News out of the Indy Racing League is that veteran open wheel driver Paul Tracy will replace Vitor Meira for the Milwaukee race on May 31st, and possibly the rest of the season. The news should come as no surprise as Meira was injured in a crash in turn one of last week’s Indy 500. Paul Tracy finished 9th in his one-race deal for KV Racing in the blue and red Geico-sponsored car at Indy. Tracy has made it no secret he still has the competitive bug to return to racing, in particular open wheel where he has had the most success. A CART/Champ Car force prior to the merger, Tracy has raced just two races since open wheel reunited in February of 2008. In those two races he has made the most of what he had. In the 2008 season, his one race deal with Vision Racing landed him a fourth place finish in Edmonton. In 2009 he was confirmed with KV Racing for the Indy 500 and rewarded them with ninth place finish. The uncertainty surrounding Tracy is that prior to the Indy 500, it was announced that he would race in Edmonton and Toronto for KV Racing. It’s unclear on how the Foyt/Tracy relationship will exist for those two races.
Prior to 2008, Tracy was the 2003 Champ Car Champion and voted the most popular driver in the same year. In 2002 he finished runner-up to Helio Castroneves in the Indy 500, while sparking the controversy that he passed Castroneves before the yellow came out. To this day, Tracy still claims he won the race. Tracy has a wealth of experience in open wheel racing, as his career began in the early 1990’s. He has raced for or been involved with the following race teams: Dale Coyle Racing, Team Penske, Newman/Haas, Team Green, Forsythe Racing, Vision Racing, and most recently KV Racing. More news to come as it develops.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Sunday, May 24, 2009
Race Preview - 3rd Part
The 93rd Running of the Indianapolis 500 – Positions 11 through 1
Race Preview Edition 3rd in a series
Sunday afternoon at 1 P.M. Eastern, the most famous words in racing will be heard over the P.A at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, “Ladies and gentlemen, start your engines.” From there the 93rd running of the greatest spectacle in racing will begin in Speedway, Indiana. IndyCar Garage breaks down the field 11th through pole position, with highlights from this May and predictions of a winner’s circle trip.
Row 1 – Position 1 – Helio Castroneves
What is not to like about Helio going into this year’s race? Past Champion? Check. Pole Position? Check. Fan favorite? Check. He has a great team, a great owner, and for the first time since 2002, a special feel for this race track. He very easily could be sitting in a federal prison right now, but he isn’t. He is racing on the greatest race course in the world and loves every second of it. Don’t be surprised if Helio wins his third Indy 500 come Sunday.
Row 1 – Position 2 – Ryan Briscoe
Not to take anything away from what Briscoe has accomplished during his time with Penske this season, but he has been largely over shadowed by Helio’s tax evasion trial. He sat on the pole for most of pole day and has proven to be a complete driver early in the season. He finished 5th two years ago driving for Jay Penske. He should be around at the end, and it would be no shocker to see him take Penske to winner’s circle.
Row 1 – Position 3 – Dario Franchitti
No surprise to see a Ganassi car up in the front, but a rather interesting story with Franchitti. A one year hiatus from the 500 hasn’t affected the open wheel veteran. He currently sits third in points and an Indy 500 victory would boost his chances of returning to his 2007 form of 500 and series champion. A top five finish is highly likely. Look for his wife to be wearing her customary race dress and hat, too.
Row 2 – Position 4 – Graham Rahal
It’s great to see a Rahal in Indy again. Last year’s performance (started 13th, finished 33rd) is long gone and Rahal has proven himself with a solid month of May. His 02 McDonalds machine nearly saw death on day two of qualifications as he barely avoided John Andretti’s wreck. His chances of a good showing are as good as ever with a strong team in Newman/Haas. Rahal’s in-experience to run a complete 500 miles could hurt him mid-race. A top 10 would be a great way to cap off a very satisfying month.
Row 2 – Position 5 – Scott Dixon
The defending 500 champion started the season slow but picked it back up with a win at Kansas and is a solid fourth in points. Like his teammate, Franchitti, Dixon has had a fine month. A great month is what Team Penske has done with 1st and 2nd spots locked up. Dixon is by far one of the most recognizable drivers in the series and another win for him at Indy would put him in the elite category as a two time winner. The car and team is there, it’s all about how the race plays out for the 9 car.
Row 2 – Position 6 – Tony Kanaan
Tony Kanaan has done everything at Indy except win. He hasn’t run at Indy without leading at least one lap. He sat on the pole in 2005 and dominated the race in 2007 before a questionable pit stop. Last year his teammate ran him into the marbles coming out of turn three. His car appeared to be strong enough to win last year. This year has been a bit different. Even though he is starting 6th, he had to qualify a backup car to make the field. All Kanaan needs to now is WIN. It’s all or nothing for the AGR Star.
Row 3 – Position 7 – Mario Moraes
Moraes, a very young driver (only 20), finished 18th for Dale Coyle Racing in the 2008 Indy 500. He has had a good month for KV Racing, represented by his starting position inside the 3rd row. His future is very bright, but his inexperience will be a factor as this is only his second 500 mile race. His career best finish of 7th at Watkins Glen last year represents one of his three top 10 finishes in his short career. Anything in the top 15 would be a success for this young Brazilian.
Row 3 – Position 8 – Marco Andretti
Marco is one of the up and coming drivers in the series. His near miss by .0635 in 2006 shows he has the talent and skill to drive at Indy. He had another strong showing last year finishing 3rd. This May he has been consistent on and off the track. Can he break the curse of the Andretti name at Indy? Only time will tell. Anything outside of a top five finish for him is a disappointment.
Row 3 – Position 9 – Will Power
Will Power had a respectable showing last year at Indy finishing 13th. 2009 started off with a bang as he replaced Helio for the first two races of the season. He finished 2nd at Long Beach after starting on the Pole. He was leading the series in points after two races but didn’t run at Kansas. The Indy 500 is Powers’ chance to show everyone in open wheel racing he belongs in the series full time. He has the resources of Penske which is enough to warrant him as a serious contender. The Verizon car is a nice looking car. And, if it crosses the yard of bricks first, we might see it the rest of the season.
