Indianapolis 500 traditions

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Due to the longevity of the Indianapolis 500, numerous traditions surrounding the race have developed over the years. Traditions include procedures for the running of the race, scheduling, and pre-race and post-race festivities. For many fans, these traditions are an important aspect of the race, and they have often reacted quite negatively when the traditions are changed or broken.

As part of the Memorial Day holiday weekend, the pre-race ceremonies of the Indianapolis 500 feature several patriotic songs. The most noteworthy and most popular traditions are the annual singing of "Back Home Again in Indiana," and the victory lane bottle of milk.

Video Indianapolis 500 traditions

Month of May

The two to three weeks of practice and qualifying leading up to the Indianapolis 500 is known in racing circles simply as "the month of May [at Indianapolis]". In early years, the track traditionally opened for practice on May 1 (regardless of the day of the week). This practice dated back to 1911. The policy was typically to make the track available for practice no later than May 1, although in most years, few if any competitors would be on the grounds yet. In some years, the track would be available for practice and testing as early as April. For instance, in 1932, cars began to arrive on April 6, and in 1969, the first day of practice was April 28. In very early years, it was not uncommon for the track to be closed on Sunday during practice, or be open for only competitors with the gates were closed to the public. In 1974, due to the energy crisis, the schedule was reduced, and the track opened instead three weeks before race day. The change was well-received, and the new schedule was made permanent, with various tweaks over the years.

In 2014, a second race at Indianapolis was introduced to the IndyCar Series schedule, conducted on the track's road course. The new event is held two weeks before the 500.

Memorial Day

The race has always been scheduled in conjunction with Memorial Day. Through 1970, the race was held on Memorial Day proper (May 30), regardless of the day of the week, unless it fell on Sunday. In those cases it was scheduled for Monday May 31. After the Uniform Monday Holiday Act took effect in 1971, the race was scheduled as part of the three-day Memorial Day weekend instead, either the Saturday, the Sunday, or the Monday. Since 1974, the race has been scheduled for the Sunday of Memorial Day weekend, and has been held on Sunday with only two exceptions due to rain delays.

Sundays were avoided for scheduling race activity dating all the way back to pre-500 races in 1909 and 1910. In early decades, Sundays were occasionally used for practice and/or qualifying, but were used sparingly in pre-World War II years. In some early years, practice may have been permitted on Sundays, but the gates might not be open to the public. When Tony Hulman bought the Speedway after World War II, Speedway management continued to refuse to schedule the race on a Sunday, a policy that stayed in place through 1973. Qualifying and practice, however, were regularly held on Sundays during those years, with no days closed to spectators.

In 1971-1972, the race was scheduled for the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend.
In 1973, the race was scheduled for Memorial Day Monday. However, rain delayed it until Wednesday.
Since 1974, the race has been scheduled for the Sunday of Memorial Day weekend.
The 1986 race was held the weekend after the official federal holiday because of two rain-outs. The race was held the following Saturday, May 31, the pre-1971 date of the race if May 30 was a Sunday.
The 1997 race was similar to 1973 in having two rain delays, nearly as unique as 1986. It was scheduled for Sunday, May 25, but heavy rain washed out the day. The race began the next day, on Memorial Day (Monday May 26), but rain showers moved back into the area. The race was halted after 15 laps, and could not be restarted. Short of the 101 laps needed for an official race, track officials elected to resume the race on the following day (Tuesday May 27). The race was run to completion, as laps 16-200 were completed on Tuesday.

Armed Forces Day also falls during the month of May, and usually coincides with one of the weekends of time trials. Since 1978 at the Speedway, that weekend is often filled with activities honoring the U.S. military, including an oath of enlistment ceremony.

Days and dates

Practice and qualifying

Opening Day: The first day of practice is traditionally referred to as "Opening Day." From 1911 to 1973, Opening day was traditionally May 1st, although oftentimes the track was made available for practice much earlier than that date. Since 1974, the "Opening Day" practice session has been scheduled either three weeks or two weeks prior to race day. The day is usually marked with festivities and for many years was popularly attended. The battle to be the First Driver on the Track for the month was a spectacle of Opening Day for many years. Teams and drivers would battle to get their cars prepped and cranked up as soon as officials opened the track, hoping to be the first car to leave the pits, and likewise the first car to complete a lap for the month. The effort usually attracted the attention of the smaller teams, as it was seen as a way to draw headlines for the day. The race to be first on the track was usually friendly, although in some years it became heated, drawing the ire of the officials. For a time, it became a tradition that the cars of the Bryant Heating & Cooling Team, and later Dick Simon Racing, were usually the first cars on the track. In recent years, Opening Day begins with a morning session for Rookie Orientation and Refresher tests, then a full-field, veteran practice session in the afternoon.

Happy Hour: The final hour of practice and qualifying each day is referred to as "Happy Hour". Due to the large double-deck grandstands on the frontstretch, large shadows are cast over a good portion of the track, cooling the asphalt surface. A lower ambient air temperature, along with a lower track surface temperature, usually translates into faster speeds. Since Indiana began observing Daylight Saving Time in 2006, this phenomenon has been somewhat diminished.

Fast Friday: The final practice session before pole day qualifying is nicknamed "Fast Friday". The fastest speeds of the month are commonly observed on Fast Friday, as teams and drivers make their final preparations and look for final "bragging rights" before the run for the pole position. Since the current engine formula was adopted in 2012, elevated turbocharger "boost" levels have been permitted on Fast Friday, reflecting the increased level allowed during time trials. Drivers who have been "sandbagging" during the week may chose to reveal their speed, in an effort to distance themselves from the competition. Sometimes the speeds turned in on Fast Friday are overachieved by the respective drivers' due to a tow. Though "Fast Friday" has been a fixture since the 1950s-1960s, the nickname was not coined until about 1996. Track records set on Fast Friday (as well as other practice sessions) are considered unofficial. The sanctioning body only recognizes speeds set during the officially competitive sessions of qualifying and the race.

Pole Day: The first day of time trials traditionally has been referred to as "Pole Day." The fastest qualifier on pole day wins the highly coveted pole position. Over the years, the "race for the pole" was often regarded as a race in itself, a speed contest, and was advertised as the second-largest single day sporting event (second only to race day itself). Though crowds have diminished for pole day as of late, and rules changes have curtailed speeds, the nickname "The Fastest Day in Motorsports" is still used. Since 2014, a special two-day format has been utilized for time trials, and the pole position is actually not determined until the conclusion of the second day. The term "pole day" is still widely used, however, it is now sometimes referencing the second day in particular.

Bump Day: The final day of qualifying, when the final starting field is set has been known as "Bump Day" (or "Bubble Day"). Drivers who are removed from the starting grid of 33 by being out-qualified by faster cars are said to have been "bumped." The driver with the slowest speed in the field of 33, the first in line to be bumped, is said to be "on the bubble." Unqualified drivers attempt to bump their way into the field and "burst the slower driver's bubble." Prior to World War II, the term typically used for drivers being knocked out of the field was "crowded out." Since the early 2000s, smaller entry lists have led to fewer cars, or even zero cars, being bumped from the starting grid. With the adoption of the special two-day qualifying format in 2014, the bumping procedure, if it occurs, actually would occur on the first day (Saturday) of time trials. As such, the term "Bump Day" is disappearing from use.

Post-qualifying practice: Beginning in 2014, an additional practice session has been scheduled on the Monday after qualifying. After schedule overhauls, as well as a substantial format changes for qualifying, this 3¹/₂ hour session is utilized specifically for race practice, particularly multi-car "group" practice. Previously teams would utilize weekdays, and very often, loosely utilize the down times of the final day of time trials for such practice. Due to the format changes of time trials, adequate time is no longer available to practice during down times on the last day of time trials due to the lengthy post-qualifying technical inspection, and the general lateness of the day that the starting grid is finalized. This extra practice period is also sometimes used by teams to "mileage out" their engines, as they install a fresh engine for Carb Day and race day.

