Change can be difficult to accept in life, especially when there is time-tested tradition involved.
Like many racing fans born and bred in this region, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway is hallowed ground, and in my opinion, the undisputed “cathedral of motor sports.” After all, it has been a right of passage to usher in the month of May at IMS with the greatest race in the world with all the pomp and pageantry that surrounds it since I was old enough to recognize the significance of it all.
So when I learned there was going to be an additional event at 16th and Georgetown this year, I must admit I cringed and initially refused to embrace it.
When one is unsure, the best solution is to seek the council of an expert. One who has done it all and accomplished everything there is to do in their field. Enter one Mario Andretti. Arguably the most versatile driver ever, he graciously took time to converse with me and explain his thoughts about the historic changes at IMS.
“I too had mixed emotions when I first heard the announcement,” said the 1969 Indy 500 winner from his office in Pennsylvania. “There is so much tradition at Indianapolis, and the place is just so special to me.”
After conferring with current drivers including those who are part of his son Michael’s incredibly successful Indy Car team, Andretti found the new course was to competitors’ liking and should provide a platform for exciting racing.
“What I have learned is that this course has the type of grip needed to overtake in areas that allow passing,” the 1978 Formula One champ said. “The original course was slippery and that was a problem for drivers.”
Andretti added that he always wants what is best for the series and acknowledged that a points-paying race is certainly important in the quest for a championship. “I support this event fully and look forward to being there.”
NOTES: Andretti pilots the Indy Racing Experience two seater before Indy Car events. To learn more or to schedule a two seater ride, log on to indyracingexperience.com.
You can meet Mario on May 24 at IMS when he is honored on Legends Day. Andretti will conduct a Q&A session and sign autographs as well.
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Practice for the inaugural Indianapolis Grand Prix begins on May 8. Admission is free. On May 9 practice resumes along with qualifications for the Grand Prix event. Tickets for the race on May 10 are still available and start at $25. For more info log on to indianapolismotorspeedway.com.
Danny Bridges, who did not tell Mario Andretti that as a young boy he once spray painted his stingray bike to match Andretti’s race car, can be reached at (317) 578-1780, or at Bridgeshd@aol.com.
Danny Bridges is an award-winning journalist and a longtime sports columnist for the Indianapolis Recorder. He covers college, professional sports and especially all things IndyCar racing. He can be reached at 317-370-8447 or at bridgeshd@aol.com.