Row 4 – Position 10 – Danica Patrick
Danica broke through last year with a win at Motegi and has been improving ever since. Her showing in Sports Illustrated this year wasn’t bad either. Her career seems to be on the right path with a good start to 2009. She is currently 6th in points with two top five finishes in three races. This May has been eventful, but not in the same way as 2005 when she busted onto the scene with a 4th place start and finish. She was 15 miles away from victory in 2005. If she wins this year it would be historic and, a win is well within reach.
Row 4 – Position 11 – Alex Lloyd
Lloyd is one of the most interesting stories of May because of his car’s color scheme. His all pink #99 machine sponsored by HER energy drink is highly visible from anywhere. The 2007 Indy Pro Series champion has not competed in a race since the 2008 500 in which he finished 25th. His late heroics this May, earning him the 11th starting spot, were nice and should give him momentum into race day. Don’t forget his car is being run by Chip Ganassi and that warrants consideration for a top five finish and a long shot for winner’s circle. He is another driver that is only signed for the 500 and would be interested in running more races in 2009.
Race Preview Edition 3rd in a series
Sunday afternoon at 1 P.M. Eastern, the most famous words in racing will be heard over the P.A at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, “Ladies and gentlemen, start your engines.” From there the 93rd running of the greatest spectacle in racing will begin in Speedway, Indiana. IndyCar Garage breaks down the field 11th through pole position, with highlights from this May and predictions of a winner’s circle trip.
Row 1 – Position 1 – Helio Castroneves
What is not to like about Helio going into this year’s race? Past Champion? Check. Pole Position? Check. Fan favorite? Check. He has a great team, a great owner, and for the first time since 2002, a special feel for this race track. He very easily could be sitting in a federal prison right now, but he isn’t. He is racing on the greatest race course in the world and loves every second of it. Don’t be surprised if Helio wins his third Indy 500 come Sunday.
Row 1 – Position 2 – Ryan Briscoe
Not to take anything away from what Briscoe has accomplished during his time with Penske this season, but he has been largely over shadowed by Helio’s tax evasion trial. He sat on the pole for most of pole day and has proven to be a complete driver early in the season. He finished 5th two years ago driving for Jay Penske. He should be around at the end, and it would be no shocker to see him take Penske to winner’s circle.
Row 1 – Position 3 – Dario Franchitti
No surprise to see a Ganassi car up in the front, but a rather interesting story with Franchitti. A one year hiatus from the 500 hasn’t affected the open wheel veteran. He currently sits third in points and an Indy 500 victory would boost his chances of returning to his 2007 form of 500 and series champion. A top five finish is highly likely. Look for his wife to be wearing her customary race dress and hat, too.
Row 2 – Position 4 – Graham Rahal
It’s great to see a Rahal in Indy again. Last year’s performance (started 13th, finished 33rd) is long gone and Rahal has proven himself with a solid month of May. His 02 McDonalds machine nearly saw death on day two of qualifications as he barely avoided John Andretti’s wreck. His chances of a good showing are as good as ever with a strong team in Newman/Haas. Rahal’s in-experience to run a complete 500 miles could hurt him mid-race. A top 10 would be a great way to cap off a very satisfying month.
Row 2 – Position 5 – Scott Dixon
The defending 500 champion started the season slow but picked it back up with a win at Kansas and is a solid fourth in points. Like his teammate, Franchitti, Dixon has had a fine month. A great month is what Team Penske has done with 1st and 2nd spots locked up. Dixon is by far one of the most recognizable drivers in the series and another win for him at Indy would put him in the elite category as a two time winner. The car and team is there, it’s all about how the race plays out for the 9 car.
Row 2 – Position 6 – Tony Kanaan
Tony Kanaan has done everything at Indy except win. He hasn’t run at Indy without leading at least one lap. He sat on the pole in 2005 and dominated the race in 2007 before a questionable pit stop. Last year his teammate ran him into the marbles coming out of turn three. His car appeared to be strong enough to win last year. This year has been a bit different. Even though he is starting 6th, he had to qualify a backup car to make the field. All Kanaan needs to now is WIN. It’s all or nothing for the AGR Star.
Row 3 – Position 7 – Mario Moraes
Moraes, a very young driver (only 20), finished 18th for Dale Coyle Racing in the 2008 Indy 500. He has had a good month for KV Racing, represented by his starting position inside the 3rd row. His future is very bright, but his inexperience will be a factor as this is only his second 500 mile race. His career best finish of 7th at Watkins Glen last year represents one of his three top 10 finishes in his short career. Anything in the top 15 would be a success for this young Brazilian.
Row 3 – Position 8 – Marco Andretti
Marco is one of the up and coming drivers in the series. His near miss by .0635 in 2006 shows he has the talent and skill to drive at Indy. He had another strong showing last year finishing 3rd. This May he has been consistent on and off the track. Can he break the curse of the Andretti name at Indy? Only time will tell. Anything outside of a top five finish for him is a disappointment.
Row 3 – Position 9 – Will Power
Will Power had a respectable showing last year at Indy finishing 13th. 2009 started off with a bang as he replaced Helio for the first two races of the season. He finished 2nd at Long Beach after starting on the Pole. He was leading the series in points after two races but didn’t run at Kansas. The Indy 500 is Powers’ chance to show everyone in open wheel racing he belongs in the series full time. He has the resources of Penske which is enough to warrant him as a serious contender. The Verizon car is a nice looking car. And, if it crosses the yard of bricks first, we might see it the rest of the season.
Row 4 – Position 10 – Danica Patrick
Danica broke through last year with a win at Motegi and has been improving ever since. Her showing in Sports Illustrated this year wasn’t bad either. Her career seems to be on the right path with a good start to 2009. She is currently 6th in points with two top five finishes in three races. This May has been eventful, but not in the same way as 2005 when she busted onto the scene with a 4th place start and finish. She was 15 miles away from victory in 2005. If she wins this year it would be historic and, a win is well within reach.
