now all we need are the grandstands and chalets to be packed for the nationally televised Indy Car races.  Come down and enjoy the race.  Detroit and how the world perceives us will be in the spotlight.  You can catch all of the action right here on Channel 7, your official Grand Prix station. 

But most of all, Grand Prix week is a “call to action” for everyone who loves this city to be great ambassadors to our out of town guests.  Show our “Comeback City” pride and extend our “Auto Capital of the World” welcome mat to all!  

I’m Mike Murri, Vice President & General Manager
Broadcast: May 25 - 28, 2017