Driving Sports

Since its introduction nearly 20 years ago, the Miata has been at home on the track, winning hundreds of races. It's equally at home on great roads, like every good sports car. Over 800,000 of the sturdy little roadsters have been built and sold, making the MX-5 Miata the most popular sports car of all time.

Back in 2001, Mazda secured the title sponsorship of the world-class Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca. So what better way to wish the Miata a happy 20th birthday than a two-day event on a famous track, in a region known for some of the most scenic roads in the country?

On March 21st and 22nd, Driving Sports and Miatas from all over the US will be attending Miatas at MRLS for one big birthday party. The main focus is a two-day track event on one of the world's top tracks. Everyone's welcome from novice to expert. Instructors will be on hand for anyone who wants some tuition. Two full days of driving one of the best tracks in the world. It's your chance to dive down the Corkscrew in your Miata, following in the tire tracks of racing legends.

But it's more than just a track weekend. The pits will be full of vendors, including Driving Sports and its Miata-focused print title, Forever MX-5, showing off everything from the latest products for the NC MX-5 to our hottest show and competition cars. If you ask nicely, you might even get to go for a ride! There are also going to be show specials for participants. Various competition Miatas will be on hand along with their drivers to show what the car can do. There will be parade laps available for those who want to take a slightly less frantic look at the track. On Saturday afternoon there will be a big group photo of all the participating Miatas on the front straight of the track. Tours of the stunning Monterey peninsula will also be available for a more relaxed pace and chance to check out one of the most beautiful spots in the world.

Saturday night will feature a big banquet, giving everyone the perfect opportunity for bench racing and general tall tales. The plan is to make it fun, not full of boring speeches – but there will be a few Miata celebrities on hand, including Tom Matano as Grand Marshal. There's also going to be a book signing by Miata expert and Forever MX-5 columnist Keith Tanner.

A legendary track, cool cars, neat toys, fun people, great drives and good food – there's no better way to celebrate 20 years of the world's most popular sports car than to drive it as it's meant to be driven. Admission is free for spectators, and $500 buys you a full weekend of track time. For all the information, hotel details, a timetable, safety requirements and registration call 408-439-7434, e-mail info@MiatasAtMRLS.com or check out MiatasAtMRLS.com There's a limit of 100 cars on the track and the banquet hall is only so big, so don't delay!