Once Marco Corral graduated from the University of Texas Permian (UTPB), he wasted no time entering the fast lane, figuratively and literally. The proud member of the Class of 2017 is fresh from serving as serving as a Formula 1 track marshal at the U.S. Grand Prix in Austin.
"As a track marshal at the pinnacle of motorsports, I am responsible for the safety and security of drivers, spectators and other race officials during the event,” Corral said in an Oct. 24 Facebook post by the university. “I am glad to be part of a professional team who provides on-track response to accidents, fires, track obstructions, helping to minimize risks and potential injuries." - Marco Corral, Formula 1
According to the post, Corral earned bachelor’s degree in management from UTPB around six years ago. He credits the school for helping him achieve his post-graduation goals. “The University of Texas Permian Basin offers a unique cultural exchange experience and the chance to develop great professional skills that can translate to any industry,” Corral told the university.
The U.S. Grand Prix in Austin drew more than 400,000 people to Circuit of the Americas, according to Texas Highways Magazine. Among those who gathered in the Texas state capital were big names like Prince Harry and Drew Barrymore. The three-day event culminated with Oracle Red Bull Racing's Max Verstappen securing his 50th Grand Prix victory.
Per a previous Austin Journal story, Gov. Greg Abbott touted the Grand Prix as beneficial to the economies of Austin and the state. "Because of its annual exposure on TV across the entire world, F1 has been a magnet to attract international visitors to Austin,” the governor, a Republican, said in an Oct. 16 press release issued by the Office of the Texas Governor that was cited by the publication. Texas Highways Magazine reported that next year’s event is slated for Oct. 18-20.