By Lynne Huntting
40 representatives from Indianapolis Motor Speedway flew in the corporate jet to Monterey for the day to observe, learn and soak up the world of
MotoGP, in preparation for its inaugural event in September.
Kevin Forbes, Indianapolis Motor Speedway director of Engineering and Construction, was at Laguna Seca Wednesday and Thursday. He oversaw the project of converting and constructing the new, 2.601-mile IMS road course to be used for the motorcycle race.
It was completed before this year's Indianapolis 500, but Forbes said "This really isn't a massive project, but it's a very, very delicate project."
Also at Laguna Seca, for the entire weekend, is Bob Pierson, whose title for the IMS USGP is race chairman. His experience in this role dates back to the very first Detroit Grand Prix
Formula One race. He said it's been a very interesting weekend.
While FIM (Federation Internationale de Motocyclisme) is much like Formula One and
FIA (Federation International de Automobile), Pierson said there is more of a commercial and business atmosphere with FIM. He was impressed with all the hospitality, business and vendor displays associated with this weekend's event.
Other visitors this weekend include Indianapolis business people and media.