Row 4 – Position 11 – Alex Lloyd
Lloyd is one of the most interesting stories of May because of his car’s color scheme. His all pink #99 machine sponsored by HER energy drink is highly visible from anywhere. The 2007 Indy Pro Series champion has not competed in a race since the 2008 500 in which he finished 25th. His late heroics this May, earning him the 11th starting spot, were nice and should give him momentum into race day. Don’t forget his car is being run by Chip Ganassi and that warrants consideration for a top five finish and a long shot for winner’s circle. He is another driver that is only signed for the 500 and would be interested in running more races in 2009.
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Race Preview - 2nd part
The 93rd Running of the Indianapolis 500 – Positions 22 through 12
Race Preview Edition 2nd in a series
Sunday afternoon at 1 P.M. Eastern, the most famous words in racing will be heard over the P.A at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, “Ladies and gentlemen, start your engines.” From there the 93rd running of the greatest spectacle in racing will begin in Speedway, Indiana. IndyCar Garage breaks down the field starting with the middle 11, with highlights from this May and predictions of a winner’s circle trip.
Row 4 – Position 12 – Raphael Matos
Matos is a leading candidate for rookie of the year at Indy and in the 2009 season. He stole the show on day two of qualifications with an average speed that would have put him in the top 11 a day earlier. The 2008 Indy Lights series champion is running for a up and coming team in Luczo-Dragon Racing. A full 500 miles for this rookie and top 15 finish would top off a respectable May for Matos. A trip to victory circle for Matos is a long shot, but if the car holds up, anything can happen.
Row 5 – Position 13 – Paul Tracy
Tracy returns to Indy for the first time since 2002 when he was just short of a victory with a 2nd place finish. Tracy thinks he won the 2002 race because he passed Helio before the caution. Tony George and company thought otherwise. This year Tracy comes into town with motivation to win and secure a ride for the rest of the season. After being the dominate force of CART and Champ Car for several years, his career has struggled since the merger. He finished 4th at Edmonton last year and still couldn’t find a ride. He finally found a ride for Indy this year with a limited program sponsored through Geico. He will start 13th and is a sleeper pick to win. If he doesn’t get caught in a wreck and the car holds up, Tracy will be a threat at the end.
Row 5 – Position 14 – Vitor Meira
Vitor is a very talented driver when it comes to the Indy 500, represented by two runner up finishes in 2005 and 2008. He is running for a new team this year with A.J. Foyt Racing. He currently sits 15th in points after three races, so Indy could be the race to get him back on track. If Vitor has a car that will give him 500 miles, then look for him to be around at the end barring any crashes he gets caught in. This month has given us no reason to believe he can’t compete for a trip to the winners circle.
Row 5 – Position 15 – Justin Wilson
Justin was one of the transition drivers from Champ Car after the merger, and he made an impact in his first IndyCar season by capturing a victory at Detroit. His first Indy 500 in 2008 was marred by a accident that left him finishing 27th. He is currently driving for Dale Coyle Racing and rewarded them with a 3rd place finish in the 2009 season opener at St. Pete. His speed throughout the month has been consistent and his sponsor, McDonalds makes the car very visible. His in-experience at Indy makes him a liability to drive in traffic and could make him a early race causality. A full 500 miles and a top 10 finish would be a step in the right direction for this talented British driver.
Row 6 – Position 16 – Hideki Mutoh
Mutoh has been a force in the IndyCar series since signing on to drive full time for AGR in 2008. The 2008 series Rookie of the year finished 7th last year at Indy. Like his other AGR teammates, he hasn’t found the speed of Penske or Ganassi this month. He still remains a threat because of the power of AGR. The Japanese driver has proven he can drive, now can he make the break through for more wins and a place in winners circle? A top ten is expected for a AGR driver.
Row 6 – Position 17 – Ed Carpenter
Ed Carpenter grew up a half mile from the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and lived across the street from Speedway High School. He is the step-son of Tony George and has raced midgets as early as age eight. His open wheel career has been less than spectacular. He currently is in his sixth season with a full-time ride and has not finished higher than 14th in the point standings. He still has yet to register a podium finish. He did finish a career best 5th at Indy last year and his team seems to be making improvements. Vision racing has struggled since its inception to be competitive at every race. His speed throughout the month has been average. He needs another strong showing to prove he can compete at every race. Anything finish in the top 15 should be considered a positive for Carpenter and his team.
Row 6 – Position 18 – Dan Wheldon
Wheldon started 16th in 2005 and turned out his 1st 500 victory. If he wants a repeat trip to victory circle he will have to do so from the 18th position. A pole day crash dampened what would have been a secure spot in the top 11. With his return to Panther Racing this season in the National Guard, Wheldon needs a strong showing to restore himself as a threat to win every race. A top 5 would go a long way with his Panther team.
Row 7 – Position 19 – A.J. Foyt IV
Nothing would add more history to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway than a Foyt putting another Foyt in victory lane during the Centennial Era. The reality is that A.J. Foyt IV isn’t the driver his grandfather was. In other good news for Foyt IV is that he just got engaged to Casey Irasy (her dad owns the Colts). The chances of Foyt IV in victory circle are slim, but a top 10 would do wonders to jump start his career. As of now, he doesn’t have a ride for the rest of the year. A top 5 finish might change that.
Row 7 – Position 20 – Scott Sharp
Scott has 146 career Indy Racing League starts, the most ever in league history. Scott sat on the pole here in 2001, but finished 33rd. This month he has suffered some set backs with a crash prior to qualifications. He was able to save himself and his team a major headache by pulling off last minute heroics on day two of qualifications. He is a veteran driver who is very familiar with Indy. He has five career top ten finishes in the 500 mile race. A few breaks throughout the race and a top five is well within reach for the Patron car.
Row 7 – Position 21 – Sarah Fisher
Sarah Fisher is also a very unique story from the month of May. She has seen the highs of IndyCar by setting numerous female records in 2001 and 2002. She also has seen the lows of racing by drifting into minor league NASCAR in 2004 and 2005. She finally has a sponsor (Dollar General) for her race team Sarah Fisher Racing and seems poised to recapture the magic that made her one of the most popular drivers in the IndyCar series for three straight years. Her speed hasn’t been great this May, but was good enough for a day two effort that put her in 21st. She has a partial schedule for the rest of the season with a goal of a full schedule run in 2010. She needs to finish the race this year and establish her team as contenders. Anything above 18th would be a personal best for her at Indy.
