Grand-Am kicks off at Austin's COTA

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Thousands of race car fans from across the world took to Austin's Circuit of the Americas racetrack Saturday!

It’s only the second big race hosted at the track since it opened last November. 

The Grand-Am series will be a big change from Formula One Racing, starting with the fan experience.

Saturday’s race was definitely all about the fans. The Grand-am series gives racecar lovers the chance to get up close and personal.

Fans were able to get on the track, snapping pictures with drivers and getting the full pit stop experience. For many people it was their first time at the track since it opened. By the looks of it everyone seemed to be impressed at what they saw, even the drivers.

“With all the tracks I’ve been too and all the tracks I’ve raced at this is by far the most beautiful well thought out track with out a doubt in the nation,” Grand-Am Racecar Driver Scott Pruett said.

It’s a chance for the fans to feel the real experience of COTA.

“Down here we get to interact with the drivers, [and] the pit crew pose for pictures,” said racing fan Karen O’ Bren.