General Information

The Monterey Peninsula's love affair with world-class racing traces its beginning to 1950 and the inaugural running of the Pebble Beach Road Races. Those sports car events through the winding roads of the Del Monte Forest became immensely popular and brought prestige, fans and money to the area. But as the cars got faster and the crowds grew larger, it was decided that the race was too big for the open road. Rather than see the event, with its fans and financial impact go elsewhere, a group of civic-minded business leaders decided to build a permanent, world-class racing facility.

This was the impetus behind the formation of the Sports Car Racing Association of the Monterey Peninsula (SCRAMP) on November 1, 1956. The non-profit group's mission, which remains unchanged today, is to benefit local charitable and non-profit organizations and to promote the economic vitality of Monterey through motorsports events. The group leased Fort Ord land from the Army, built the circuit and staged its first race on November 9, 1957.

Since that day, events at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca have generated more than $1 billion in revenue for area businesses, while providing over $10 million for more than 100 charitable and civic groups. Today, SCRAMP is the most important economic and charitable organization in Monterey County.

Imagine yourself on the beautiful Monterey Peninsula. Breathtaking views, cypress trees adorning the coastline, dramatic cliffs and the gorgeous Monterey Bay.

Imagination becomes reality before and after the races. While you're in Monterey County, you'll find a wide variety of activities to enjoy. Play a round of golf on one of 20 championship courses. Browse through hundreds of art galleries. Sail the bay or scuba dive. Visit the old adobes of Monterey, or stroll Fisherman's Wharf and historic Cannery Row - immortalized by John Steinbeck. Get lost in the wonder of the world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium, or spend time tasting award winning wines as you tour Monterey County's outstanding vineyards.

Visit the historic Victorian homes and country inns of picturesque Pacific Grove, poised proudly against the rugged Monterey coastline. See the gentility of a quaint European village in Carmel-by-the-Sea. While you're there, don't miss the Carmel Mission, founded in 1770.

Night life in downtown Monterey kicks into overdrive on race weekends. There is a wide variety of clubs, restaurants and lounges to choose from. Hot spots range from old English style pubs to the most state-of-the-art dance clubs, ready for you to put on your boogie shoes and dance the night away.

All this, plus a comfortable year round climate, adds up to the perfect place to spend your race weekend excursion. Come early, stay late and enjoy all that this wonderful area has to offer.

Additional information about Monterey can be found on the following web sites: LYCOS City Guide, Monterey County Parks Department, and the Monterey County Convention & Visitors Bureau.