Although cyt short by rain, here are thestandings for Practice session 2:
Practice 2 Results
Tag: Indianapolis Motor Speedway
Newgarden Tops Morning Session
@023 500 winner Josef Newgarden lead the morning session of the open test at IMS on a cool day interrupted by raindrops several times. Rookie orientation had a brief weather dely. ALl rookies have completed the program, and Katherine Legge needed some time in the afternoon session to complete her refresher. All 34 cars are cleared to participate the rest of the day and tomorrow, weather permitting.
Biggest surprise of the morning was Kyle Larson posting the second fastest time., ).42 seconds behind Newgarden.
Notes
David Malukas will not drive at Long Beach. Arrow McLaren has not announced his replacement, but many believe it will be theo Pourchaire.
Rain is falling at the moment and no track drying is taking place. We may be done for the day.
Results:
IMS Testing, Day 1
The schedule with revised times:
Today and tomorrow are the only days teams have to prepare for the 108th running of the Indianapolis 500 before practice officially begins May 14.
Rookie Orientation: Simpson, Rasmussen, Siegel (Larson, Blomqvist, Lundqvist, Armstrong completed in Oct)
Phase 1: 10 laps between 205-210 mph
Phase 2: 15 laps at 210-215
Phase 3: 15 laps 215 mph+
Veteran Refresher: Andretti, Fittipaldi, Legge
Have to do Phases 2 and 3
I assume the gates will open early as well, but I have no confirmation of that.
The weather looks sketchy today and tomorrow, so keep an eye on the skies as you head out to IMS.
Parking and seating information Note- Check gate opening time for today. Perhaps Doug Boles will demonstrate the proper way to scale a fence on a video should you arrive early.
I am interested in seeing how Kyle Larson does in traffic with the veterans. Should the three remaining rookies pass their tests in the allotted time, there will be seven rookies running in the afternoon.
Honda has had a Speedway power advantage the past few years. Has Chevy finally caught them? I’m not sure if these two days will tell us everything, but we may get a hint.
I will be at the track and provide updates all day. I also have several bits f news to catch up on.
Wednesday Test Schedule Revised
Due to approaching inclement weather, Indycar has made a slight adjustment to tomorrow’s test times. Thursday’s schedule remains the same for now.
Arrow McLaren has confirmed that Callum Ilott will fill in for David Malukas for the test.
From earlier:
Dark Skies, Bright Hearts
From Indycar:
NTT INDYCAR SERIES drivers and teams will participate from 9 a.m.-6:30 p.m. ET Wednesday, April 10 and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Thursday, April 11 on the famed 2.5-mile oval at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The Open Test is being conducted in advance of the 108th Running of the Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge on Sunday, May 26.
After an install lap for all cars from 9-9:05 a.m., veterans will take to the oval from 9:05-11 a.m. Wednesday, with the Rookie Orientation Program and refresher tests from 11 a.m-1 p.m. All eligible participants will be permitted on track from 1-6:30 p.m. Thursday’s testing is open to all drivers eligible for participation.
NTT INDYCAR SERIES teams, drivers scheduled to participate:
AJ Foyt Racing: Santino Ferrucci, Sting Ray Robb
Andretti Global: Marco Andretti, Marcus Ericsson, Colton Herta, Kyle Kirkwood
Arrow McLaren: Kyle Larson, Pato O’Ward, Alexander Rossi, TBA
Chip Ganassi Racing: Marcus Armstrong, Scott Dixon, Linus Lundqvist, Alex Palou, Kyffin Simpson
Dale Coyne Racing: Katherine Legge, Nolan Siegel
Dreyer & Reinbold Racing/Cusick Motorsports: Conor Daly, Ryan Hunter-Reay
Ed Carpenter Racing: Ed Carpenter, Christian Rasmussen, Rinus VeeKay
Juncos Hollinger Racing: Agustin Canapino, Romain Grosjean
Meyer Shank Racing: Tom Blomqvist, Helio Castroneves, Felix Rosenqvist
Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing: Pietro Fittipaldi, Christian Lundgaard, Graham Rahal, Takuma Sato
Team Penske: Scott McLaughlin, Josef Newgarden, Will Power
The sessions will be streamed live on Peacock
Dark Skies, Bright Hearts
Putting an experience like yesterday’s total solar eclipse into words is difficult. Please indulge this poor attempt at expressing my thoughts. I’ll get to the facts in a bit.
