Chris Pook is the former travel agent who had the wild idea of staging a Formula One race through the city streets of Long Beach. Between himself, Dan Gurney, Jim Michaelian and a number of others who were critical in getting this event started, they all overcame numerous obstacles in trying to make his dream a reality. This iconic event will celebrate its 50^th Anniversary on April 11-13, 2025. At the 2024 Long Beach Motorsports Walk of Fame ceremony (where he has also been inducted), he was gracious enough to spend some time with us and tell us about the challenges the event faced getting off the ground, some of the key moments that made it a success (including key people), and how it’s endured all these years. In looking forward to this incredible 50-year milestone, there’s nobody more qualified to talk about it than he is. Enjoy!

NOTE: Jim Michaelian will be inducted into the LBMWoF on Thursday, April 10, 2025.

By Larry Mason

Copyright © 2025 Larry Mason

Relaxed in semi-retirement, Chris Pook shares a warm smile and an incredible tale of challenges and success for the biggest race for the NTT INDYCAR SERIES outside of the Indianapolis 500.

Interview and photos Copyright © by Larry Mason (unless otherwise noted)