Motorsports Venues - Honda Indy Toronto Announces Aykroyd As Grand Marshal

June 22, 2011: Honda Indy Toronto is pleased to announce that Canadian actor Dan Aykroyd will serve as Grand Marshal to its 2011 event, celebrating 25 years of racing on the streets of Toronto.

The multi-talented Aykroyd is a comedian, actor, screenwriter, musician and winemaker. He has had an extensive career that includes his role as an original cast member on Saturday Night Live, creator of The Blues Brothers and Ghostbusters. An Ottawa native, Aykroyd was made a member of the Order of Canada and has been inducted into Canada’s Walk of Fame, honouring him for his contributions to the entertainment industry.

“I’m delighted to be a part of an event with so much history,” said Aykroyd. “I’m a long-time race fan and very proud to be Canadian. It’ll be nice to come home and take in a spectacular day of racing.”

When the 2011 IZOD IndyCar Series stops in Toronto on Sunday, July 10, Aykroyd will perform the standard Grand Marshal duties that include giving the famous “drivers, start your engines” command to start the afternoon’s race. Aykroyd will also meet the IZOD IndyCar Series drivers, tour the INDYCAR paddocks and take a pace car ride. His participation will also include promotional considerations for his Crystal Head brand of vodka.

“We are delighted to have Dan on board,” said Charlie Johnstone, Vice President and General Manager of Honda Indy Toronto. “Dan has the type of character that resonates with all Canadians. He is a big supporter of events across the country, and he will no doubt make for a great ambassador to the Honda Indy Toronto.”

Aykroyd’s participation is the result of INDYCAR’s increased efforts to elevate the profile of North America’s premier open-wheel racing series. INDYCAR Entertainment has worked with promoters in race cities this season to invite celebrity race enthusiasts such as Aykroyd, Gordon Ramsay, Patrick Warburton, Omar Miller, Zach Levi, Jeffrey Donovan, Jillian Michaels and others to illustrate its appeal to mainstream audiences.