First, IMS did a stellar (no pun intended…well, maybe) job putting together the program yesterday. There were plenty of activities for all ages as we waited for the celestial event to begin. The crowd looked and felt as if it were Grand Prix race day.
At the moment of totality, I felt humble at being at the mercy of a natural force that I could not control. Humans have conquered much of nature, but an eclipse is totally out of mankind’s grasp.
I have had several thrilling encounters with raw nature- a female elk running straight toward me, close enough that I could get a whiff of her scent; a whale rising up in front of my tour boat, creating a wall that blocked the view beyond it; a moose so close that I could pet it if I chose to- but yesterday they all became mere trivial occasions to what I witnessed in the sky above the speedway.
I had a sense of gratitude at being able to witness one of the natural events on my bucket list. I had lost hope of ever getting to witness a total eclipse. The partial one in 2017 was neat, but unsatisfying. I am thankful that I could watch at my happy place, and share it with so many people. At my spot in Pagoda Plaza, strangers smiled at each other. We became a brotherhood as we shared the experience.
Parts of the eclipse took me by surprise, and other parts i expected. I enjoyed watching the moon creep across the sun, the ebony disc growing larger and large, covering the yellow orb.
The sudden darkness at totality shocked me. It was like turning off the light in a windowless room. The flash of light as total coverage ended was strangely a relief that the sun had returned. As we walked back to our car, we stopped every few feet to watch as the inched out of the sun’s path.
If I never get a chance to see another solar eclipse, I’ll be fine. The frustrating thing is, I now really want to see another one.
Showmen Extraordinaire
Credit the Speedway, Doug Boles, and Allison Melangton, with the help of NASA and Purdue University, for putting together an amazing pre eclipse program.
When the event was first announced, I thought, “This is cute. They will probably have 20,000 people there.” I had no idea how this would work.
There was an aggressive marketing campaign, as more than 50,000 people attended. Viewers came from all 50 states and more than 30 countries. While other sites may have had more open views and probably saw more stars (We saw one at the track), I would not have wanted to be anywhere else for the eclipse.
I will have some more photos u on The Pit Window Facebook page later today.
Eclipse Day at IMS
Today is arguably the second most anticipated day in Indianapolis Motor Speedway history. A total solar eclipse, which last made a path across Indiana 89 years ago, will darken the sky just a bit after 3 pm this afternoon.
IMS has a full day of activity planned. The track has teamed up with Purdue and NASA to provide information and educational activities.
Today’s schedule at the track:
Schedule (all times ET)
9 a.m.: Gates open; Gates 2, 3 and 6
10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.: Educational programming
1 p.m.: NASA broadcast begins
1:10 p.m.: Opening ceremonies
1:35 p.m.: INDYCAR SERIES demo laps
1:50:34 p.m.: Solar eclipse begins with partial
2:15 p.m.: Frontstretch of oval track opens for guest viewing
3:06:04 p.m.: Totality begins
3:07:59 p.m.: Max totality
3:09:54 p.m.: Totality ends
3:25 p.m.: Closing ceremonies
3:30 p.m.: Astronaut and driver autograph session
4 p.m.: Gates close
4:23:13 p.m.: Partial ends
4:30 p.m.: NASA broadcast concludes
Drivers and astronauts at the autograph session:
Tickets have been sold in all 50 states and several international locations.
If I know the Speedway, renewal notices will go out tomorrow for the next eclipse in the year 2153.