Indy Lights: * The Indy Lights series began holding a support race, the Freedom 100, during the month of May in 2003. For the first two years, it was held on the second weekend of time trials. In 2005, it was moved to Carb Day. Practice and time trials is held on Thursday, the day before Carb Day. IndyCar teams are not permitted to practice on Tuesday through Thursday, however, they may conduct pit stop practice. In addition, the time is spent setting up their respective pit areas.

Carb Day: The final practice session before the race, currently held on the Friday before race day, is called "Carburetion Day" (shortened to "Carb Day" since 2000). The name originally came from the fact that it was the final session where teams could tune their carburetors in conditions similar to those that might be encountered on race day. The name has remained despite the fact that no qualified car has used a carburetor since 1963. The day is now similar to most motorsport weekends, as the final practice is accompanied by the a pit stop contest, a support race, and a concert. The Pit Stop Challenge debuted in 1977, the Indy Lights Freedom 100 moved to Carb Day in 2005, and the concerts have been held since 1998. In 1969-1972, Carb Day was held the Wednesday before the race. From 1973 to 2004, Carb Day was held the Thursday before the race. It was moved to Friday before the race beginning in 2005, at which time the Indy Lights race was moved to that day. Prior to 1969, Carb Day was not on a fixed day of the week, instead it was simply scheduled for a nondescript day midway between the final day of time trials and race day, and was sometimes closed to the public.

Radio

The longtime flagship of the IMS Radio Network is WFNI AM 1070 (formerly 1070 WIBC). The network dates back to 1952, and was initially launched using WIBC talent. Since the late 1960s and early 1970s, the station has featured extensive daily coverage of practice, qualifications, as well as pre-race and post-race coverage on race day.

Since 1971, the most popular and most traditional daily show during the month of May has been Donald Davidson's The Talk of Gasoline Alley.

Concerts

Since 1998, a concert featuring a top act(s) have been held the weekend of the race. Numerous other local bands, indie bands, garage bands, and smaller musical acts perform at other times during the month on days featuring track activity. Since 1998, a headlining concert has been held on Carb Day. Starting in 2014, a second headlining concert has been held on Legends Day. The performers have been as follows:

1998: Tracy Byrd and Neal McCoy
1999: Lorrie Morgan and Sammy Kershaw
2000: Smash Mouth
2001: Collective Soul
2002: Better Than Ezra (Nine Days opened)
2003: Cracker (Kenny Bräck and the Subwoofers opened)
2004: Live (Kenny Bräck and the Subwoofers opened)
2005: The Black Crowes (22-20s opened)
2006: The B-52's and Third Eye Blind
2007: Kid Rock
2008: Stone Temple Pilots
2009: 3 Doors Down
2010: ZZ Top
2011: Staind and Papa Roach
2012: Lynyrd Skynyrd
2013: Poison
2014
- (Carb Day): Sammy Hagar and The Wabos, Sublime with Rome
- (Legends Day): Jason Aldean
2015
- (Carb Day): 38 Special, O.A.R., Jane's Addiction
- (Legends Day): Florida Georgia Line, Thomas Rhett, Frankie Ballard
- (July 4): The Rolling Stones (Zip Code Tour), Rascal Flatts
2016
- (Carb Day): Journey
- (Legends Day): Corey Cox, Chris Janson, Blake Shelton
2017
- (Carb Day): Steve Miller Band, Barenaked Ladies
- (Legends Day): Keith Urban, Dustin Lynch, Clayton Anderson

Last Row Party

A few days before the race, the "Last Row Party" has been held for charity since 1972. It is a scholarship benefit organized by the Indianapolis Press Club Foundation, and is usually held the Thursday evening or Friday evening before the race. Currently it is held at one of the suites in the Pagoda, and previously it was held at the Speedway Motel. The event is conducted as a roast and cocktail party for the final three qualifiers in the 500, who will be starting on the eleventh and final row (positions 31, 32, and 33). Due to the complex qualifying procedure for the race, these three drivers are usually, but not always, the slowest three cars in the field. Like Mr. Irrelevant, many of these drivers are often obscure, but seven former or eventual race winners have participated in the honor at some time during their career.

In addition to being on the receiving end of numerous good-natured jokes and jabs, the three drivers are presented with a special jacket, various gifts, and checks for 31¢, 32¢, and 33¢, respectively. The group becomes known as the "11th Row Society", an enjoys a buffet dinner, apéritif, cocktails, and hors d'oeuvre with attendees. Later they may sign autographs and pose for pictures, in what is generally a fun and laid-back environment. The emcee for the event is usually a media figure, and past hosts include Bob Jenkins, Robin Miller, Jack Arute, Dave Wilson, and Laura Steele. The 2015 and 2016 co-emcees were Curt Cavin (Indianapolis Star) and Chris Hagen (WXIN). Lindy Thackston hosted the event for the first time in 2017. The 2013 reception was not held but a brief ceremony was held on Carb Day to recognize the honorees.

Recent honorees include:

2013: Conor Daly, Buddy Lazier, Katherine Legge
2014: Sage Karam, Sebastián Saavedra, Buddy Lazier
2015: Bryan Clauson, Ryan Briscoe, James Davison
2016: Jack Hawksworth, Buddy Lazier, Alex Tagliani
2017: Sebastián Saavedra, Zach Veach, James Davison

Public drivers' meeting and Legends Day

The day before the race, a ceremonial drivers meeting is held at the track, which is open to the public, and is popularly attended. This tradition dates back many decades. During the meeting, the 33 starting drivers are presented with their starter's ring and various awards and trophies are handed out (such as trophies from the previous year's race, qualifying awards, lifetime achievement awards, etc.) The drivers are usually seated on a platform situated in the eleven rows of three, and numerous other celebrities and special guests may be honored or give remarks. Rules clarifications, instructions for the race, and other pertinent information is also discussed in the open forum. Drivers who can not attend due to scheduling conflicts (e.g., participating in another race) will usually have another team member or family member participate on their behalf.

This drivers meeting is separate from the official drivers meeting, organized by race stewards. That meeting, held the morning of the race, is strictly closed to the public and the media.

Starting in 1998, the days leading up to the race have included ceremonies and activities honoring former drivers. In some years, each day during the week would have a featured Indy legend, and might feature the driver taking ceremonial laps around the track in one of his winning race cars, or in a pace car. Other years utilized Opening Day as an opportunity to honor Indy legends. In addition, the day before the race was expanded to include an autograph session featuring the 33 starting drivers, former drivers, Q&A sessions, car displays, a "fanfest" midway, a memorabilia show, and other festivities. Starting 2011, the events of the day before the race have been officially themed "Legends Day," and features a designated honoree. In addition, Legends Day showcases the classic cars of the 500: fans are able to get close looks and take photos of the machines, with a number of historic race cars also running laps of the circuit.

Legends Day honorees

1998: "Parade of Champions" (Parnelli Jones, Bobby Unser, Gordon Johncock, Johnny Rutherford, Al Unser, Tom Sneva)
1999: "Legends of the Speedway" (Rodger Ward, A. J. Watson, Johnny Rutherford, Jim Rathmann, Lloyd Ruby)
2000: "Legends of the Speedway" (Joe Leonard, Duke Nalon, Emerson Fittipaldi, Rick Mears, Mario Andretti, Andy Granatelli)
2001: "Salute to cars" (Indy 500 winning cars from 1911, 1922, 1931, 1951, 1961, and the 1968 Wedge Turbine)
2003: "Back-to-Back Winners" (Wilbur Shaw, Mauri Rose, Bill Vukovich, Al Unser, Hélio Castroneves)
2006: "Andretti Opening Day" (Mario, Michael, and Marco celebrating three generations of the Andretti family at Indy)
2007: "A. J. Foyt Opening Day" (Celebrating 50th year of A. J. Foyt participating at Indianapolis).
2008: "Unser Opening Day" (Al Sr., Al Jr., Robby, Johnny, and Al III, celebrating the Unser family at Indy)
2011: "Legends Day" with A. J. Foyt
2012: "Legends Day" with Roger Penske
2013: "Legends Day" with Parnelli Jones
2014: "Legends Day" with Mario Andretti
2015: "Legends Day" with Al Unser, Sr.
2016: "Legends Day" Honoring Champions of the 500
2017: "Legends Day" Honoring Rookie Winners of the 500

500 Festival Parade

The 500 Festival is a non-profit organization founded in 1957 to organize various civic events in the city of Indianapolis leading up to the race. The two largest events are the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon in early May, and the 500 Festival Parade the day before the race. Other events have included "Community Day" at the track, memorial services, luncheons, and the annual Snake Pit Ball, a black tie socialite gathering downtown.

