Will Power came away with his first win of the season in the Chevy Dual II race at the Chevrolet Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix.
While the rain and wind held off for the so-called "big race" of the three-day event, Power admits it's one of the most challenging courses on the circuit.
Will Power wins Chevy Dual II race at Chevrolet Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix, June 5, 2016. (Photo by Adelle Loiselle)
"There're some pretty high commitment corners which is unusual for a street course," says Power. "Here, you've got some really fast fourth and fifth gear corners."
And that takes a toll on a driver's body.
"Definitely a brutal track on your arms, neck, and everything really," he says. "I think they will grind it next year actually, probably grind some bumps down."
The race attracted fans, and non-fans alike. For Paul Hage, it's the attractions off the course that bring them out.
"Interesting to see how they take the cars apart and work on them and really take them down to nothing. They'll put it back together and probably race them later on."
Chevrolet Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix, June 5, 2016. (Photo by Adelle Loiselle)
The event also featured BMX bike demonstrations, and a performance by funk-fusion band Morris Day and the Time.
Detroit's Belle Isle has a history of racing. In 1992 to 2001 it hosted the Championship Auto Racing Teams. In 2007, $13-million was spent to improve the track. It took a four-year hiatus and returned in 2012. Attendance is typically 95,000, and the race generates $47-million in total spending for the local economy.
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