Dixon Makes History
The field has now been set for the 106th Running of the Indianapolis 500. The new two-round knockout qualifying format was put to the test under partly sunny skies and cool temperatures.
It was a good show for the fans and the TV audience, but I’m not sure this is something that the teams and drivers are particularly fond of.
Qualifying for the Indianapolis 500 has always been tough. You always fear that a driver may wad up a perfectly good car, while pushing the limit. Drivers in the Fast Six had to qualify at least three times. I have mixed emotions now that we have one of these in the books.
But like it or not, we got to see history in the making. Scott Dixon turned the second-fastest four-lap average in the history of this race. I was not here in 1996, when Arie Luyendyk posted the record of over 236 mph. But as I watched Dixon cross the line to take the checkered flag, I could feel the goosebumps on the back of my neck.
In the process, Scott Dixon also moved into sole possession of second place, with his fifth pole position in the Indianapolis 500. Last year, he moved into a four-way tie for second with Rex Mays, AJ Foyt and Helio Castroneves. Today he moved all of those legendary drivers into third place. he now trails only Rick Mears, who owns the record with six poles. (Photo: George Phillips, Oilpressure.com)
Susan did not get her post finished for today, but will have it sometime this week. We are trying to get on the road to Nashville early, so that is going to do it for us. for tonight. But I will have my usual Random Thoughts post on Monday. Thanks to everyone who followed along this weekend. We will be back up here Thursday night, in order to attend Carb Day on Friday. I will still continue with posting every day in May all of this week.
So congratulations to Scott Dixon for making history today. It was an honor to be present for it.
George Phillips
Oilpressure 
May 22, 2022 at 6:39 pm
Pleased to see Dixon on the pole! It’s nice to see an old veteran beating the up and coming youngsters (said by an old man).
May 22, 2022 at 6:45 pm
Always a joy following you on here. Have a safe trip home!!!
May 22, 2022 at 7:54 pm
I agree George. The format is great for the fans but I don’t like it for the drivers or teams. Going to fast nine was bad enough but this has gone to far IMO. Guess I’ve crossed over into to old fart territory…bring back three try’s and your done, bring back the balloons and I told a kid to get off my lawn today.
May 23, 2022 at 11:34 am
I’m glad I was there to witness this in person. It is no coincidence that Scott Dixon is now a 5 time Indy 500 pole winner!
May 23, 2022 at 3:27 pm
I agree with all of you… Scott Dixon’s quali run was amazing! Absolutely breathtaking. Thanks George for your coverage. I look forward to you and Susan’s posts next weekend.