PORTLAND, Ore. — There have been many notable women drivers in the history of motorsports racing, from Helle Nice in the 1920s to Janet Guthrie in the 1970s to Danica Patrick today. In celebration of their skill and resolute determination, the Portland Historic Races has named “Women in Motorsports” as a featured race at this summer’s 32nd annual event. The Portland Historic Races will take place July 11-13 at Portland International Raceway.

The Portland Historic Races features an annual entry list of more than 200 prestigious historic race cars ranging from Alfa Romeo to Zink Formula Vees, all of which have been restored to the era in which they raced. The cars are divided into groups according to make, age and horsepower, then raced at high speeds to their full potential. One group will be comprised solely of women drivers.

The Portland Historic Races features an open paddock, allowing fans to walk right up to the cars, some of which are the most historic and valuable sports and racing cars in the world.

Interaction with the drivers and crews is encouraged.

The 2008 Portland Historic Races will also highlight historic NASCAR series stock cars with a field of nearly two dozen cars.

The Portland Historic Races offers more than racing, with a display of more than 700 collector cars and hot rods, an autocross and a vendor midway.

Tickets are available at www.portlandhistorics.com and at the gate, and advance discount tickets are available at all Baxter Auto Parts locations, or call 818-249-3515.