Twelve months ago, I was standing in the break room of a Macy’s with Al Unser Jr, Graham Rahal and Ryan Hunter-Reay.  The 2009 Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach Grand Marshal and Indy Car drivers were promoting the IZOD Indy clothing line and sponsorship, and most media present directed questions at the two famous last names. (CLICK HERE to watch that video)

Twelve months later, and the last name Hunter-Reay is all we’re talking about.

Less than an hour after a run-away victory on the streets of Long Beach, the 29-year-old sat if front of a crowded media room and showed why he has what it takes to become a star on the circuit.

The story is a massive one.  Here’s a guy without a permanent ride who performed in the clutch.  A young, brave, caring guy who lost his mother last November, and won the race in her honor.  He met his fiancé at this racetrack, and is the first American driver to win at Long Beach since his boss Michael Andretti.  He’s even got the good looks and mouthpiece that every sports superstar possesses.  And all this happened in Long Beach, which means something in the race community. 

It’s no Indianapolis by any stretch, but this is the most famous road course in the USA, and many famous drivers (including his present boss) have solidified their stardom on Shoreline Drive.

On Friday morning as I walked with Ryan ZumMallen to the pits for American Le Mans practice, I pointed to a picture of Hunter-Reay on an Indy Car poster.  “Now there’s a marketable guy.  Lives in So Cal, good driver, good team for now, good looking, well spoken… I guess all he needs is a win on Sunday.”

Obviously, a win in about a month at the Indianapolis 500 would truly be his coming out party, but his face is on the bus for a reason.  IZOD has their name across his chest for a reason. 

The circuit is always looking for the next household name.  They may have found one… with, a little help from the streets of the LBC.