A Ferrari Formula 1 car on display at The Starting Grid Luncheon. Photo by Mike Boone.

The following is by AGP friend Mike Boone. Mike is an active participant in the Austin motorsports scene and contributes to this site from time to time. He attended The Starting Grid Luncheon and had this to share about his experience.  

The official countdown to the 2012 Formula 1 United States Grand Prix™ kicked off in Austin, Texas on Thursday with a celebratory luncheon. Hollywood legend and two-time Academy Award®-winning director Ron Howard entertained a packed house, while serving as guest speaker for The Starting Grid luncheon at Austin’s Downtown Hilton Hotel.