Throughout the 50's the Catalina Grand Prix was one of the premier motorcycle races in the U.S. Once a year boats loaded with bikes crossed the channel to the small island off the California Coast. Over 200 bikes - some Matchlesses, BSAs and Triumphs - start the mad scramble that carries their riders over a turning, twisting 10-miles-to-a-lap race course that the devil himself might well have had a hand in laying out. It ran through sity streets, up into the hills and thrgouh a golf course before heading back into Avalon to streets lined with screaming fans.

The Catalina Grand Prix came on the scene in 1951 and was unique compared to other scrambles and Grand Prix of that era. The laws set up for the Catalina Grand Prix are different from those found in other parts of the country (to be sure!), for here at Catalina, outside of a rigid set of safety rules, the formal inspection barriers prevailing at other races, are all but eliminated. This allows the rider or motorcycle dealer to use the Catalina Grand Prix as a 'proving ground' for various types of wheel suspension, engine and frame modifications and special tuning secrets and ideas. Also motorcycles of all size engine displacements are welcome in the Catalina Grand Prix - there's a class for each and all. What a cool way to do it, run what ya brung!

Competitors and race fans alike were privileged indeed to have experienced the island spectable. This event made its mark in history and produced many stars. The Catalina Grand Prix glory days, 1951 through 1958, were way too short but oh so sweet.

Winners of the 100 Mile Catalina Grand Prix: 1951 Walt Fulton; 1952 Nick Nicholson; 1953 John McLaughlin; 1954 Jim Johnson; 1955 Bud Ekins; 1956 Chuck Minert; 1957 Bob Sangren; 1958 Bob Sangren.