In many years, the parade grand marshal has been a celebrity with ties to Indiana or the Indianapolis area, particularly Indianapolis-area sports figures. In many cases, the grand marshal of the parade is also honored during pre-race festivities on race morning. The organizing committee boasts the parade as one of the largest in the nation. In 1997, a fire swept through the storage hangar housing the floats for that year's parade, threatening to cancel the event. Only four floats were spared, and Buddy Lazier's 1996 winning car escaped the fire only because the museum had decided to wait a few extra days before delivering it to the float staging area. The parade went on as scheduled, but in a slightly retooled format.

The grand marshals for the annual parade have been as follows:

1957 Lt. Gen. G. W. Arnold
1958 Shirley MacLaine
1959
1960 Gen. David M. Shoup, Indiana native, Medal of Honor receipient, 22nd USMC Commandant
1961 Lt. Gen. Joe W. Kelly, Indiana native, DFC receipient, 5th MATS Commander
1962 Gen. Herbert B. Powell
1963 Lt. Gen. Charles G. Dodge, Commanding General 5th U.S Army, Ft Sheridan, Illinois
1964
1965 James Stewart
1966 Walter Cronkite
1967 Lorne Greene, Dan Blocker, Michael Landon
1968 Ambassadors from Peru, Bolivia, and Ecuador
1969 Manuel Fraga Iribarne
1970 Edie Adams
1971 George W. Romney, John Arthur Love, Carl Stokes
1972 Phil Harris
1973 James H. Kasler
1974 Mickey Mouse
1975 Peter DePaolo, winner 1925 Indianapolis 500 (driver); winner 1935 Indianapolis 500 (team owner)
1976 Tony Hulman & Bob Hope
1977 William Hanna & Joseph Barbera
1978 Roy Clark
1979 Gerald Ford
1980 Mike Douglas
1981 Joyce DeWitt (grew up in Speedway, Indiana, graduated from Speedway Senior High School)
1982 Merlin Olsen
1983 Joseph P. Allen (Crawfordsville, Indiana native)
1984 David Hasselhoff
1985 Mickey Mouse
1986 Jerry L. Ross
1987 Mario Vázquez Raña
1988 Jim Davis and Garfield (Davis is a native and lifelong resident of Indiana)
1989 Gene Autry
1990 Dan Quayle (sitting Vice President of the United States, an Indiana native)
1991 A. J. Foyt and Mary Fendrich Hulman (Foyt was planning to retire after the 1991 race, but recanted); General Norman Schwarzkopf was designated the grand marshal of the race itself.
1992 Mickey & Minnie
1993 Larry Bird (Indiana native)
1994 Mario Andretti and Bonnie Blair (Andretti was retiring at season's end, and 1994 would be his final Indy 500)
1995 A. J. Foyt, Rick Mears, Al Unser, Sr. (the three four-time Indy 500 winners)
1996 Jim Davis & Garfield
1997 Cam Cameron, Bob Davie, Joe Tiller (at the time the head coaches of the state's three Division I-A college football programs)
1998 David Wolf (Indianapolis native)
1999 Medal of Honor Recipients
2000 Jim Nabors
2001 Five Public Safety Agencies of Indianapolis
2002 Jim Caviezel
2003 Wynonna Judd
2004 Jane Pauley (Indianapolis native)
2005 Reggie Miller (retired after an 18-year NBA career, spent entirely with the Indiana Pacers, days earlier)
2006 Lance Armstrong (this was before the 2012 doping scandal)
2007 Peyton Manning (won Super Bowl XLI MVP with Indianapolis Colts)
2008 Patricia Heaton
2009 Dick Vitale
2010 Butler University Men's Basketball Team
2011 Anderson Cooper
2012 Olivia Newton-John
2013 Indiana Fever (defending WNBA champions)
2014 Josh Kaufman and Jim Nabors (celebrating Nabors' final 500 performance of "Back Home Again in Indiana")
2015 Members of 1955 Crispus Attucks High School State Champion basketball team and cheerleaders
2016 Emma Stumpf
2017 Eva Mozes Kor

Maps Indianapolis 500 traditions

Track lore

The atmosphere at the track during the month of May and on race day has long been a source of traditions.

Gasoline Alley

The garage area at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway is known as "Gasoline Alley." The nickname dates back to the early decades of the race, and for a time, referred specifically to one particular spot in the back where cars would refuel. Though the exact origin of the name is unclear, it may be loosely linked to the eponymous comic strip. Later, the nickname was used for the main corridor of the garage area, and eventually was used colloquially for the entire garage complex. The use of gasoline at the Indy 500 was phased out in favor of methanol beginning in 1965 (and later ethanol in 2006), but the nickname nonetheless remained. Gasoline was not used again at Indy until NASCAR arrived for the Brickyard 400 in 1994.

The first garage area consisted of one double-sided bank of garages running east-west. It was in the same general location as the present day complex. In the very early years, the foreign entries were housed in a second garage complex outside of turn two. In 1929, a second row of garages was constructed alongside the first, creating the soon-to-be familiar Gasoline Alley corridor. The original garages were known for their signature green and white barn doors, and were sometimes visually compared to horse stables, as the complex loosely resembled a horse racing paddock.

One of the fixtures of the garage area was Tom Bealle's diner, an outdoor restaurant and gathering place, popular with drivers, mechanics, officials, and fans. Bealle often allowed drivers to run up a tab during the month of May, allowing them to pay their bill once they received their prize money at the end of the month.

A fire swept through the garage area on the morning of the 1941 race, and burned down a significant portion of the south bank of garages. They were replaced, and eventually the complex expanded to 88 stalls. As the sport grew, and the cars and teams became larger and more sophisticated, work space was increasingly limited in the garages. Amenities were simple, corridors were heavily congested, and by the 1980s, the cars and teams had outgrown the aging facility.

Despite their lack of modern amenities, the garages had a nostalgic quaintness admired by participants and fans, and they also served important intrinsic purposes for the teams. For many years, the entry fee for the Indianapolis 500 provided a garage stall to the competitors not just for the month of May, but for the entire offseason as well. It was a valuable asset to some teams, especially small-budget teams without a large race shop. Even larger, more established teams still might use the garage stall for storage or as a staging location for cross-country trips to other races.

Following the 1985 race, the original Gasoline Alley garage area was torn down and replaced with a state-of-the-art, multimillion dollar garage complex. The nickname "Gasoline Alley" remained when the new complex opened in 1986. In 2000, an additional row of garages was constructed alongside the pit lane on the mainstretch, in preparations for the U.S. Grand Prix. Although the pitside garages are used during the Brickyard 400 for NASCAR inspection and top Cup Series teams (lower teams and the Xfinity Series teams use Gasoline Alley), they are specifically not considered part of Gasoline Alley.

The Snake Pit

The infield of the track in the vicinity of turn one was known as the "Snake Pit." Long known for a reputation of rowdiness, heavy alcohol consumption, bikers, streaking, flashing, and an overall Woodstock/Mardi Gras-esque atmosphere, the Snake Pit was a popular location for college-age fans to spend time at the track, many of whom had little or no interest in the actual racing activities. Like the infield at the Kentucky Derby, the Snake Pit was often considered a rite of spring, and an excuse to party with abandon. Arrests for public intoxication, disorderly conduct, fights, and drug possession were frequent and common.

In periods of rain, the area usually became overwhelmed with mud, and mud wrestling was commonly observed. Bonfires and burned cars were also noted.