Row 8 – Position 22 – Davey Hamilton
6th in 1997, 4th in 1998, 11th in 1999, 9th in 2007, 14th in 2008. Notice a trend hear? Davey Hamilton knows how to run Indy and has the experience to finish near the top. Hamilton suffered a horrible accident in 2001 at Texas and returned to racing in Indy in 2007 with Vision Racing. He is not a full-time entry and has only run two races since coming back from retirement, which have both been at Indy. He’s a long shot to win the race and his Dryer & Reinbold Racing w/Kingdom Racing team has struggled throughout the month with it’s other entries(see John Andretti’s pit on bump day). This means Hamilton has had little time to do much race-time preparation. His experience is what warrants him consideration for the winners circle, but not much else. A top 20 is about all you can hope for.
Race Preview Edition 2nd in a series
Sunday afternoon at 1 P.M. Eastern, the most famous words in racing will be heard over the P.A at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, “Ladies and gentlemen, start your engines.” From there the 93rd running of the greatest spectacle in racing will begin in Speedway, Indiana. IndyCar Garage breaks down the field starting with the middle 11, with highlights from this May and predictions of a winner’s circle trip.
Row 4 – Position 12 – Raphael Matos
Matos is a leading candidate for rookie of the year at Indy and in the 2009 season. He stole the show on day two of qualifications with an average speed that would have put him in the top 11 a day earlier. The 2008 Indy Lights series champion is running for a up and coming team in Luczo-Dragon Racing. A full 500 miles for this rookie and top 15 finish would top off a respectable May for Matos. A trip to victory circle for Matos is a long shot, but if the car holds up, anything can happen.
Row 5 – Position 13 – Paul Tracy
Tracy returns to Indy for the first time since 2002 when he was just short of a victory with a 2nd place finish. Tracy thinks he won the 2002 race because he passed Helio before the caution. Tony George and company thought otherwise. This year Tracy comes into town with motivation to win and secure a ride for the rest of the season. After being the dominate force of CART and Champ Car for several years, his career has struggled since the merger. He finished 4th at Edmonton last year and still couldn’t find a ride. He finally found a ride for Indy this year with a limited program sponsored through Geico. He will start 13th and is a sleeper pick to win. If he doesn’t get caught in a wreck and the car holds up, Tracy will be a threat at the end.
Row 5 – Position 14 – Vitor Meira
Vitor is a very talented driver when it comes to the Indy 500, represented by two runner up finishes in 2005 and 2008. He is running for a new team this year with A.J. Foyt Racing. He currently sits 15th in points after three races, so Indy could be the race to get him back on track. If Vitor has a car that will give him 500 miles, then look for him to be around at the end barring any crashes he gets caught in. This month has given us no reason to believe he can’t compete for a trip to the winners circle.
Row 5 – Position 15 – Justin Wilson
Justin was one of the transition drivers from Champ Car after the merger, and he made an impact in his first IndyCar season by capturing a victory at Detroit. His first Indy 500 in 2008 was marred by a accident that left him finishing 27th. He is currently driving for Dale Coyle Racing and rewarded them with a 3rd place finish in the 2009 season opener at St. Pete. His speed throughout the month has been consistent and his sponsor, McDonalds makes the car very visible. His in-experience at Indy makes him a liability to drive in traffic and could make him a early race causality. A full 500 miles and a top 10 finish would be a step in the right direction for this talented British driver.
Row 6 – Position 16 – Hideki Mutoh
Mutoh has been a force in the IndyCar series since signing on to drive full time for AGR in 2008. The 2008 series Rookie of the year finished 7th last year at Indy. Like his other AGR teammates, he hasn’t found the speed of Penske or Ganassi this month. He still remains a threat because of the power of AGR. The Japanese driver has proven he can drive, now can he make the break through for more wins and a place in winners circle? A top ten is expected for a AGR driver.
Row 6 – Position 17 – Ed Carpenter
Ed Carpenter grew up a half mile from the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and lived across the street from Speedway High School. He is the step-son of Tony George and has raced midgets as early as age eight. His open wheel career has been less than spectacular. He currently is in his sixth season with a full-time ride and has not finished higher than 14th in the point standings. He still has yet to register a podium finish. He did finish a career best 5th at Indy last year and his team seems to be making improvements. Vision racing has struggled since its inception to be competitive at every race. His speed throughout the month has been average. He needs another strong showing to prove he can compete at every race. Anything finish in the top 15 should be considered a positive for Carpenter and his team.
Row 6 – Position 18 – Dan Wheldon
Wheldon started 16th in 2005 and turned out his 1st 500 victory. If he wants a repeat trip to victory circle he will have to do so from the 18th position. A pole day crash dampened what would have been a secure spot in the top 11. With his return to Panther Racing this season in the National Guard, Wheldon needs a strong showing to restore himself as a threat to win every race. A top 5 would go a long way with his Panther team.
Row 7 – Position 19 – A.J. Foyt IV
Nothing would add more history to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway than a Foyt putting another Foyt in victory lane during the Centennial Era. The reality is that A.J. Foyt IV isn’t the driver his grandfather was. In other good news for Foyt IV is that he just got engaged to Casey Irasy (her dad owns the Colts). The chances of Foyt IV in victory circle are slim, but a top 10 would do wonders to jump start his career. As of now, he doesn’t have a ride for the rest of the year. A top 5 finish might change that.
Row 7 – Position 20 – Scott Sharp
Scott has 146 career Indy Racing League starts, the most ever in league history. Scott sat on the pole here in 2001, but finished 33rd. This month he has suffered some set backs with a crash prior to qualifications. He was able to save himself and his team a major headache by pulling off last minute heroics on day two of qualifications. He is a veteran driver who is very familiar with Indy. He has five career top ten finishes in the 500 mile race. A few breaks throughout the race and a top five is well within reach for the Patron car.
