37 Facts About Indianapolis 500

The Birth of the Indianapolis 500

The Indianapolis 500, often called the Indy 500, is one of the most famous car races in the world. Held annually at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, it has a rich history filled with fascinating facts.

1. 01The first Indianapolis 500 race took place on May 30, 1911.
2. 02Ray Harroun won the inaugural race driving a Marmon Wasp.
3. 03The race was created by Carl G. Fisher, James A. Allison, Arthur C. Newby, and Frank H. Wheeler.
4. 04The original prize for the winner was $25,000, a huge sum at the time.
5. 05The Indianapolis Motor Speedway was originally paved with 3.2 million bricks, earning it the nickname "The Brickyard."

The Track and Its Unique Features

The Indianapolis Motor Speedway is not just any racetrack. Its unique features and history make it stand out.

6. 06The track is 2.5 miles long.
7. 07It is the largest sports venue in the world, with a capacity of over 250,000 seats.
8. 08The track's surface is now mostly asphalt, but a 36-inch strip of the original bricks remains at the start/finish line.
9. 09The speedway is so large that Churchill Downs, Yankee Stadium, the Rose Bowl, the Roman Colosseum, and Vatican City could all fit inside it simultaneously.
10. 10The track has four distinct turns, each banked at 9 degrees.

Iconic Traditions of the Indy 500

The Indy 500 is steeped in traditions that have become iconic over the years.

11. 11The winner traditionally drinks a bottle of milk in Victory Lane.
12. 12This milk-drinking tradition started in 1936 when Louis Meyer requested buttermilk after his win.
13. 13The Borg-Warner Trophy, awarded to the winner, features the faces of all past champions.
14. 14The race is always held over Memorial Day weekend.
15. 15The command "Drivers, start your engines!" is one of the most famous phrases in motorsports.

Record-Breaking Moments

The Indy 500 has seen numerous records set and broken, showcasing the incredible talent of its drivers.

16. 16A.J. Foyt, Al Unser, and Rick Mears share the record for the most wins, each with four victories.
17. 17The fastest average speed for a winning car is 187.433 mph, set by Tony Kanaan in 2013.
18. 18The youngest winner is Troy Ruttman, who was 22 years old when he won in 1952.
19. 19The oldest winner is Al Unser, who was 47 years old when he won in 1987.
20. 20The closest finish in history was in 1992 when Al Unser Jr. beat Scott Goodyear by just 0.043 seconds.

Women in the Indy 500

Women have made significant contributions to the history of the Indy 500, breaking barriers and setting records.

21. 21Janet Guthrie was the first woman to qualify for the Indy 500 in 1977.
22. 22Danica Patrick is the highest-finishing female driver, placing third in 2009.
23. 23Sarah Fisher has the most starts by a female driver, with nine races.
24. 24Lyn St. James was the first woman to win the Rookie of the Year award in 1992.
25. 25Pippa Mann is the only woman to have competed in both the Indy 500 and the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

The Cars and Technology

The cars that race in the Indy 500 are marvels of engineering, constantly evolving to push the limits of speed and safety.

26. 26The cars are known as IndyCars and are specifically designed for high-speed oval racing.
27. 27Modern IndyCars can reach speeds of over 230 mph.
28. 28The cars are powered by 2.2-liter V6 turbocharged engines.
29. 29Each car must weigh at least 1,570 pounds, including the driver.
30. 30The cars use Firestone tires, which are specially designed for the high speeds and demands of the race.

The Fans and the Spectacle

The Indy 500 is not just a race; it's a massive event that draws fans from all over the world.

31. 31The race attracts over 300,000 spectators each year, making it one of the largest single-day sporting events in the world.
32. 32The infield of the track becomes a massive party zone, known as the Snake Pit.
33. 33The race is broadcast in over 200 countries.
34. 34The pre-race ceremonies include the singing of "Back Home Again in Indiana," a tradition since 1946.
35. 35The Purdue University All-American Marching Band has performed at the race every year since 1927.

The Impact of the Indy 500

The Indy 500 has had a significant impact on motorsports and popular culture.

36. 36The race has inspired numerous movies, including the 1969 film "Winning" starring Paul Newman.
37. 37The Indy 500 has also influenced the design and safety features of everyday cars, with many innovations tested on the track before being implemented in consumer vehicles.

The Final Lap

The Indianapolis 500 isn't just a race; it's a cultural phenomenon. From its humble beginnings in 1911 to becoming the "Greatest Spectacle in Racing," the event has seen countless historic moments and legendary drivers. Whether you're a die-hard racing fan or just curious, the Indy 500 offers something for everyone. The roar of the engines, the smell of burning rubber, and the sheer excitement make it an unforgettable experience.

With its rich history and traditions, like the winner drinking milk, the Indy 500 continues to captivate audiences worldwide. So next time Memorial Day weekend rolls around, tune in or, better yet, visit the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. You'll witness a piece of American history in action.

Thanks for joining us on this ride through the fascinating facts of the Indy 500. Keep your engines running and your curiosity alive!