In 1980, a fatality occurred in the area after a Jeep flipped over. Around that time, track management decided to take steps to curtail the revelry. For the 1981 race, bleachers were erected in the turn one infield. In addition, capital improvements that included the new Gasoline Alley, a place for competitors to park motor homes, new support buildings, new restroom buildings, and other changes to the site, gradually and deliberately scaled back the size of the area. As a result, for the better part of the 1980s, the patrons migrated to the infield of turn four, and the less-intense Snake Pit II emerged. By the 1990s, the intensity of the rowdiness had dropped substantially, due largely to third-generation management at the Speedway (Tony George) and beefed up law enforcement. By the end of the 20th century, it almost disappeared completely.

The turn four infield was razed in 1999 to make room for the infield road course. The race day party scene migrated again, this time to its current location, the turn three infield. The Snake Pit eventually became more of a festive party zone. Later, the original turn one location was also razed to make room for road course modifications, a section sometimes referred to as the "Snake Pit" section. In 2010, the turn three infield was officially named the (New) Snake Pit, and began to be embraced and officially marketed by management. On race day, a concert stage is erected, and popular music acts and DJ's perform to entertain the infield crowd in a controlled and festive environment. In the mid-2010s, the revelry in the Snake Pit has somewhat re-intensified, however, not to the levels witnessed in the 1970s and early 1980s.

Snake Pit concerts (race day)

2012: EDI, DJ Lockstar, Krewella, Benny Benassi
2013: Topher Jones, Diplo, Afrojack
2014: DJ Lockstar, Matt Dash, Dillon Francis, NERVO, Hardwell
2015: Sinclair Wheeler, Caked Up, Milk 'N' Cookies, A-Trak, Steve Aoki, Kaskade
2016: BOAT (Big Once and Trentino), DJ Mustard, Zeds Dead, Martin Garrix, Skrillex
2017: the Trap House, Action Bronson, Adventure Club, RL Grime, Marshmello, Zedd, with host Ric Flair
2018: Griz, Diplo, Deadmau5, Axwell /\ Ingrosso

Coke Lot

Similar to the aforementioned "Snake Pit," the Coke Lot which is located outside the track, is the most noteworthy and popular camping location on the grounds of the Speedway. Officially designated Lot 1C, it has been nicknamed the "Coke Lot" for decades due to the presence of a Coca-Cola bottling plant located on an adjacent property.

The lot is an open field situated just to the northwest of the track, outside of turn 4 of the oval, off of Georgetown Road. Long known for intense revelry and all-night partying (particularly on the night before the race), the Coke Lot is a festive area and party scene for RVs and campers, as well as tent campers. The lot typically opens a few days before the race and allows fans to stay through the entire race weekend.

While the Coke Lot is the most notorious camping area, several other camping lots are also situated around the vicinity of the Speedway, some focusing on family-friendly environments, while others are considered premium lot for high-end RV'ers.

In years past, another camping area called the "North 40" (named due to its size of approximately 40 acres) was another scene of intense overnight revelry. In the 1970s, its revelry surpassed that of the Coke Lot. Located directly north of the track off of 30th Street, in close proximity to the Speedway's golf course, and backed up against a neighborhood of homes, it is no longer used for camping. Currently it is only utilized for daytime car parking, and employee parking. During its peak, security had to begin using giant searchlights to keep North 40 campers from illegally wandering onto the golf course property late into the night.

Food

A traditional food of choice at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway is the pork tenderloin sandwich. The sandwich is a well-known midwestern creation, and is sold at the track concessions.

Beer (largely domestic) is consumed in considerable amounts at the track. Unlike most sports stadiums and arenas, at Indianapolis (and most speedways), spectators are allowed to bring their own alcoholic beverages into the track for consumption. Beer is also sold at concessions. Glass bottles, however, are strictly prohibited at the track. Broken glass is considered an extreme hazard to the race cars (cut tires) on the track.

Peanuts are considered bad luck. An ambiguous, long-standing superstition against eating peanuts at the race track has dominated Indianapolis dating back to at least the 1940s. Legend says, though unconfirmed, that a crashed car was found with peanut shells in the cockpit. As of 2009, however, peanuts are sold at trackside concessions, and the myth has lost a lot of its following.

From the mid-1960s until her death in 1975, Mary Catherine "Mom" Unser (mother of Jerry, Bobby, and Al) was a well-known fixture at the race. She became famous for her spicy chili. Each year, she would treat the participants to a cook-out in the garage area.

Several local restaurants, both current and former, have been popular gathering places for participants and fans during the month of May. Establishments include St. Elmo Steak House, Charlie Brown's Pancake and Steak House, Mug-n-Bun Drive-in Restaurant, and Long's Bakery. The aforementioned Tom Bealle's diner was a fixture of the garage area for many years. Redevelopment of Main Street in Speedway has created a area of popular establishments and nightlife, including Sarah Fisher's 1911 Grill, and A. J. Foyt's Foyt Wine Vault. A White Castle used to stand across the street from the track, as did a Steak 'n Shake, but both have since been demolished. From the 1930s to the 1960s, Mate's White Front Tavern was one of the most popular hangouts for drivers and crews. Located just a few blocks east of the Speedway, it was sold to new management in the early 1960s, and was kept open until the mid-1980s.

Curse of the Smiths

Among the over 766 drivers who have participated in the Indy 500, none have had the last name Smith, the most common surname in the United States. Several Smiths have attempted to make the race, the last being Mark Smith who failed to qualify in 1993 and 1994, despite finishing 5th at the Michigan Superspeedway in a 1994 CART race. By contrast there have been eight different drivers with the last name Jones, and four with the last name Johnson.

Only two drivers with the surname Smith have ever competed in professional races at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, albeit in different events. Regan Smith drove in the Brickyard 400 from 2008 to 2013 (with a best finish of 3rd in 2011). He also has competed in the Lilly Diabetes 250. Motorcyclist Bradley Smith competed in the Red Bull Indianapolis GP, with best finish of second in 2009.

A German language translation of Smith has participated, with Sam Schmidt making three starts.

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Pre-race ceremonies

At 6 a.m., and in some years as early as 5 a.m., an aerial bomb is set off to signal the opening of the gates.
At 8 a.m., the "Parade of Bands" marches around the racing circuit. Numerous marching bands from nearby and neighboring high schools and universities entertain the early arriving fans. This tradition dates back to 1922, and celebrated its 90th anniversary in 2015. Most of the bands in attendance also participate in the 500 Festival Parade downtown the day before. Traditional participants include the Purdue All-American Marching Band (along with the World's Largest Drum which is driven around the track) and Speedway High School.
The Purdue University All-American Marching Band plays several pre-race songs, including "On the Banks of the Wabash" and "Stars and Stripes Forever."
In 1991, and in most years since about 2002, a special military appreciation lap has been held. Military personnel who have recently returned from active service overseas are honored in a parade around the track. In 1991, hundred of troops who had returned from Operation Desert Storm marched around the course on race morning. In the 2000s, troops (namely from Iraq and Afghanistan) have been paraded around in trucks and saluted by fans.
About an hour or two before the race, there is a parade around the track (typically in convertible festival cars) of the 500 Festival Queen and her court of 500 Festival Princesses. Likewise, a similar parade of former race winners, celebrities in attendance, and other VIPs is conducted.
In many years, a ceremonial lap of vintage race cars and/or vintage pace cars is conducted. In some cases, the original drivers (or surviving relatives) are behind the wheel.
Starting in 2016, a new tradition was introduced, the "march to the bricks." The Borg-Warner Trophy is paraded through the infield to the start/finish line.
Finally, driver introductions take place. They are usually in reverse starting order with the front row being introduced last. This is followed by the drivers being paraded around the track similar to the Festival Queen, her court, and other VIPs.

