When you meet Indianapolis Motor Speedway President J. Douglas Boles, you quickly realize his unbridled enthusiasm for both the world’s greatest race course and the month of May.
While he has always been generous with his time, he was again kind enough to take my phone call recently to discuss the inaugural Grand Prix of Indianapolis, how his life has changed since being appointed president at 16th and Georgetown, and of course the 2014 Indianapolis 500.
Recorder: The decision to hold the inaugural Grand Prix of Indianapolis in May before the Indianapolis 500 was viewed by some traditionalists as a bold move. What ultimately led to the decision?
Boles: We viewed it as a way to showcase the series differently while utilizing the facility to add a points-paying race to the mix.
Did you consult with the drivers before the decision was arrived at?
We made a point to communicate with all those who are stakeholders. That includes fans, suite holders, drivers and teams. The dialogue was meaningful and it gave them a voice.
Recently it was announced that Jason Aldean would perform at IMS the weekend of the 500. Are you concerned at all that such events might detract from the allure of the race?
No, not at all. I think the best example I can offer is the Super Bowl. There are multiple events leading up to the game. The 500 is obviously still the cornerstone.
Would you agree that the addition of former winners Juan Pablo Montoya and Jacques Villeneuve to this year’s Indianapolis 500 entry list is a major boost for the event?
Yes, we certainly are elated to have both former champions back here looking to win their second 500. They have competed at a high level globally and we welcome them back.
As someone who grew up recognizing the Indianapolis Motor Speedway as the “cathedral of motorsports,” do you sometimes pinch yourself thinking about the fact that you are now president?
Certainly. About 25 times a day actually. The significance of this job is something that is not lost on me. I am extremely fortunate to have this opportunity.
NOTES: While he was focused on the Indy 500, Boles also spoke glowingly in regards to the NASCAR and Moto GP events that will once again be held at IMS this year. The Brickyard 400 will be July 27 and the Moto GP bikes invade IMS on Aug. 10.
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IMS continues to offer some of the best fan hospitality options in all of motorsports. You can take advantage of those for all the 2014 events by calling for more information at (317) 492-8500.
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Three-time Indy 500 winner Dario Franchitti has been tapped to drive the pace car for the 2014 Indy 500. Franchitti recently retired as a driver and works as a consultant to Ganassi Racing.
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Tickets for the inaugural Indianapolis Grand Prix which will be on May 10, are available now at the IMS box office or on their website at: Indianapolismotorspeedway.com.
Danny Bridges who attended his first Indy 500 as a wide-eyed 8-year-old in 1967, 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.
