Local businesses participate in Great Lakes Grand Prix

Nearly a hundred thousand people turned up for the 7th annual Great Lakes Grand Prix in Michigan City.

The event was complete with boat races, beach games, entertainment, and great local food.

Event organizers say they are expecting a record year in terms of both attendance and local economic impact.

With all of the vendors being from LaPorte County, they are finding that the event can help their businesses long after the boats sail away.

“The crowds yesterday were tremendous. I’ve heard estimates today that there were crowds in excess of 100,000,” said Sgt. Darren Kaplan, Michigan City Police Department.

Although there’s a waiting list for vendors to set up shop at the Grand Prix, one local business was able to participate in the event for the first time with their new food truck.

“We are trying to advertise Blue Chip's food venues so we are here representing Blue Chip. I think its been really great, it's close to home. It really gets the community out knowing that we’re a part of the community,” Lindsey Rakwski, Sous Chef at Blue Chip Casino.

The King of the Road food truck has served up good eats to customer after customer this weekend.

They hope with every bite, those customers will come back for more. 

“With the King of the Road being in Michigan City, it’s getting local people involved and then they can come back to the casino and try the food on site,” said Rakwski.

Although the weekend is centered around boating fun and booming business the community is benefiting also.

“That’s a dual thing for the community and then of course it creates more interest, for the boats and the boat races,” said Sgt. Kaplan.