Row 7 – Position 21 – Sarah Fisher
Sarah Fisher is also a very unique story from the month of May. She has seen the highs of IndyCar by setting numerous female records in 2001 and 2002. She also has seen the lows of racing by drifting into minor league NASCAR in 2004 and 2005. She finally has a sponsor (Dollar General) for her race team Sarah Fisher Racing and seems poised to recapture the magic that made her one of the most popular drivers in the IndyCar series for three straight years. Her speed hasn’t been great this May, but was good enough for a day two effort that put her in 21st. She has a partial schedule for the rest of the season with a goal of a full schedule run in 2010. She needs to finish the race this year and establish her team as contenders. Anything above 18th would be a personal best for her at Indy.
Row 8 – Position 22 – Davey Hamilton
6th in 1997, 4th in 1998, 11th in 1999, 9th in 2007, 14th in 2008. Notice a trend hear? Davey Hamilton knows how to run Indy and has the experience to finish near the top. Hamilton suffered a horrible accident in 2001 at Texas and returned to racing in Indy in 2007 with Vision Racing. He is not a full-time entry and has only run two races since coming back from retirement, which have both been at Indy. He’s a long shot to win the race and his Dryer & Reinbold Racing w/Kingdom Racing team has struggled throughout the month with it’s other entries(see John Andretti’s pit on bump day). This means Hamilton has had little time to do much race-time preparation. His experience is what warrants him consideration for the winners circle, but not much else. A top 20 is about all you can hope for.
The 93rd Running of the Indianapolis 500 – Positions 22 through 11
Race Preview Edition 2nd in a series
Sunday afternoon at 1 P.M. Eastern, the most famous words in racing will be heard over the P.A at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, “Ladies and gentlemen, start your engines.” From there the 93rd running of the greatest spectacle in racing will begin in Speedway, Indiana. IndyCar Garage breaks down the field starting with the middle 11, with highlights from this May and predictions of a winner’s circle trip.
Row 4 – Position 12 – Raphael Matos
Matos is a leading candidate for rookie of the year at Indy and in the 2009 season. He stole the show on day two of qualifications with an average speed that would have put him in the top 11 a day earlier. The 2008 Indy Lights series champion is running for a up and coming team in Luczo-Dragon Racing. A full 500 miles for this rookie and top 15 finish would top off a respectable May for Matos. A trip to victory circle for Matos is a long shot, but if the car holds up, anything can happen.
Row 5 – Position 13 – Paul Tracy
Tracy returns to Indy for the first time since 2002 when he was just short of a victory with a 2nd place finish. Tracy thinks he won the 2002 race because he passed Helio before the caution. Tony George and company thought otherwise. This year Tracy comes into town with motivation to win and secure a ride for the rest of the season. After being the dominate force of CART and Champ Car for several years, his career has struggled since the merger. He finished 4th at Edmonton last year and still couldn’t find a ride. He finally found a ride for Indy this year with a limited program sponsored through Geico. He will start 13th and is a sleeper pick to win. If he doesn’t get caught in a wreck and the car holds up, Tracy will be a threat at the end.
Row 5 – Position 14 – Vitor Meira
Vitor is a very talented driver when it comes to the Indy 500, represented by two runner up finishes in 2005 and 2008. He is running for a new team this year with A.J. Foyt Racing. He currently sits 15th in points after three races, so Indy could be the race to get him back on track. If Vitor has a car that will give him 500 miles, then look for him to be around at the end barring any crashes he gets caught in. This month has given us no reason to believe he can’t compete for a trip to the winners circle.
Row 5 – Position 15 – Justin Wilson
Justin was one of the transition drivers from Champ Car after the merger, and he made an impact in his first IndyCar season by capturing a victory at Detroit. His first Indy 500 in 2008 was marred by a accident that left him finishing 27th. He is currently driving for Dale Coyle Racing and rewarded them with a 3rd place finish in the 2009 season opener at St. Pete. His speed throughout the month has been consistent and his sponsor, McDonalds makes the car very visible. His in-experience at Indy makes him a liability to drive in traffic and could make him a early race causality. A full 500 miles and a top 10 finish would be a step in the right direction for this talented British driver.
Row 6 – Position 16 – Hideki Mutoh
Mutoh has been a force in the IndyCar series since signing on to drive full time for AGR in 2008. The 2008 series Rookie of the year finished 7th last year at Indy. Like his other AGR teammates, he hasn’t found the speed of Penske or Ganassi this month. He still remains a threat because of the power of AGR. The Japanese driver has proven he can drive, now can he make the break through for more wins and a place in winners circle? A top ten is expected for a AGR driver.
Row 6 – Position 17 – Ed Carpenter
Ed Carpenter grew up a half mile from the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and lived across the street from Speedway High School. He is the step-son of Tony George and has raced midgets as early as age eight. His open wheel career has been less than spectacular. He currently is in his sixth season with a full-time ride and has not finished higher than 14th in the point standings. He still has yet to register a podium finish. He did finish a career best 5th at Indy last year and his team seems to be making improvements. Vision racing has struggled since its inception to be competitive at every race. His speed throughout the month has been average. He needs another strong showing to prove he can compete at every race. Anything finish in the top 15 should be considered a positive for Carpenter and his team.
Row 6 – Position 18 – Dan Wheldon
Wheldon started 16th in 2005 and turned out his 1st 500 victory. If he wants a repeat trip to victory circle he will have to do so from the 18th position. A pole day crash dampened what would have been a secure spot in the top 11. With his return to Panther Racing this season in the National Guard, Wheldon needs a strong showing to restore himself as a threat to win every race. A top 5 would go a long way with his Panther team.
Row 7 – Position 19 – A.J. Foyt IV
Nothing would add more history to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway than a Foyt putting another Foyt in victory lane during the Centennial Era. The reality is that A.J. Foyt IV isn’t the driver his grandfather was. In other good news for Foyt IV is that he just got engaged to Casey Irasy (her dad owns the Colts). The chances of Foyt IV in victory circle are slim, but a top 10 would do wonders to jump start his career. As of now, he doesn’t have a ride for the rest of the year. A top 5 finish might change that.