Thousands Expected for Full Day of Fun, Science during Total Solar Eclipse at IMS
| Don’t Be Left in the Dark: Arrive Early for Full Experience INDIANAPOLIS (Wednesday, April 3, 2024) – With 35,000 to 50,000 spectators expected to attend the Total Solar Eclipse Event at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway presented by Purdue University on Monday, April 8, guests are encouraged to arrive early to enjoy a wide array of exhibits, experiments, panel-led discussions, demonstrations and photo opportunities. Tickets have been purchased from 49 states, the District of Columbia and more than 21 other countries and territories, including Argentina, Austria, Brazil, Canada, Czech Republic, Dominican Republic, England, France, Germany, Greenland, Japan, Lithuania, Mexico, Northern Ireland, Philippines, Poland, Romania, South Africa, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland. There’s no better place to enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime experience than at the Racing Capital of the World. NASA TV Live Broadcast The IMS Total Solar Eclipse Event presented by Purdue University has been designated one of several official broadcast sites for NASA TV’s coverage of the astronomical phenomenon. Special Guests Among the guests expected in attendance are members of Indiana’s congressional delegation, Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb, NASA Deputy Administrator Pam Melroy, and Mark and Rick Armstrong, the sons of Purdue graduate and first man on the moon Neil Armstrong.Multiple astronauts and NTT INDYCAR SERIES drivers also will be in attendance. Drivers and astronauts will be featured throughout the day as subject matter experts, as well as participating in an autograph session to conclude the day’s events. Programming Two educational programming tracks will run concurrently. The Sun Track will be more technical in nature. The Moon Track is tailored for youth and families. All programming will feature experts from NASA, Purdue University and INDYCAR. On-Track Action At the start of the NASA TV global broadcast, the NTT INDYCAR SERIES will be on full display for spectators. Three-time Indianapolis 500 pole winner Ed Carpenter will turn a handful of demonstration laps of the 2.5-mile oval in an Ed Carpenter Racing Chevrolet INDYCAR SERIES car just before the start of the Total Solar Eclipse sequence.Once the demonstration laps conclude, guests will be invited to the frontstretch of the famed oval, where they can experience the total solar eclipse. Educational Exhibits NASA will have more than a dozen educational exhibits with which attendees can interact. Faculty, students and subject matter experts from Purdue University, Indiana Space Grant Consortium and Near Space Education also will offer exhibits, booths, demonstrations and displays, available throughout the day in IMS’ Trackside Garages, turned Exhibit Hall. Exhibits include: Artemis Human Landing Program With the Artemis campaign, NASA is using innovative technologies to explore more of the lunar surface than ever before. The exhibit includes Artemis II Astro Cut Outs, tabletop models, a docking simulator and an inflatable dome. Rockets to RacecarsThere are many parallels between the technology used on the track and in space. This display highlights those similarities with model cars, tires, a shuttle nose and mannequins with cooling gear and fire suits. RS-25 Engine The RS-25 powered the space shuttle for over three decades and completed 135 missions. It is one of the most tested large rocket engines in history. Guests can enjoy a tabletop model, view an actual RS-25 engine and test the engine using virtual reality. In addition, attendees can take photos with the Borg-Warner Trophy, Visit Indy’s _NDY Sculpture and an eclipse-themed INDYCAR SERIES race car. Schedule (all times ET) 9 a.m.: Gates open; Gates 2, 3 and 6 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.: Educational programming 1 p.m.: NASA broadcast begins 1:10 p.m.: Opening ceremonies 1:35 p.m.: INDYCAR SERIES demo laps 1:50:34 p.m.: Solar eclipse begins with partial 2:15 p.m.: Frontstretch of oval track opens for guest viewing 3:06:04 p.m.: Totality begins 3:07:59 p.m.: Max totality 3:09:54 p.m.: Totality ends 3:25 p.m.: Closing ceremonies 3:30 p.m.: Astronaut and driver autograph session 4 p.m.: Gates close 4:23:13 p.m.: Partial ends 4:30 p.m.: NASA broadcast concludes The Greatest Spectacles Eclipse viewing glasses, named “The Greatest Spectacles,” will be complimentary and made available to all guests upon entry. Visit IMS.com to purchase tickets for the Total Solar Eclipse Event presented by Purdue University. |
2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 RST Presented as 500 Festival Event Vehicle