The pre-race ceremonies usually go in the following order:

Invocation
"Taps"
"America the Beautiful" and "God Bless America"
"The Star-Spangled Banner"
"Back Home Again in Indiana" accompanied by a balloon release
Starting command

Grand marshal

In some years, a grand marshal has been named for the race. The duties of the grand marshal may include greeting drivers and dignitaries during pre-race ceremonies, delivering the "drivers to your cars" message, and riding in the pace car. This person may or may not be the same grand marshal as the 500 Festival Parade. Unlike other races, the grand marshal will not give the starting command which is only said by a member of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

1991 - Norman Schwarzkopf
2015 - Nastia Liukin
2016 - Florence Henderson (her final appearance)

National anthem

The Star-Spangled Banner has been performed before the start of the Indy 500 in most years. Up through the 1970s and early 1980s, the song was typically played by the Purdue All-American Marching Band without a vocalist. However, in some rare occasions, a vocalist was used. In 1976, Tom Sullivan and Up with People were invited to sing, as a gesture to the U.S. Bicentennial.

By the mid-1980s, the Speedway began inviting notable artists to perform the national anthem. In nearly all cases, they would be backed by the Purdue Band. In 1983, James A. Hubert flubbed the lyrics. He omitted the line "O'er the ramparts we watched, were so gallantly streaming?" and instead repeated the second line "What so proudly we hailed at the twilight's last gleaming", stumbling on the word "twilight" the second time around.

After the national anthem is performed, the public address announcer gives the command "Drivers, to your cars!"

In 2001, Steven Tyler of Aerosmith caused a controversy after he changed the lyrics of the song. Recent performers include:

1965 - Purdue Band
1966 - Purdue Band
1967 - Purdue Band
1968 - Purdue Band
1969 - Purdue Band
1970 - Al Hirt (trumpet solo)
1971 - Purdue Band
1972 - Purdue Band
1973 - Purdue Band
1974 - Purdue Band
1975 - Purdue Band
1976 - Tom Sullivan and Up with People
1977 - Purdue Band
1978 - Purdue Band
1979 - Purdue Band
1980 - Purdue Band
1981 - Purdue Band
1982 - Louis Sudler
1983 - James A. Hubert
1984
1985 - Robert McFarlin
1986 - David Hasselhoff
1987 - Sandi Patty
1988 - Sandi Patty
1989 - Tom Hudnut (brother of Indianapolis mayor Bill Hudnut)
1990 - Sandi Patty
1991 - Sandi Patty
1992 - Sandi Patty and the Voices of Liberty
1993 - Florence Henderson
1994 - Florence Henderson
1995 - Florence Henderson
1996 - Florence Henderson
1997 - Florence Henderson
1998 - Elizabeth Burch
1999 - CeCe Winans
2000 - Jessica Andrews
2001 - Steven Tyler
2002 - Josephine Holmon (West Point cadet)
2003 - Daniel Rodríguez
2004 - Jessica Simpson
2005 - Members of U.S. Armed Forces
2006 - Members of U.S. Armed Forces
2007 - Members of U.S. Armed Forces
2008 - Julianne Hough
2009 - Major Lisa Kopczynski (Indiana National Guard)
2010 - Jewel
2011 - Seal and Kelly Clarkson, accompanied by David Foster on piano.
2012 - Martina McBride
2013 - Sandi Patty
2014 - LeAnn Rimes
2015 - Jordin Sparks
2016 - Darius Rucker
2017 - Bebe Rexha

Other songs

In most years since 1991, the songs "America the Beautiful" and/or "God Bless America" have been performed. Florence Henderson, a native Hoosier, was a friend of the Hulman-George family that owns the Speedway. Henderson performed one of the two songs numerous times, book-ending years when she performed the national anthem instead. Her performances were usually not televised.

The performance of "America the Beautiful" was introduced for the race's 75th anniversary running in 1991, in part due to Operation Desert Storm. Henderson switched to the national anthem for 1993-1997, then resumed "America the Beautiful" in 1999. In 2003, her performance was switched to "God Bless America," which became more popular in the post-9/11 era. She continued through 2015, then served as grand marshal for her final race in 2016. Henderson died six months after the 2016 race. Henderson routinely sang the entire song, including the prologue, and in some years sang the chorus a second time.

By 2009, "America the Beautiful" was re-added to the ceremonies, with a different artist each year. In 1999, Lee Greenwood did a special performance of "God Bless the USA", and in 2003, Darryl Worley performed "Have You Forgotten?".

"America the Beautiful"

1991 - Florence Henderson
1992 - Florence Henderson
1993--1998 - none
1999 - Florence Henderson
2000 - Florence Henderson
2001 - Florence Henderson
2002 - Florence Henderson
2003--2008 - none
2009 - Miss America 2009 Katie Stam
2010 - Major Lisa Kopczynski (Indiana National Guard)
2011 - Miss America 2011 Teresa Scanlan
2012 - Specialist Ron Walker
2013 - Lindsey Kraner [2]
2014 - Martina McBride
2015 - Danielle Bradbery
2016 - none
2017 - 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) Band; vocalist Rick Walburn

"God Bless America"

2003 - Florence Henderson
2004 - Florence Henderson
2005 - Florence Henderson
2006 - Florence Henderson
2007 - Florence Henderson
2008 - Florence Henderson
2009 - Florence Henderson
2010 - Florence Henderson
2011 - Florence Henderson
2012 - Florence Henderson
2013 - Jon McLaughlin
2014 - Florence Henderson
2015 - Florence Henderson
2016 - Indianapolis Children's Choir
2017 - Angela Brown

Invocation

Starting in 1974, the Indy 500 was moved to the Sunday of Memorial Day weekend. As a gesture, the Speedway added an invocation to the pre-race ceremonies. In most years since 1980, the Speedway has invited a representative of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Indianapolis. In selected years, others have been invited including nationally famous clergymen Oral Roberts and Billy Graham.

The Most Reverend Archbishop Edward T. O'Meara participated several times until his death in early 1992. Archbishop Daniel M. Buechlein took over as the traditional clergy in 1993. Buechlein customarily ended his invocation with the word "Godspeed" in the languages of all of the participating drivers. In 2011, Buechlein fell ill, and resigned from the archdiocese. Since 2011, Archbishop Joe Tobin, or Auxiliary bishop Christopher J. Coyne, has regularly delivered the invocation.

Taps

In remembrance of Memorial Day, "Taps" is played, and a U.S. military aircraft does a fly-by. In some years, multiple aircraft participate, executing the missing man formation. Traditionally, a member of the public address announcing team recited a preamble honoring those who have died in combat, and those who have perished in automobile racing. The preamble dated back to at least 1965. Jim Philippe recited the preamble until he died in 2003. Dave Calabro said it in 2006, and Jerry Baker reprised it in 2012. Since 2000, a notable military or government official has also offered a tribute or remarks.

The traditional preamble goes as follows:

"On this Memorial Day weekend, we pause in a moment of silence, to pay homage to those individuals who have given their lives--unselfishly, and unafraid--so that we may witness as free men and women, the world's greatest sporting event. We also pay homage to those individuals, who have given their lives--unselfishly, and without fear--to make racing, the world's most spectacular spectator sport."

In the 1960s and 1970s, "Taps" was typically rendered by a combined U.S. Armed Forces Color Guard. Then from the about 1980 through 2005, it was usually played by the full Purdue Band. Since 2006, it has been a trumpet solo. In 2016, the trumpeter moved from the trackside victory podium to the starter's stand on the mainstretch.