Row 7 – Position 20 – Scott Sharp
Scott has 146 career Indy Racing League starts, the most ever in league history. Scott sat on the pole here in 2001, but finished 33rd. This month he has suffered some set backs with a crash prior to qualifications. He was able to save himself and his team a major headache by pulling off last minute heroics on day two of qualifications. He is a veteran driver who is very familiar with Indy. He has five career top ten finishes in the 500 mile race. A few breaks throughout the race and a top five is well within reach for the Patron car.
Row 7 – Position 21 – Sarah Fisher
Sarah Fisher is also a very unique story from the month of May. She has seen the highs of IndyCar by setting numerous female records in 2001 and 2002. She also has seen the lows of racing by drifting into minor league NASCAR in 2004 and 2005. She finally has a sponsor (Dollar General) for her race team Sarah Fisher Racing and seems poised to recapture the magic that made her one of the most popular drivers in the IndyCar series for three straight years. Her speed hasn’t been great this May, but was good enough for a day two effort that put her in 21st. She has a partial schedule for the rest of the season with a goal of a full schedule run in 2010. She needs to finish the race this year and establish her team as contenders. Anything above 18th would be a personal best for her at Indy.
Row 8 – Position 22 – Davey Hamilton
6th in 1997, 4th in 1998, 11th in 1999, 9th in 2007, 14th in 2008. Notice a trend hear? Davey Hamilton knows how to run Indy and has the experience to finish near the top. Hamilton suffered a horrible accident in 2001 at Texas and returned to racing in Indy in 2007 with Vision Racing. He is not a full-time entry and has only run two races since coming back from retirement, which have both been at Indy. He’s a long shot to win the race and his Dryer & Reinbold Racing w/Kingdom Racing team has struggled throughout the month with it’s other entries(see John Andretti’s pit on bump day). This means Hamilton has had little time to do much race-time preparation. His experience is what warrants him consideration for the winners circle, but not much else. A top 20 is about all you can hope for.
Race Preview Edition 2nd in a series
Sunday afternoon at 1 P.M. Eastern, the most famous words in racing will be heard over the P.A at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, “Ladies and gentlemen, start your engines.” From there the 93rd running of the greatest spectacle in racing will begin in Speedway, Indiana. IndyCar Garage breaks down the field starting with the middle 11, with highlights from this May and predictions of a winner’s circle trip.
Row 4 – Position 12 – Raphael Matos
Matos is a leading candidate for rookie of the year at Indy and in the 2009 season. He stole the show on day two of qualifications with an average speed that would have put him in the top 11 a day earlier. The 2008 Indy Lights series champion is running for a up and coming team in Luczo-Dragon Racing. A full 500 miles for this rookie and top 15 finish would top off a respectable May for Matos. A trip to victory circle for Matos is a long shot, but if the car holds up, anything can happen.
Row 5 – Position 13 – Paul Tracy
Tracy returns to Indy for the first time since 2002 when he was just short of a victory with a 2nd place finish. Tracy thinks he won the 2002 race because he passed Helio before the caution. Tony George and company thought otherwise. This year Tracy comes into town with motivation to win and secure a ride for the rest of the season. After being the dominate force of CART and Champ Car for several years, his career has struggled since the merger. He finished 4th at Edmonton last year and still couldn’t find a ride. He finally found a ride for Indy this year with a limited program sponsored through Geico. He will start 13th and is a sleeper pick to win. If he doesn’t get caught in a wreck and the car holds up, Tracy will be a threat at the end.
Row 5 – Position 14 – Vitor Meira
Vitor is a very talented driver when it comes to the Indy 500, represented by two runner up finishes in 2005 and 2008. He is running for a new team this year with A.J. Foyt Racing. He currently sits 15th in points after three races, so Indy could be the race to get him back on track. If Vitor has a car that will give him 500 miles, then look for him to be around at the end barring any crashes he gets caught in. This month has given us no reason to believe he can’t compete for a trip to the winners circle.
Row 5 – Position 15 – Justin Wilson
Justin was one of the transition drivers from Champ Car after the merger, and he made an impact in his first IndyCar season by capturing a victory at Detroit. His first Indy 500 in 2008 was marred by a accident that left him finishing 27th. He is currently driving for Dale Coyle Racing and rewarded them with a 3rd place finish in the 2009 season opener at St. Pete. His speed throughout the month has been consistent and his sponsor, McDonalds makes the car very visible. His in-experience at Indy makes him a liability to drive in traffic and could make him a early race causality. A full 500 miles and a top 10 finish would be a step in the right direction for this talented British driver.
Row 6 – Position 16 – Hideki Mutoh
Mutoh has been a force in the IndyCar series since signing on to drive full time for AGR in 2008. The 2008 series Rookie of the year finished 7th last year at Indy. Like his other AGR teammates, he hasn’t found the speed of Penske or Ganassi this month. He still remains a threat because of the power of AGR. The Japanese driver has proven he can drive, now can he make the break through for more wins and a place in winners circle? A top ten is expected for a AGR driver.
Row 6 – Position 17 – Ed Carpenter
Ed Carpenter grew up a half mile from the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and lived across the street from Speedway High School. He is the step-son of Tony George and has raced midgets as early as age eight. His open wheel career has been less than spectacular. He currently is in his sixth season with a full-time ride and has not finished higher than 14th in the point standings. He still has yet to register a podium finish. He did finish a career best 5th at Indy last year and his team seems to be making improvements. Vision racing has struggled since its inception to be competitive at every race. His speed throughout the month has been average. He needs another strong showing to prove he can compete at every race. Anything finish in the top 15 should be considered a positive for Carpenter and his team.
Row 6 – Position 18 – Dan Wheldon
Wheldon started 16th in 2005 and turned out his 1st 500 victory. If he wants a repeat trip to victory circle he will have to do so from the 18th position. A pole day crash dampened what would have been a secure spot in the top 11. With his return to Panther Racing this season in the National Guard, Wheldon needs a strong showing to restore himself as a threat to win every race. A top 5 would go a long way with his Panther team.
