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City Hopes This Weekend's Modesto Grand Prix Will Be Boost For Economy

MODESTO (CBS13) — It's a big weekend with little cars in Downtown Modesto as the city hosts its first grand prix race.

Nearly 300 super karts with drivers from across the United States and around the world are set to speed through the streets of Modesto.

"Racing go karts are very low to the ground and very quick," says Ryan Kinnear from Houston.

When he says quick he means it—as fast as 100 mph.

Organizers of the Modesto Grand Prix are hoping for 15,000 people for the three-day event, with millions of dollars going into the local economy. Hotels and restaurants expect full capacity.

Meanwhile, crews are preparing the course with street closures and detours. Cost estimates for the street setup and other costs run around $250,000, but the city expects to make that up on ticket sales.

The event starts on Friday and runs through Sunday. Tickets are $10 in advance, $15 at the gate.

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