‘Race at the Base’ Draws Crowds of Car Lovers and Ship Fans to North Island

Celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Navy SEALs, Fleet Week Coronado Speed Festival returned Saturday to North Island Naval Air Station. Dubbed the “Race at the Base,” the 15th annual event drew a large crowd as visitors watched qualifying races, examined vechicles at the seventh annual car show, took test drives, toured ships and viewed displays of jets and helicopters.

Ships available for touring were the guided missile destroyers Halsey and Spruance and the amphibious assault ship Makin Island.

Opening ceremonies, featuring the Navy Leap Frogs parachute team and flyovers, will be held at 11:50 a.m. Sunday.

Tickets are $25 for adults 13 and older. Children and active military and their dependents are admitted free. Food and drink vendors are available near the race track.