Row 7 – Position 19 – A.J. Foyt IV
Nothing would add more history to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway than a Foyt putting another Foyt in victory lane during the Centennial Era. The reality is that A.J. Foyt IV isn’t the driver his grandfather was. In other good news for Foyt IV is that he just got engaged to Casey Irasy (her dad owns the Colts). The chances of Foyt IV in victory circle are slim, but a top 10 would do wonders to jump start his career. As of now, he doesn’t have a ride for the rest of the year. A top 5 finish might change that.
Row 7 – Position 20 – Scott Sharp
Scott has 146 career Indy Racing League starts, the most ever in league history. Scott sat on the pole here in 2001, but finished 33rd. This month he has suffered some set backs with a crash prior to qualifications. He was able to save himself and his team a major headache by pulling off last minute heroics on day two of qualifications. He is a veteran driver who is very familiar with Indy. He has five career top ten finishes in the 500 mile race. A few breaks throughout the race and a top five is well within reach for the Patron car.
Row 7 – Position 21 – Sarah Fisher
Sarah Fisher is also a very unique story from the month of May. She has seen the highs of IndyCar by setting numerous female records in 2001 and 2002. She also has seen the lows of racing by drifting into minor league NASCAR in 2004 and 2005. She finally has a sponsor (Dollar General) for her race team Sarah Fisher Racing and seems poised to recapture the magic that made her one of the most popular drivers in the IndyCar series for three straight years. Her speed hasn’t been great this May, but was good enough for a day two effort that put her in 21st. She has a partial schedule for the rest of the season with a goal of a full schedule run in 2010. She needs to finish the race this year and establish her team as contenders. Anything above 18th would be a personal best for her at Indy.
Row 8 – Position 22 – Davey Hamilton
6th in 1997, 4th in 1998, 11th in 1999, 9th in 2007, 14th in 2008. Notice a trend hear? Davey Hamilton knows how to run Indy and has the experience to finish near the top. Hamilton suffered a horrible accident in 2001 at Texas and returned to racing in Indy in 2007 with Vision Racing. He is not a full-time entry and has only run two races since coming back from retirement, which have both been at Indy. He’s a long shot to win the race and his Dryer & Reinbold Racing w/Kingdom Racing team has struggled throughout the month with it’s other entries(see John Andretti’s pit on bump day). This means Hamilton has had little time to do much race-time preparation. His experience is what warrants him consideration for the winners circle, but not much else. A top 20 is about all you can hope for.
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Indy 500 Preview - 1st in a series
The 93rd Running of the Indianapolis 500 – Positions 33 through 23
Race Preview Edition 1st in a series
Sunday afternoon at 1 P.M. Eastern, the most famous words in racing will be heard over the P.A at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, “Ladies and gentlemen, start your engines.” From there the 93rd running of the greatest spectacle in racing will begin in Speedway, Indiana. IndyCar Garage breaks down the field starting with the last 11, with highlights from this May and predictions of a winner’s circle trip.
Row 8 – Position 23 – Robert Doornbos
Doornbos is in his first season as a IndyCar series driver. He has a wealth of experience in open wheel racing, but very little on ovals. He is off to a strong start this year with a top 10 at Kansas. He has been helped this month by two time winner and fellow Dutchman Arie Luyendyk. He is driving for a respectable team in Newman/Haas/Lanigan Racing, which also has Graham Rahal starting in the fourth position. His inexperience at Indy will hurt him and will likely contribute to him not being a factor in the race. If this Dutchman can finish in the top 20, it would be a success.
Row 8 – Position 24 – Townsend Bell
Bell came to Indy with a second week deal , this forced him to start from the 24th position. He did find speed quickly, and that is due to his KV Racing team having a good month. Bell is a talented driver, that when give the chance to compete full time, he has had some success. He was the 2001 Indy Lights Champion and has bounced around with different series and teams throughout most of the decade. He needs a strong showing to rebound his career. A top 15 finish is within reach.
Row 9 – Position 25 – Oriol Servia
Servia was a transition driver from Champ Car and had a very good 2008 season for KV Racing. He finished 9th in points with four top five finishes. His 11th place finish last year at Indy was a very respectable showing. Servia has been in-active for the first three races of the 2009 season because no ride had materialized for him. Rahal-Letterman signed Servia for the Indy 500 only and he rewarded them by safely qualifying in the 25th position. If Servia wants to compete in more races this year he needs a top five finish.
Row 9 – Position 26 – Tomas Scheckter
Scheckter found a ride with Dale Coyle Racing in the form of Justin Wilson’s backup car on the second weekend of time trials. He needed no time finding speed, as he easily qualified about the 221 range. Scheckter is an IndyCar veteran and has two career wins since his rookie year in 2002. He has lead several laps at Indy, with career best finish of 4th in 2003. He hasn’t competed in a race this season and has no deals for the rest of the year, but don’t count him out. Scheckter often finds ways to make the most of what is given to him. He is a very talented driver, that if his car can last the full 500 miles and he avoids traffic, he could surprise some people. A top 15 is not out of the question for the native of South Africa.
Row 9 – Position 27 – Mike Conway
Conway is a rookie to the Indy 500 and to the IndyCar series itself. His best finish so far is 19th at Kansas. He found the needed speed on Bump day and secured one of the four Dreyer & Reinbold cars in the field. His in-experience at Indy showed on the second day of qualifications in the practice session. Conway had to be taken to the hospital because of a crash in turn two. He would suffer bruised lungs and a concession. He was cleared prior to the second weekend of qualifications. Conway and his team should benefit from being under the Dreyer & Reinbold umbrella of teams, but there isn’t much else to build on. Completing the full 500 miles would be a positive for what has been a roller-coaster month of May.
Row 10 – Position 28 – John Andretti
What a month Andretti has had in the #43 Richard Petty Motorsports entry. He needed every qualification attempt on bump day to earn a spot in the field. This will be Andretti’s third straight Indy 500 after a 13 year absence. He enters the race with more of an appreciation for being in the field than any other 500 he has competed in. With all of the time used for qualifications, it’s hard to imagine that his team will have much time for a race-setup. The good news is that he is under the Dreyer & Reinbold umbrella of teams and that should allow his crew to share race strategies. Andretti is a good driver and should be considered a threat to finish in the top ten.
