A motorsports race hosted in Leeds has been named the state’s top event by the Alabama Tourism Department.

The Honda Indy Grand Prix of Alabama, held in April at Barber Motorsports Park, has earned designation as 2011 Alabama Event of the Year. The award was presented Tuesday during a black-tie ceremony at the Marriott Shoals Hotel and Convention Center in Florence.

“We are honored to receive this prestigious award,” said Gene Hallman, president of ZOOM Motorsports. “I first have to thank (George) Barber for his vision for Barber Motorsports Park.  In addition, without the combined efforts of the public and private sectors, this event would not be possible, nor would it have seen the success it has enjoyed.”

The Honda Indy Grand Prix of Alabama took place April 8-10 and featured some of the top names in the IndyCar Series, including Danica Patrick, Dario Franchitti and Will Power. The weekend also included the Grand-Am Rolex Series featuring the Porsche 250 race, the Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge, Fan Walk on Pit Lane and autograph sessions.

Barber Motorsports Park & Museum, the tourism department’s 2011 Attraction of the Year, was visited by as many as 80,000 racing fans throughout the weekend.

  The Event of the Year award is among 14 for 2011 that comprise the Alabama Tourism Awards. The awards were first presented in 1998 to honor outstanding achievements in the state’s tourism industry.