INDIANAPOLIS (Tuesday, April 2, 2024) – Thirty-five identical 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 RST trucks were staged on the main straightaway April 2 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, a clear sign the Month of May is around the corner. A longtime tradition, the “Festival Event Vehicles” have reminded Indianapolis-area residents of the upcoming Indianapolis 500 since the 1960s. The unique fleet of trucks will turn heads and capture attention throughout the state in the lead-up to the Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge. Presenting the trucks were J. Douglas Boles, IMS president; Pat Merna, 500 Festival vice president, strategic partnerships; Mike Boatright, 500 Festival board chair; and Mike Quinn, Chevrolet Indianapolis district sales manager. \The 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 RST 4WD Crew Cab is powered by a 6.2-liter V-8 and boasts 420 horsepower and a 10-speed automatic transmission. With body-color bumpers, center grille bars and door handles and dual active exhaust with sport mode, the Festival Event Vehicle is designed for those who seek adrenaline and action. Built by fellow Hoosiers at the Fort Wayne Assembly plant, these trucks are ready to hit the streets with Radiant Red Tintcoat exterior, Jet Black leather interior, 22-inch high-gloss Black-painted aluminum wheels and custom Indianapolis 500 graphics. “The tradition of providing Festival Event Vehicles is a hallmark in the countdown to the Month of May and the Indianapolis 500,” Quinn said. “Seeing these Silverados on the road throughout Central Indiana will embody the passion Chevrolet, IMS and the 500 Festival have for the Indianapolis 500.”The 108th Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge is scheduled for Sunday, May 26. Visit IMS.com for tickets and more information on all Month of May events and activities at IMS. Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world’s largest car brands, available in 80 countries. Chevrolet models include electric and fuel-efficient vehicles that feature engaging performance, design that makes the heart beat, passive and active safety features and easy-to-use technology, all at a value. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com. |
Driven2SaveLives BC39 Dates Announced for Sept. 26-28
From IMS. I am happy that they kept this event in this slot.
| Ticket Renewals, Applications Now Open INDIANAPOLIS (Thursday, March 28, 2024) – Mark your calendars for the sixth running of the Driven2SaveLives BC39, which will be held Sept. 26-28 at The Dirt Track at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The standalone, three-day event spotlights the wheel-to-wheel racing of the United States Auto Club (USAC) NOS Energy Drink National Midget Championship.Action under the lights will start Thursday, Sept. 26 and continue through the 39-lap feature race Saturday, Sept. 28. Fans who attended the 2023 Driven2SaveLives BC39 can renew their tickets now at IMS.com/bc39 or by calling 317-492-6700. The renewal window will continue through Friday, April 12. In addition, fans who did not attend last year’s event can apply for tickets now at the lowest prices of the year. The event format, ticket information and other event details will be announced in the future. The event on the quarter-mile dirt oval inside Turn 3 at IMS will continue to honor late USAC champion and three-time Indianapolis 500 starter Bryan Clauson and increase awareness of the importance of organ donation. Race fans can register to be organ donors onsite at the Driven2SaveLives tent. “It is the generosity of donors and donor families, like Bryan and the Clauson family, that makes saving lives through organ and tissue donation and transplantation possible,” said Indiana Donor Network President and CEO Kellie Tremain. “In 2016, Bryan saved five lives as an organ donor and helped heal countless others as a tissue donor. His decision brought hope and healing to many others. We look forward to honoring Bryan and all donors at this year’s BC39, which helps raise awareness about the importance of organ and tissue donation.” “The BC39 remains one of my favorite events on the IMS calendar,” IMS President J. Douglas Boles said. “Not only do we get to honor the memory of Bryan Clauson by encouraging fans to register for organ donation through the Indiana Donor Network, but we get to share our passion for short tracks across the country through this incredibly competitive series and its talented drivers.” Seventy-two cars participated in the 2023 event at IMS, making the Driven2SaveLives BC39 the largest USAC NOS Energy Drink Midget National Championship field of the year. California racer Justin Grant, a childhood friend and longtime competitor of event namesake Bryan Clauson, won the 2023 Driven2SaveLives BC39 after a fierce duel with teammate Thomas Meseraull. |
The Pit Window by Mike Silver 