Rendering of "Taps"

1960: Combined U.S. Armed Forces color guard
1964-1978: Combined U.S. Armed Forces color guard
1980: Purdue Brass Quartet
1983-1984: Purdue Band
1985: Combined U.S. Armed Forces color guard
1986: Ron Blomberg & Robert A. Nixon (74th Army Band of Fort Benjamin Harrison)
1987-1996: Purdue Band
1997: Larry Wiseman (in substitution of Purdue Band due to rain delay)
1998-2005: Purdue Band
2006-2008: Sgt. Byron Bartosh (Indiana National Guard)
2009-2010: Sgt. Joseph Young (Indiana National Guard)
2011-2017: SSG Ron Duncan (38th Infantry Division Army National Guard Band)

Remarks

2000 - U. S. Secretary of Defense William Cohen
2001 - General James L. Jones
2003 - General Jack Keane
2004 - General William J. Begert
2005 - General Colin Powell (former United States Secretary of State)
2006 - General Colin Powell (former United States Secretary of State)
2007 - General Norman Schwarzkopf, Jr.
2008 - General Victor E. Renuart Jr.
2009 - General Craig R. McKinley followed by a 3-volley salute
2010 - Rear admiral John W. Miller followed by a 3-volley salute
2011 - General Peter W. Chiarelli followed by a 3-volley salute
2012 - Admiral James A. Winnefeld, Jr. followed by a 3-volley salute
2013 - Colonel Jack H. Jacobs followed by a 3-volley salute
2014 - General Frank J. Grass followed by a 3-volley salute
2015 - General Dennis L. Via followed by a 3-volley salute
2016 - Lieutenant General Joseph Anderson followed by a 3-volley salute, and tribute to Pearl Harbor Survivors
2017 - General Robert B. Abrams followed by a 3-volley salute

Fly-bys

1991 - Four A-10s
1992 - The "Black Aces"
1994 - Four P-51 Mustangs, led by Chuck Yeager
1995 - B-17 Flying Fortress, led by Chuck Yeager
1996 - Four F/A-18 Hornets (Marine Aircraft Group 31)
1997 - Stealth Bomber
1999 - Stealth Bomber & four F-14 Tomcats
2000 - Two AV-8B Harrier IIs
2001 - Four F-16s, "The Racers" (181st Fighter Wing, Indiana Air National Guard)
2002 - Stealth Bomber "Spirit of Washington" (509th Bomb Wing, Whiteman Air Force Base)
2003 - Stealth Bomber "Spirit of Indiana" (509th Bomb Wing, Whiteman Air Force Base)
2004 - Four F-16s, "The Black Snakes" (122d Fighter Wing, Air National Guard)
2005 - Stealth Bomber
2006 - Historic Aircraft & four F-16s
2007 - Four F-22 Raptors (Langley AFB)
2008 - Two F-16 Vipers & two F/A-18 Hornets (Naval Strike and Air Warfare Center)
2009 - Two World War II B-25 Mitchell bombers
2010 - Four F/A-18 Hornets (Naval Strike and Air Warfare Center)
2011
- Pre-race - Stealth Bomber "Spirit of Nebraska" (509th Bomb Wing, Whiteman Air Force Base)
- Post-race - Four F/A-18E Super Hornets
2012 - A-10 Thunderbolt "Warthog", F-16 Fighting Falcon, two P-51 Mustangs.
2013 - One World War II North American B-25 Mitchell "Axis Nightmare" (Tri-State Warbird Museum) and five North American T-6 Texan trainer aircraft
2014 - Black Diamond Jet Team
2015 - Two A-10s
2016 - Douglas SBD-5 Dauntless and a P-51 Mustang; both aircraft are from the Commemorative Air Force. Also, two F/A-18E Super Hornets from VFA-81 and two EA-18G Growlers from VAQ-139.
2017 - B-52 Bomber (69th Bomb Squadron)

"Back Home Again in Indiana"

The most traditional performance is the singing of "Back Home Again in Indiana". This tradition has accompanied the race since 1946. Jim Nabors, accompanied by the Purdue Marching Band, notably performed the song in most years from 1972 to 2014. The song has long been the last event in the order of the day, immediately preceding the command to start engines.

During the song, thousands of multicolored balloons are released from an infield tent. The balloon release also dates back to 1946, but initially it did not coincide with the song.

The song, which was first published in 1917, is reported to have been first played at the race in 1919. A track side brass band played the song as Indiana-born Howdy Wilcox was finishing the final laps to victory.

In 1997, the race was rained out on Sunday, and the start was rescheduled for Monday. Nabors (as well as the Purdue band), had left the grounds by Monday morning. Rather than find a last-minute replacement, Nabors suggested that the Speedway utilize a recording of one of his previous performances. The Speedway replayed his 1993 rendition, and it was well-received by the fans. Two days before the 2007 race, Nabors canceled his appearance due to an illness. On race morning, Nabors recorded a special video greeting to the fans from his Hawaii home, which was streamed over the Internet. Fans were invited to sing along with the Purdue band, and a "get well soon" message was displayed for Nabors. In 2008, Nabors made a well-received return, and received a standing ovation at the public driver meeting.

Nabors again missed the race in 2012 due to an illness. This time, the Speedway sent a television crew to his home in Maui, and recorded a performance that was played on the video boards on race morning. In March 2014, Nabors announced that the 2014 race would be his final performance. In 2017, Jim Cornelison was invited to sing, and his performance was critically praised. He was invited to return in 2018.

Starting command

The call for the engines to start has been traditionally made by stating "Gentlemen, start your engines!" When female drivers are competing, the call has been amended to "Lady and Gentlemen..." or "Ladies and Gentlemen..." In 2017, the command was recited as "Drivers, start your engines."

The exact origin of the phrase is unclear, and there have been several conflicting accounts of who was the first to recite it, and what the exact wording of it was. Prior to World War II, it was commonplace for an aerial bomb to signal the start of the engines. Seth Kline was the official starter of the "500" in 1925-1926 & 1934-1953. Kline is thought to have made an informal "Gentlemen, start your motors!" command as early as 1948 to accompany the bomb. The first documented case was in 1950, and that was recited by prolific public address announcer John Francis "Irish" Horan. Kline was again reported as saying it in 1951, (though some report it was Horan) Either Kline or Horan said it again in 1952. It was around that time the command was changed from "...motors!" to "...engines!" The participants and officials alike, preferred the more technical term "engines" to describe their machines. Sid Collins stated that chief steward Harlan Fengler explained to him "there are no motors in the race, just engines."

The starting command is traditionally said by a member of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

Wilbur Shaw, president of the Speedway in 1946-1954, was once believed to be the person who coined the phrase, and it was erroneously claimed in his autobiography that he recited it in all the post-World War II years until his death. Speedway historian Donald Davidson, however, believes Shaw only recited it twice, in 1953 and 1954.

After Shaw's death, Tony Hulman started reciting the command, and made it popular and famous. The normally soft-spoken and shy Hulman had a proud and vociferous version of the command annually. Hulman would rehearse the line, perfecting it for show, and was even known to work with radio broadcaster Luke Walton to create cue cards to know when to stress certain words and syllables. After Hulman's death in 1977, his widow Mary F. Hulman or his daughter, Mari Hulman George has done the honor.

In 1977, Janet Guthrie became the first female driver to qualify for the Indy 500. Controversy surrounded the command, because the Speedway management did not want to alter the traditional phrase. During the week before the race, the management announced that they would not change the wording of the command. Looking for an excuse, they insisted that the cars were actually started by male crew members with an electric hand-held starter from behind the car. Guthrie and her crew were quite displeased by the stubbornness of the Speedway management, considering her unprecedented accomplishment. The crew reacted by assigning Kay Bignotti (wife of George Bignotti) as the crew member to operate the inertial starter at the back of Guthrie's car. The Speedway's argument fell apart, and they decided upon a special amended command for that year. They did not announce beforehand what the special command would be, and Hulman's highly anticipated phrase was the following:

In 1978-1979, when Guthrie again qualified for the race, it was simply amended to "Lady and..." In 1992, Lyn St. James became the second female to qualify for the race. She publicly requested, albeit not contentiously, that the command be changed to "Drivers, start your engines." The request was dismissed, and the command used was the now customary "Lady and..." variation. However, in 2017, Tony George gave the command as "Drivers, start your engines," despite Pippa Mann being the only woman in the field. This is the first time that this variation of the command was used for the race.

For many years, the traditional location for giving the command was at the pace car in the front of the starting grid. Public address announcer Jim Philippe normally introduced the command, describing it as the "traditional command" or the "famous four words." Phillippe's final 500 was 2003. Likewise, for many years through 1989, Luke Walton traditionally introduced the command on the radio network broadcast. Since 2004, current public address announcer Dave Calabro introduces the command normally by calling it the "most famous words in motorsports."

