Canadian Armed Forces join in celebrating 30 years of racing in Toronto

CAF will be honoured in pre-race ceremonies for Verizon IndyCar Series race

TORONTO, ON, July 17, 2016 Organizers of the 2016 Honda Indy Toronto announce that the Canadian Armed Forces will lead the ceremonies, participating in all VIP roles during the pre-race celebrations for the marquee Verizon IndyCar Series race that runs this afternoon at Exhibition Place.

Led by a military G Wagon, a group of 300 active military reservists representing the Royal Canadian Navy, Canadian Army and Royal Canadian Air Force will kick off the ceremonies by conducting a march past along the track to salute the race fans.

Major General Mike Rouleau, Commander of Canada’s Special Operations Forces will serve as Grand Marshal, giving the celebrated “drivers, start your engines” command and Sgt. Darryl Casselman of the Royal Highland Fusiliers will sing both the Canadian and US national anthems

Fans will be thrilled to see Two CF-18 Hornets from the 425 Tactical Fighter Squadron based out of CFB Bagotville, Quebec fly over the track following the performance of the national anthem. Members of the Royal Canadian Navy flag party from HMCS YORK will present the colours for the feature race.

“We are so proud to be able to say this special ‘thank you’ to the men and women who serve us all so well,” said Jeff Atkinson, president of the Honda Indy Toronto. “We are thrilled that they are joining us to celebrate 30 years of racing on the streets of Toronto with such an impactful presence.”

A decorated military member will serve as the honourary starter and will wave the Green Flag at the Start/Finish line as 3:15 p.m. this afternoon to officially start the 85-lap race for the 2016 Honda Indy Toronto.