VIRginia International Raceway is putting the finishing touches on this year’s Oak Tree Grand Prix TUDOR United SportsCar Championship. Kicking off the racing action will be Dr. Timothy Sands, president of Virginia Tech, and Mr. Mike Mansuetti, president of BOSCH North America. Together they will serve as Grand Marshals for the Aug. 21-23 race weekend.
Sands, who is the 16th leader of the Hokies, graduated from the University of California, Berkley with a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, followed by a Master’s and then a Doctorate in Materials Science. He also served as Vice President for academic affairs and provost of Purdue University in West Lafayette. Sands has more than 250 published articles for his work and holds 20 patents in electronic and optoelectronic materials and devices.
Mansuetti came to lead BOSCH North America with a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Clemson University in South Carolina. He began his career with BOSCH and quickly began moving up the ladder. In July 2012, Mansuetti became the president of BOSCH North America. He works closely with the business units and sales organizations to guide the regional growth strategy with focus on cross divisional business opportunities.
Sands and Mansuetti will watch as teams test their abilities against VIR’s incredibly challenging 3.27 mile road course. The historic weekend is the only all GT TUDOR race on the 2015 schedule and will provide unparalleled access to cars and drivers with open paddock areas as well as free Fan Walk and autograph sessions. In addition to the Oak Tree Grand Prix race, the weekend boasts racing action for three straight days including support series events from Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge, Porsche GT3 Cup, Lamborghini Super Trofeo and Maserati Trofeo World Series.
This three-day event is a surefire way to keep you entertained and on the edge of your seat. In addition to the racing action, the track also offers other onsite amenities to pass the time. VIR has a 5/8 mile kart track, restaurant, concessions, a pub and full service spa to name just a few.
Advanced tickets prices start at just $40 and are available for purchase online. All tickets are $10 higher at the gate during the event. Children 12 and under are admitted free of charge. To purchase advanced tickets or to learn more, visit: https://virnow.com/events/oak-tree-grand-prix/.