Toyota Grand Prix kicks off in Long Beach

LONG BEACH, Calif. (KABC) -- The 42nd Toyota Grand Prix in Long Beach kicks off Saturday and Sunday.

California native Alexander Rossi is a rookie this year, piloting the No. 98 IndyCar.

"This is one of the highlight races of the season behind the (Indy) 500. It's an amazing venue and the racing is always really strong here," he said.

Unlike permanent race tracks, the nearly 2-mile court is laid out on actual city streets, and it is always a fan favorite. It's even a family tradition for San Pedro resident Mark Munoz, who brings his son to the races.

"Living across the bridge in San Pedro, living so close - it feels like home," he said.

The event also features a celebrity and professional race done for charity, and it will be the 40th and final year for the long-running event.

There's a different wrinkle this year for the celebrity competitors - no rookies. All the drivers are previous winners of the event.

Race officials said the bittersweet farewell event will feature a special cast of competitors, who are mostly past winners.