In most cases, Tony Hulman would give the command, then ride in the pace car during the pace laps. Mary F. Hulman would give the command near the pace car, but rarely rode in the pace car due to her age and declining health. Eventually, the location was moved to near the start/finish line, and in 2001, it was moved to the new Victory Podium stage adjacent to the Pagoda. In 2011 only, however, Mari George moved back to the front of the starting grid to give the command, and she rode in the pace car with A. J. Foyt. In 2014, as a special gesture to Jim Nabors's final performance at Indy, the starting command was given in unison by both Mari George and Nabors, the first time a non-member of the Hulman-George family had given the command for the 500 since 1954. In 2016 for the 100th Indianapolis 500, Mari was joined by three subsequent generations of the Hulman-George family, and it would be her final turn giving the command. In 2017, the duty was assigned to Tony George. In that year, Tony George recited for the first time, "Drivers, start your engines" instead of the more familiar "Lady and..." variation.

Starting command

1948-1952 - Seth Klein/John Francis "Irish" Horan (unconfirmed)
1953-1954 - Wilbur Shaw
1955-1977 - Tony Hulman
1978-1980 - Mary F. Hulman
1981 - Mari George
1982-1996 - Mary F. Hulman
1997-2013 - Mari George
2014 - Mari George and Jim Nabors
2015 - Mari George
2016 - Four generations of the Hulman-George family (including Mari George and Tony George)
2017 - Tony George

On occasions when an accident or rain has halted the race, a second command has typically been given. Years include: 1967, 1973, 1982, 1986, 1997, 2004, 2007. The amended command, "gentlemen, re-start your engines," has usually been used. In 1986, this restart command was given by Tony George. In 1997, it was given by Mari Hulman George. In 1982 and 2004 the command was given by public address announcer Tom Carnegie.

Over the years, the starting command has been adopted to start all sorts of auto racing in the United States, including but not limited to NASCAR. However, in many venues outside of Indy, the phrase "Drivers, start your engines" appears to be the preferred version.

Honorary starter

A recently-added tradition is the use of an honorary starter. A special guest has been invited in recent years to wave the green flag to start the race. Starting in 2013, the tradition was expanded where another celebrity or special guest(s) arrives on race morning by helicopter to ceremoniously deliver the green flag or the checkered flag. The official starter (or "flagman"), however, is a trained race official, and handles the remainder of the flagging duties during the race. In 2010, due to two early caution periods, honorary starter Jack Nicholson elected to stay in the starter's perch for an additional few minutes, and was able to drop the green for the two subsequent restarts as well.

1993 - Nick Fornoro (retired CART starter, retired at the end of the 1992 CART season)
1996 - Robert James Eaton (Chairman and CEO of Chrysler Corporation)
1997 - General Ronald Fogleman (Chief of Staff of the United States Air Force)
1998 - Mark Page (Sr. VP of Store Operations for Pep Boys, IndyCar Series sponsor)
1999 - Jim Postl (President and CEO of Pennzoil)
2000 - Howard Katz (President of ABC Sports)
2004 - Nick Lachey
2005 - Reggie Miller
2006 - Sugar Ray Leonard
2007 - Peyton Manning
2008 - Kristi Yamaguchi
2009 - Allen Sirkin (COO of Phillips-Van Heusen, IndyCar Series Sponsor)
2010 - Jack Nicholson
2011 - Bruce P. Crandall (Medal of Honor recipient)
2012 - Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels
2013 - Michael Peña (promoting the film Turbo)
- Green flag delivered by Chuck Pagano and Riley Hospital patient Willie Avila
2014 - Mark Cuban
- Green flag delivered by Andrew Luck and Riley Hospital patients MaKenzi Rooksberry and Johliel Austin
2015 - Patrick Dempsey
- Green flag delivered by Paul George, Pat McAfee, and Riley Hospital patient Tori Gwyn
2016 - Chris Pine
- Green flag delivered by workers from IU Health University Hospital
2017 - Jake Gyllenhaal & Jeff Bauman
- Green flags delivered by Nathan Kress and workers from IU Health University Hospital
- Checkered flags delivery by the 101st Airborne Division ("Screaming Eagles")

Celebrity guests

Since the early years of the race, celebrities from all walks of fame have been invited to the race, some have returned for many years or even decades. Television and movie stars, recording artists, sports figures, politicians, and military, are among the many dignitaries invited. During the pre-race, a parade of stars is conducted around the track, usually in convertibles. In numerous years, celebrities have been invited to drive the pace car at the start of the race.

Clark Gable is seen in a famous photograph of the 1947 race. Among the many celebrities who attended or have attended multiple Indy 500s include Jim Nabors, James Garner (who drove the pace car in 1975, 1977 and 1985), David Letterman, Tim Allen, Florence Henderson, Linda Vaughn, and many others. Paul Newman, who starred in the Indy-related film Winning, attended the race many times, and in 1983-1995, and then again in 2008, was at the race as co-owner of Newman/Haas Racing. Joyce DeWitt, who grew up in the Town of Speedway, and graduated from Speedway Senior High School, once worked at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway ticket office.

At least three former U.S. Presidents (and one future President) has attended the Indianapolis 500. Gerald Ford attended the 1979 race, serving also as the grand marshal of the 500 Festival Parade. Both George H. W. Bush and Bill Clinton attended the 2003 race, the first time in Indy history that two former presidents were at the same race. It was the elder Bush's second visit to the Speedway; he previously presided over the opening ceremonies of the 1987 Pan American Games, which was held at the track. Future President Donald Trump attended the race in 2002. Trump was selected to drive the pace car for the 2011 race, but withdrew the duty after drawing controversy from fans.

At least two presidential candidates have visited the Speedway during their respective election campaigns, owning much to the fact that the Indiana primary is usually held May. Ronald Reagan visited the track during the month of May 1976, while he was in town campaigning for the 1976 Indiana Republican primary. Likewise, Hillary Clinton visited the track while campaigning for the 2008 Indiana primary and met with driver Sarah Fisher.

At least three former vice presidents have attended the race. The aforementioned Gerald Ford, George H. W. Bush, and Indiana native Dan Quayle. Qualye has attended the race numerous times, including three times as sitting Vice President (1989-1991). Current Vice President Mike Pence has attended the race multiple times, most recently in 2016, while he was the sitting Governor of Indiana and again in 2017 while he was sitting Vice President.

David Letterman worked as a reporter for ABC Sports during the 1971 race, and attended the race many times as a spectator. Since 2002, he has attended the race as co-owner of Rahal Letterman Racing. The team won the race in 2004 with driver Buddy Rice. At the 2015 race, Letterman was honored on the famous scoring pylon during the pre-race; just four days after he retired from the Late Show.

During the 1960s and early 1970s, several NASA astronauts from the Mercury and Apollo programs were among invited guests.

