Grand Prix week has been marked in most Boilermaker's calendars since the beginning of the semester. It's a campus-wide week of activities and shenanigans, all leading up to Grand Prix race day. However, most students choose to forego the race and carry on with the day's festivities. This year though, I want to challenge all students to gather their friends and favorite summer beverages and head out to the track to celebrate what I consider to be the 10 best reasons for the season.
1. It's tradition.
This is the 60th running of the Grand Prix Race and a huge part of Purdue's History! This is the year to check it off your Boilermaker Bucket List.
2. It's way cooler than Little 5.
Sitting in the stands you hear the roaring engines, the crowds cheering, and the smell of burning rubber lingers in the air. It's a full sensory experience that a few bikes just can't provide.
3. It's anyone's race.
The last four years have been dominated by Jimmy Simpson of the Delt's racing team, but with their prized driver gone, anyone can take the lead. Will it be a rookie? Will the Delts continue their streak? You'll have to go and find out!
4. They're bringing back Alumni Races.
Watch some Alumni relive the glory days and race both classic and modern era karts.
5. And the Grand Prix Queen.
This is the first year since 1994 that the Purdue Community will vote to elect a Queen. Purdue students can vote online through BoilerLink until April 19th.
6. You can support your own house or organization.
Pretty much everyone knows someone involved in the race. Whether they're driving, pit crew, or on the board or court, you're sure to find someone you know.
7. It's the last hoorah before finals week.
Take a break from studying and have some fun in the sun before the stress of finals week sets in. You deserve it.
8. It's only $5.
Cheaper than a movie or a Starbucks latte and it lasts longer too! Tickets can be purchased here, but don't delay, tickets are $10 at the door.
9. That $5 goes back to you.
Not directly, but it goes back to Purdue Students that apply for scholarships through the Purdue Grand Prix Foundation.
10. There's free transportation to the race track.
Purdue parking is chaos, and Grand Prix knows that.There are multiple shuttle pickup locations all around campus, so there's really no excuse not to go.
