AT SARASOTA, Fla.-based Harmar Mobility, folks are busy not only attending to business, but planning for the Grand Prix.

No, not the one in Indianapolis. This is the Medtrade 2001 version to be held Oct. 23-25 in New Orleans. And forget souped-up cars. Instead, take a gander at the racy power wheelchairs and scooters that will zoom around a 100-foot-by-78-foot track.

“We're trying to cause a little stir and excitement for Medtrade,” says Bob Zandee, president of Harmar, which is sponsoring the races.

It could work. Zandee says just about every wheelchair and scooter manufacturer has indicated interest in participating in the races, which will be held every day at the rear of the exhibit hall. While exact times had not been set at press time in mid-August, Zandee says races will likely be held mornings and afternoons. “The first day will be the time trials, the second day will be heats from those time trials and the third day will be the finals,” he says.

Spectators can take advantage of bleacher seating to watch companies compete in such classes as stock three-wheel scooters, four-wheel scooters and power chairs. There's even a category called “unlimited” in which participants can do whatever they like — even enter a new breed of mobility vehicle. Winners will walk — or roll — away with trophies.