Castroneves Collects Win, Fans Give Belle Isle Grand Prix Big Thumbs Up

DETROIT (WWJ) - Michigan's governor was among the several dignitaries on hand at the start of Sunday's Belle Isle Grand Prix.

"This is Detroit Michigan, we are showing-off today, let's be loud and proud and have a great time at this wonderful event," opened Gov. Snyder.

An enthusiastic crowd of race-goers told WWJ's Sandra McNeill that they loved the race and plan to return to the event again in coming years.

"This is my first time out here at Belle Isle but I've been downtown - but it's awesome out here," said Mitch Prine. "It's a good time out here."

"It's a great day and it's great weather and great people," declared Mayor Mike Duggan during the race.

Mayor Duggan thanked the hundreds of people who volunteered and called the day a great success.

Terry Swick of Salem said it was a job well done this year.

"It's been a good time so far," said Swick. "(The island) is fantastic, everything is in order. It was easy to get in - all the greeters are friendly - it's been a good time so far."

With a report due out this week on an internal investigation about the GM ignition switch issue, GM's CEO Mary Barra did not talk to the media.

With a lead so large he was able to make a pit stop and still return to his place in first, Helio Castroneves, collected his 29th victory of his career, and the win for the second Grand Prix race of the weekend.

On Saturday, Detroit businessman, IndyCar team owner and race promoter Roger Penske celebrated a win on Belle Isle.

Will Power, driver of the No. 12 IndyCar of Team Penske, took the checkered flag during the first of two races in the "Chevrolet: Duel in Detroit" on Belle Isle on Saturday.