The 101st Running of the Indianapolis 500 is now behind us and carved into the history books. History was made (and almost made) on several fronts. Twenty-six years after Hiro Matsushita became the first Japanese driver to qualify for the Indianapolis 500, Takuma Sato became the first to win it. We already knew that of all the Japanese drivers that have come and gone since then, that Sato was the best of the lot and the most personable. Not only is he personable compared to past Japanese drivers – he is one of the most personable and well-liked drivers in the current paddock. I think he has always been respected by most of his fellow drivers. Now fans have seen first-hand, what an exceptional driver he is.
Archive for May, 2017
Random Thoughts On The Indianapolis 500
Posted in Indianapolis 500 on May 30, 2017 by OilpressureStrange Race, Great Finish
Posted in Indianapolis 500 on May 28, 2017 by Oilpressure
What a strange race that was! It was like three races put together that had no rhythm. But what a finish over the final twelve laps!
It’s Indianapolis 500 Race Day At IMS!
Posted in Indianapolis 500 on May 28, 2017 by Oilpressure
Good morning from a surprisingly dry Indianapolis Motor Speedway. We had expected to drive in this morning in a torrential downpour. Last evening, the forecast for today was ominous. Things look fine right now. I’m not a meteorologist, but looking at the radar – I’m thinking they just might get an entire race in.
Race Day Memories
Posted in Indianapolis 500 on May 28, 2017 by Oilpressure
Normally, I don’t re-post things I’ve already written. It seems sort of like a re-run. I originally wrote this in 2009 – the first year of this site. I re-posted it a couple of times but figured that was enough. Last weekend, I spoke with someone who remembered it and asked if I would put it up again on Race Morning. Keep in mind, it was written in 2009, so I edited a couple of things to bring it up to date. Since there are many who have never seen it before, I figure I would put it up on the site to have something sort of new up here until I get to the track a little later. Please check back then. – GP
Legend’s Day
Posted in Indianapolis 500 on May 27, 2017 by Oilpressure
By Susan Phillips
We slept a little later than we wanted, so I missed all but the end of the classic roadster action this morning. My timing was good because I managed to get there just in time for the arrival of the drivers for the Annual Driver’s Meeting. Into the mêlée I went with my trusty Canon EOS Rebel, which I think is the photographic equivalent of a flip phone. It was fun to see how the drivers arrived to the meeting. Some had entourages. Conor Daly and Mario, and others drove the golf cart (once a driver, always a driver), and some simply walked in. I think Alonso finally spotted me (I really think he was pointing to someone behind me).
Let The Mayhem Again!
Posted in Indianapolis 500 on May 26, 2017 by Oilpressure
The Verizon IndyCar Series had their final practice this morning and ten the Indy Lights Freedom 100 took place. As I type, the Tag Heuer Pit Stop Competition is taking place. I was out in the crowd for the practice and the race, but I took to the confines of the IMS Media Center for the Pit Stop Competition.
Welcome To Carb Day At IMS!
Posted in Indianapolis 500 on May 26, 2017 by Oilpressure
Just a quick post here to say we made it in time for the first practice, which starts in about ten minutes from the time I type. The crowd here is maddening. That’s good if you’re IMS and want to see this event grow. It’s a pain after you’ve been here for the past two weekends and grown used to manageable crowds.
Oilpressure 