69 Louis Meyer starts milk-drinking tradition at the 1936 Indy 500 ...

src: hanabi.autoweek.com

Race

For the entire history of the 500 mile race, the official winner of the race has been defined as "the driver who completes the 500 mile distance in the shortest period of time". This means that the winner of the race is declared with their finishing time in hours, minutes, and seconds. Finishers behind the winner were given additional time - more than an hour in many cases - to complete the 500 mile distance. In part, this was because completing the 500 mile distance at over 100 mph of average speed earned a driver a spot in the Champion Spark Plug 100 mph Club. In 1964 as live television coverage became more common, this "extra time" was limited to about 5 minutes, and after 1974, when debris thrown onto the track was a problem in that year, extra time was eliminated. 1975 was the first year in which the lap the winner finishes the race is the final lap for all competitors.
The cars begin the race in a rolling start, traditionally in eleven rows of three, for a field of 33 total cars. Most other automobile races have two cars per row. The 33-car field derives from a 1919 AAA mandate of one car for every 400 feet (120 m) of track. Early races, however, saw varying numbers of starters, from as low as 21, to as high as 42. The number of cars in each row also varied, with as many as five abreast. Since 1933 there have only been the following exceptions to having a field of 33 racers:
- In 1941, 33 cars initially qualified for the field during time trials. Sam Hanks was injured in a practice crash the day before the race and withdrew. Then on the morning of the race, George Barringer's car was destroyed in a fire that swept through the garage area, thus only 31 cars lined up to start the race.
- In 1947, only 30 cars qualified. A boycott over the purse led to the smaller field.
- In 1979, after a rules dispute over turbocharger inlets, and after controversy regarding the refusal of some entries from members of the CART series, a special fifth day of qualifying was added. However, only two cars ran sufficient speeds to be added to the field, and 35 cars lined up to start the race. Heavy attrition early on saw one car fail to complete a lap, and 7 cars out by lap 22.
- In 1997, which used an "all exempt tour" concept similar to the PGA Tour since 1983, the top 25 teams headed in Indy Racing League team entry points standings earned exemptions into the field, with the top nine non-exempt cars making the race on speed. Some exempt teams bumped out other non-exempt cars that had actually qualified with faster speeds, but their teams were not in the top 25 of League points. Two bumped cars were restored to the field to ensure that the "33 fastest entries" were part of the field, for a total of 35 starters. Ironically on the pace lap, three cars crashed out together, while two suffered mechanical problems, and only 30 cars took the green flag. (A similar rule was used at the Crown Royal presents the Your Hero's Name Here 400 from 2005 to 2012 and the Lilly Diabetes 250 from 2012 to 2014. Both were NASCAR races which guaranteed a position for the top 35 drivers in the owners standings in the Sprint Cup Series and top 30 drivers for the Xfinity Series.)
Tom Carnegie announced on June 9, 2006 that the previous month's race, would be his last as official track announcer. Having called the race since 1946 on the public address system, he is best known for his lines, "He's on it!" (signaling the start of a qualifying attempt), "It's a new track record!" (when a driver surpasses either a one- or four-lap track record in qualifications), and "He's slowing down on the backstretch!" or "Andretti's slowing down!" (The latter for the Andretti family's historical misfortune at Indianapolis.). Indianapolis television personality David Calabro became the second PA announcer in the Hulman-George era after Carnegie's retirement for the 2007 race.

src: usatftw.files.wordpress.com

Post-race

Victory lane bottle of milk

A long-standing tradition of the Indianapolis 500 is for the winner to drink a bottle of milk immediately after the race. This tradition dates back to 1936 after victor Louis Meyer asked for a glass of buttermilk, something his mother had encouraged him to drink on hot days. Meyer also reportedly drank milk after his victory in 1933, as did a few others in the immediate years afterward. The young tradition quickly went away, and for a time after World War II, was replaced by "Water From Wilbur" - a silver jug (resembling an ice bucket) filled with icy-cold water, presented by then-Speedway president, and three-time former winner Wilbur Shaw.

By 1956, the milk returned as a ritual as milk companies became sponsors of the race purse and handed a bottle of milk to the winner to promote their product. A sponsorship of currently $10,000 now paid out by the American Dairy Association if the winner sips the milk in victory lane. In 1993, Emerson Fittipaldi drank orange juice instead of milk after his victory. The snub drew considerable ire from fans. Later he took a sip of milk, at the urging of his car owner Roger Penske. Fittipaldi owned citrus farms in Brazil, and wished to promote his industry. As a result, he was booed in driver's introductions the following week by the crowd in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in the heart of "America's Dairyland." In 1981, Bobby Unser also did not drink the milk in victory lane. After Unser was tentatively stripped of his victory, Mario Andretti sipped from a bottle of milk the next morning during the traditional photo shoot.

Borg-Warner Trophy

A bas-relief sculpture of the winner's face, along with his name, average speed, and date of victory is added to the Borg-Warner Trophy. The trophy has been in use since 1936. A smaller replica of this trophy has been officially presented to the winner after the race since 1988 and team principal since 1997, usually in a press conference either at the Speedway or in Detroit at the North American International Auto Show at the BorgWarner exhibit, except for the 2011 race because of extenuating circumstances (the winning driver had died in a crash at an aborted INDYCAR race; the winning team principal and the driver's widow were presented with the respective trophies in the ensuing January). Prior to that, winners received a replica mounted on a chestnut plaque.

Selected awards

The winner has been awarded one of the pace cars, or a replica, almost every year since 1936. In 1941, there were only six copies of the special Chrysler Newport Phaeton, and no production models created. The co-winners did not receive it. In 1946, an oil painting and a trip was substituted as the award, but winner George Robson died in a motor sports accident before he received it. In 1971, Al Unser received a Dodge Charger from Palmer Dodge in the Indianapolis area, after the Dodge Challenger safety car was damaged in the start crash. Palmer repaired the car and kept it until selling in 2006 to local car collector Steven Cage. In 1991, the Dodge Viper was still a prototype vehicle, and only two were in existence. Winner Rick Mears was awarded instead a Dodge Stealth, which was to be the original pace car but after protests by the UAW (because the Stealth was a captive import built by Mitsubishi in Japan), they were instead used at the track for festival cars.
Among the numerous awards presented to the winner is the traditional Winner's Quilt. Since 1976, Jeanetta Holder has hand-crafted a special quilt blanket for the winner, which features an Indy-related design. She presents the quilt to the winning driver the morning after the race, during the traditional winner's photo shoot.
The morning after the race, the winning driver and team participates in the traditional winner's photo shoot at the start-finish line. The 1981 photo shoot is notable in that race winner Bobby Unser was stripped of the victory when official results were posted. Second place Mario Andretti was elevated to the win, and Andretti took part in the photo shoot. Later in the year, Unser was reinstated the victory. In 2009, heavy rain on Monday morning forced Hélio Castroneves' photo shoot to take place indoors.
The night after the race, the prizes are distributed at the annual 500 Victory Banquet. The traditional awards banquet dates back many decades. In 1972, the black-tie gala was moved to the Indiana Convention Center, and was held there until the mid-2000s. In more recent years, it has been held at a pavilion on the grounds of the Speedway. The 1973 banquet was cancelled due to the rain delay and tragic circumstances surrounding the event. For a brief time (2000-2001), the banquet was held on Sunday night, a few hours after the conclusion of the race. The 2000 race did not end until nearly 6 p.m. due to a rain delay, and participants had to rush downtown to make the banquet on time. In 2002, the banquet was moved back to Monday night. In 1986, the race was delayed until the following Saturday due to rain, and the banquet was cancelled due to scheduling concerns. A private victory luncheon for the top three finishers was held the day after the race at the Speedway Motel.

Related events

In the days leading up the race, numerous other related and unrelated events are held in and around Indianapolis.

Tony Hulman Classic - Terre Haute Action Track (USAC Sprints)
Hoosier Hundred - Indiana State Fairgrounds (USAC Silver Crown Series)
Carb Night Classic (formerly the Night Before the 500) - Lucas Oil Raceway at Indianapolis.
The Little 500 - Anderson Speedway: A 500-lap sprint car race held the night before the Indianapolis 500 at Anderson Speedway in Anderson, Indiana since 1949.
Carb Night Burger Bash - Since 2008, Curt Cavin (formerly of The Indianapolis Star) and Kevin Lee (WFNI/NBCSN) host a reception in Indianapolis on the Friday evening before the race (Carb Day). The reception raises money for charity, and is highlighted by guest appearances by drivers from the starting field, former drivers, and other Indy personalities. From 2008 to 2015, the event was held at 96th Street Steakburgers. Since 2016, it has been held downtown, sponsored by Steak 'n Shake.

As of 2017, the four racing events are held over four consecutive nights, leading up to the Indy 500 on Sunday. The Hulman Classic is typically Wednesday night, the Hoosier Hundred Thursday night, the Carb Night Classic Friday night, and the Little 500 on Saturday night.

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References

Source of the article : Wikipedia

Monday, January 29, 2018