From Toronto to Markham: 40 Years of IndyCar History

Ontario Honda Dealers Indy at Markham begins a new chapter for IndyCar racing in Canada, moving a summer motorsports tradition from Toronto to the streets of Markham after nearly 40 years. Todd looks back at his personal history with the race, from attending his first Toronto Indy in 1988 to covering some of its biggest moments as a broadcaster. He recalls victories from Al Unser Jr., Michael Andretti and Paul Tracy, including Tracy’s memorable 1993 win and Andretti’s remarkable seventh Toronto victory in 2001. The story also traces the event’s evolution from the Molson Indy through the Champ Car era, reunification and the Honda Indy years. Todd explains the pressures that eventually made continuing at Exhibition Place increasingly difficult and why organizers Green Savoree turned to Markham. With Markham committing to the event for five years, Todd considers what fans can expect from the new street circuit, why Canadian Tire Motorsport Park wasn’t the solution, and why the move creates an opportunity to build new traditions around one of Canada’s major motorsports events. Chapters 00:00 – A new chapter for the Indy 01:58 – Toronto Indy memories and Paul Tracy 04:23 – From fan to IndyCar broadcaster 06:41 – Why the race had to leave Toronto 09:04 – Building a new tradition in Markham Follow Speed Chronicles every Wednesday on your favorite podcast platform and the REV TV YouTube channel. Like the video, subscribe to the channel, and tell us what you think about the move to Markham. Are you excited about the new circuit, and what are your favorite memories from the Toronto Indy?