Portland Historic Races celebrates Women in Motorsports

Portland Historic Races celebrates Women in Motorsports as a special feature at this summer's event

PORTLAND, Ore. - Feb. 26, 2008 - There have been many notable women drivers in the elite history of motorsports racing, from Helle Nice in the 1920s to Janet Guthrie in the 1970s to Danica Patrick today. In celebration of their skill and resolute determination, the Portland Historic Races has named "Women in Motorsports" as a featured race of this summer's 32nd annual event. The Portland Historic Races will take place July 11 through 13 at Portland International Raceway, 1940 N Victory Blvd.

The Portland Historic Races features an annual entry list of more than 200 prestigious historic race cars, ranging from Alfa Romeo to Zink Formula Vee, all of which have been restored to the way they were when they originally raced decades ago. The cars are divided into groups according to make, age and horsepower, then raced at high speeds to their full potential, delighting enthusiasts just as they did in their heyday. One of these groups will be comprised solely of female drivers; the Portland Historic Races typically features at least a dozen women behind the wheel.

The 2008 Portland Historic Races will also highlight the Historic Stock Car Racing Series with a field of nearly two-dozen historic stock cars.

At most racing events, the public wouldn't dream of seeing the race cars up close. However, the Portland Historic Races features an open paddock, allowing fans the opportunity to walk right up to the cars, some of which are the most historic and valuable sports and racing cars in the world. Interaction with the drivers and crews is highly encouraged.