Are you ready for 500 miles and 200 laps of high-octane performance driving at the Brickyard? Host to the most famous race of all time, Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS) is literally the racing capital of the world. With 2011 marking the 94th running of the Indianapolis 500 and 100th Anniversary of IMS, the energy level and activity schedule has been elevated with a grand pretense. Arguably the longest running motorsports race in the world, the Indy 500 packs over 400,000 eager fans in the grandstands and surrounding campus areas to witness the greatest spectacle in racing.
Since Ray Harroun won the 1911 inaugural Indy 500 in the Marmon “Wasp,” open-wheel drivers from around the world have dedicated their careers to winning the prestigious race. And to understand the history of the Indy 500 you can visit the IMS Hall of Fame Museum when you come to town. Many implications are at stake for this year’s race. Two-time Indy 500 winner Dario Franchitti can earn a third win and join a select field while 2009 winner Helio Castroneves can become a 4-peat winner, something only a few Indy drivers have done.
This weekend has been very exciting. Notable names such as Jerry Rice, Jillian Michaels, Omar Miller, Kelly Clarkson and Seal were in town actively participating in the proceedings. In addition, the all-new 2011 Camaro Convertible is the official pace car of the 94th running of the Indy 500. Just as exciting as the car itself was taking hot laps on IMS with race legend Emerson Fittipaldi behind the wheel.
This year’s race featured the usual Indy excitement! Multiple lead changes, crazy crashes and tons of fan fun are the hallmarks of this amazing weekend.
Hope to see you next year! For more information and scheduling visit Indianapolismotorspeedway.com.
