Unforgettable Racing Ghosts of Mazda’s Glory Days Haunt Laguna Seca’s Challenging Monterey Airport Track

Uncovering a Hidden Gem at the Monterey Regional Airport: The Mysterious Case of the Mazda Stanchions

Every summer, the world’s automotive enthusiasts flock to the California Central Coast to experience the thrill of Monterey Car Week. Amidst the excitement, many travelers arriving at the Monterey Regional Airport (MRY) forget to notice the lesser-known attractions within their surroundings. As it turns out, the TSA, too, has a fascinating connection to the world of motorsports.

A Zoom-Zoom Process: Unveiling the Mystery

Passing through security at MRY is surprisingly quick and efficient. Literally, the stanchions used by TSA agents are emblazoned with the Mazda logo and its iconic "Zoom-Zoom" tagline. How did that happen? Was there a fire sale at the former Mazda Raceway? Or did someone simply forget about them? We may never know for certain, but it’s clear that someone on the events team forgot about the Mazda connection.

[Image: Mazda stanchions at MRY]

A Brief History of Mazda’s Involvement in Racing

Since 1957, Laguna Seca Raceway has been the go-to venue for auto racing on the Monterey Peninsula. From 2000 to 2018, Mazda held naming rights to the track, which was officially referred to as Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca. During this partnership, the track featured distinctive blue and white track curbing.

As someone who worked for Mazda during part of this period, I recall the excitement surrounding the brand’s presence at the airport, which showcased popular models like the MX-5 and CX-5. Unfortunately, Mazda’s involvement in professional racing dwindled, and they eventually left the scene after the 2021 IMSA season. However, the MX-5 Cup is still going strong, hinting at a potential comeback in the world of motorsports.

A Piece of History at MRY: Mazda’s Legacy Lives On

Despite the lack of high-profile racing events, a small corner of the airport still bears witness to Mazda’s nostalgia. Stop and smell the stanchions, and you might just notice the faint aroma of Zoom-Zoom’s heyday. For those who fondly remember the brand’s racing exploits, this unique find is a loving nod to the past.

So, the next time you pass through MRY, take a moment to appreciate this quirky reminder of Laguna Seca’s rich history and Mazda’s motorsports heritage.