Indianapolis 500

Indianapolis 500 --- Indianapolis Motor Speedway

The History of the Indy 500:

The Indianapolis 500, known as “the greatest spectacle in racing” is the largest single day sporting event in the world, as the track capacity is around 400,000.This historic event is held annually over Memorial Day weekend at the legendary Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

 

The Indianapolis Motor Speedway complex was built in 1909 as a gravel-and-tar track and hosted a number of small events before the promoters decided to focus on just one major event. The track was then paved with 3.2 million bricks, urged by principal owner Carl G. Fisher after several deaths related to the unsteady racing surface. The creation of a 500 mile race allowed the track to rapidly acquire a privileged status for automobile races.

 

Racing has come a very long way in the last 100 years.The first "500" was held at the Speedway on Memorial Day, May 30, 1911.The spectators of this race totaled over 82,000 and admission was only 1 dollar. Many of the drivers rode along with mechanics, who checked the oil, and acted as a “spotter”.The Indianapolis 500 has such a long history that many pre and post race traditions have taken place.One of the most noted traditions is for the victor to drink a bottle of milk after the race.This tradition started in 1936 when race winner Louis Meyer asked for a glass of buttermilk.Today, the American Dairy Association now sponsors drivers who sip milk in victory lane.In addition to getting a cold glass of milk, the victor also gets their face, name, average speed, and date of victory on the Borg-Warner Trophy.

What to do at the Speedway:

When visiting Indianapolis Motor Speedway we always recommend that you pay a visit to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame Museum. The museum houses numerous race cars of all types and early manufactured cars built out of the state of Indiana. Admission to the museum can be granted to anyone traveling to the Indy 500.

Many other photo worthy sites at the track included the famed Yard of Bricks that is located at the track’s start/finish line. Another site to behold is the 10 level pagoda located at the speedway. The pagoda houses race control and broadcast facilities for racing events held at the track. The pagoda first made its appearance at the track in 1913 before being replaced in 1925 with a more modern structure.

What to do in Indianapolis:

Indianapolis offers much to do including shopping at local malls including Castleton Square Mall and The Fashion Mall, Keystone at the Crossing. Both options offer numerous outlets to make sure you do not return home empty handed after your visit to Indianapolis.

Other notable establishments in Indianapolis include Lucas Oil Stadium, home of the Indianapolis Colts and host of the Final Four. As well a trip to visit Soldier and Sailors Monument offers a great photo opportunity near the centrally located fountain in downtown Indianapolis.