Racing Legends Taking Part in IROC Event at Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion

Several racing legends, including Jeff Gordon, Mark Martin, Bill Elliott, Ken Schrader, Bobby Labonte, Danny Sullivan and Scott Pruett, will compete in the IROC race group during the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca on August 13-16.

The collection of former IROC competitors will pilot authentic cars from the history of the International Race of Champions, which took place from 1974 to 2006.

“I think this is the first time several of these drivers, including Jeff Gordon, have raced at Laguna Seca, and to do so during the renowned Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion is something I know they will enjoy,” said IROC co-owner Ray Evernham. “I’m also excited to give fans the opportunity to get up close and personal with our drivers and the incredible group of IROC cars that will be on display.”

Al Unser, Jr. will be the honorary pace car driver for the event, adding to the star power on hand for the historic occasion.

McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown and Friends of Laguna Seca Vice President Bruce Canepa will also be part of the race. Brown recently acquired a 1977 Chevrolet IROC Camaro previously driven by the likes of Cale Yarborough, Darrell Waltrip, Alan Jones, Clint Eastwood, Gene Hackman, James Brolin and Paul Newman. Canepa will pilot a Dodge Avenger formerly driven by Dale Earnhardt, George Follmer, Emerson Fittipaldi, Richard Petty among others.

“I’m so pumped that they’re bringing back the iconic IROC series, when we used to be able to answer the question of who was the best of the best! Can’t wait to get it out on the track,” Brown announced on social media.

Martin was the most successful driver in the IROC series, leading in both championships (5) and race wins (13). Labonte claimed the 2001 IROC championship.

Gordon won 93 races and four championships in the NASCAR Cup Series during his hall-of-fame career. Elliott won the 1988 Cup Series championship, with 44 victories in NASCAR's premier series. Schrader won four Cup Series events in his diverse racing career, which includes championships in USAC's Silver Crown and National Sprint Car Series.

Sullivan claimed the 1988 CART championship, while Pruett is a multi-time champion in American road racing, including five victories in the Rolex 24 at Daytona.

The IROC compound will be located inside the race paddock during the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion, offering fans a chance to speak with owners and drivers and walk by the historic racing machines.

“We want to engage with fans and make their visit one to remember,” said Evernham. “There will be autograph sessions, panel discussions and special merchandise available.”

The IROC group will be one of 14 groups competing in the prestigious Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion, including a celebration of the 75th anniversary of Formula 1 racing. Individual and multi-day tickets, VIP hospitality packages and camping can be found online at WeatherTechRaceway.com or by calling the tickets and accommodations specialists at 831-242-8200.

-Photo credit: Brian Smith, TobyChristie.com