The Los Angeles Post

Comerica Free Prix Day Brings Thousands to Belle Isle

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Going to math and science class outside on a sunny, warm day is always a treat, but when that outside class is held during Comerica Free Prix Day at the Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix presented by Lear on Belle Isle, well, that’s pretty awesome.

That’s what happened when several Comerica Bank executives visited Detroit’s Cass Technical High School and surprised a group of female students from Cass Tech’s various STEM clubs, organizations and classes with an invitation from lnternational Motor Sports Association driver Pipo Derani to take a special field trip to Belle Isle on Comerica Free Prix Day.

During their visit the students had a chance to discuss STEM and racing careers with a diverse group of individuals, including Cass Tech graduate Christine Moore, executive vice president and general auditor for Comerica Bank; Laura Klauser, Cadillac Racing program manager; and Michael Montri, general manager of the Chevrolet Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix.

Once they arrived, the students enjoyed a unique behind scenes look at how their science, technology and math skills can be applied to racing.

“There’s a lot of math and science that goes into racing so we’re hoping the young ladies are going to be inspired and maybe pick careers that aren’t traditional,” said Comerica Bank Senior Vice President of External Affairs Monica Martinez. “We definitely need more young women to be inspired by careers in racing and this is one way that we’re involved with it. It’s an amazing opportunity.”

This was the seventh straight year Comerica Bank and the Chevrolet Grand Prix brought Detroit students to Belle Isle for a unique learning experience amid the excitement, sounds and fun of IndyCar racing. Past recipients of a Comerica Free Prix field trip were girls from the Detroit International Academy for Young Women; Cody High School’s Detroit Institute of Technology; and Martin Luther King, Jr. High School and University Prep Science & Math Middle School students.

Aside from the student field trips, Comerica Free Prix Day has become a real tradition for many families who come onto Belle Isle, enjoy the atmosphere, the food and music. Over 25,000 in all.

“There are families that attend every Comerica Free Prix Day,” Martinez said. “Some people say it’s the official start of summer. We’re really happy about it.”

Comerica Bank Michigan President Mike Ritchie said it’s an honor to collaborate with the Detroit Grand Prix and offer the community the opportunity to experience up-close one of Michigan’s biggest and unique attractions.

“To see so many families visit Belle Isle and take part in all the exciting activities available throughout the day has been such a joy over the past six years,” Ritchie said.