Row 10 – Position 29 – E.J. Viso
E.J. had the un-pleasant experience of being bumped from the field on the second day of qualifications. He is a very young at age 24 and is just in his second season of IndyCar racing. He hasn’t had much success on ovals, which doesn’t bold well for his chances at Indy. His in-experience and middle of the road team will keep him from a top 10, but finishing the full 500 miles in the top 20 would be considered an improvement from last year.
Row 10 – Position 30 – Milka Duno
Milka will be making her third consecutive Indy 500 start from the inside of 10. She finished a respectable 19th last year at Indy and was the highest finishing woman in the field, as wrecks collected Danica Patrick and Sarah Fisher. Her Dreyer & Reinbold team gave her a fast car on bump day and she rewarded them with four solid laps at over 221 mph. Her chances of victory at Indy are slim, but she could jumpstart her career by finishing in the top 10. She is slated to race a partial schedule for the remainder of the 2009 season, a strong finish could build some momentum for her team.
Row 11 – Position 31 – Nelson Philippe
This former Champ Car driver is considered a rookie this year at Indy, but has experience as he was the youngest ever (17) to compete in a Champ Car race before the merger. He has struggled to find speed all month, but found it at the right time on bump day. He is not a threat to win to the race nor does he have a ride for after Indy. Finishing the race for his HVM Racing team would be a huge accomplishment for this French Driver.
Row 11 – Position 32 – Ryan Hunter-Reay
Hunter-Reay had a very frustrating month driving for Vison racing. He struggled to find speed throughout the entire month and nearly missed the field by being bumped by John Andretti at 5:57 p.m. on Bump day. Lucky for Hunter-Reay is that got on the track at 5:59 p.m. on Bump day and put himself back into the field by 0.0324 of a second. For being the last qualifier he was award $50,000. Hunter-Reay is currently fifth in the points standings and had success prior to Indy. He needs to overcome the drama of Bump day and salvage a top 15 finish. He finished 6th at Indy a year ago in route to being named rookie of the year.
Row 11 – Position 33 – Alex Tagliani
Tagliani is driving for Conquest racing and was bumped on the very last day of qualifications by Ryan Hunter-Reay. He then replaced Bruno Junqueria in the other Conquest car due to sponsorship obligations. Tagliani will be driving in his first 500 and that means that his in-experience come race day will factor into where he finishes. He has had some success in CART/Champ Car, and that will help later in the season at some of the road courses. Tagliani experienced trouble on bump day, look for the same on race day.
Race Preview Edition 1st in a series
Sunday afternoon at 1 P.M. Eastern, the most famous words in racing will be heard over the P.A at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, “Ladies and gentlemen, start your engines.” From there the 93rd running of the greatest spectacle in racing will begin in Speedway, Indiana. IndyCar Garage breaks down the field starting with the last 11, with highlights from this May and predictions of a winner’s circle trip.
Row 8 – Position 23 – Robert Doornbos
Doornbos is in his first season as a IndyCar series driver. He has a wealth of experience in open wheel racing, but very little on ovals. He is off to a strong start this year with a top 10 at Kansas. He has been helped this month by two time winner and fellow Dutchman Arie Luyendyk. He is driving for a respectable team in Newman/Haas/Lanigan Racing, which also has Graham Rahal starting in the fourth position. His inexperience at Indy will hurt him and will likely contribute to him not being a factor in the race. If this Dutchman can finish in the top 20, it would be a success.
Row 8 – Position 24 – Townsend Bell
Bell came to Indy with a second week deal , this forced him to start from the 24th position. He did find speed quickly, and that is due to his KV Racing team having a good month. Bell is a talented driver, that when give the chance to compete full time, he has had some success. He was the 2001 Indy Lights Champion and has bounced around with different series and teams throughout most of the decade. He needs a strong showing to rebound his career. A top 15 finish is within reach.
Row 9 – Position 25 – Oriol Servia
Servia was a transition driver from Champ Car and had a very good 2008 season for KV Racing. He finished 9th in points with four top five finishes. His 11th place finish last year at Indy was a very respectable showing. Servia has been in-active for the first three races of the 2009 season because no ride had materialized for him. Rahal-Letterman signed Servia for the Indy 500 only and he rewarded them by safely qualifying in the 25th position. If Servia wants to compete in more races this year he needs a top five finish.
Row 9 – Position 26 – Tomas Scheckter
Scheckter found a ride with Dale Coyle Racing in the form of Justin Wilson’s backup car on the second weekend of time trials. He needed no time finding speed, as he easily qualified about the 221 range. Scheckter is an IndyCar veteran and has two career wins since his rookie year in 2002. He has lead several laps at Indy, with career best finish of 4th in 2003. He hasn’t competed in a race this season and has no deals for the rest of the year, but don’t count him out. Scheckter often finds ways to make the most of what is given to him. He is a very talented driver, that if his car can last the full 500 miles and he avoids traffic, he could surprise some people. A top 15 is not out of the question for the native of South Africa.
Row 9 – Position 27 – Mike Conway
Conway is a rookie to the Indy 500 and to the IndyCar series itself. His best finish so far is 19th at Kansas. He found the needed speed on Bump day and secured one of the four Dreyer & Reinbold cars in the field. His in-experience at Indy showed on the second day of qualifications in the practice session. Conway had to be taken to the hospital because of a crash in turn two. He would suffer bruised lungs and a concession. He was cleared prior to the second weekend of qualifications. Conway and his team should benefit from being under the Dreyer & Reinbold umbrella of teams, but there isn’t much else to build on. Completing the full 500 miles would be a positive for what has been a roller-coaster month of May.
Row 10 – Position 28 – John Andretti
What a month Andretti has had in the #43 Richard Petty Motorsports entry. He needed every qualification attempt on bump day to earn a spot in the field. This will be Andretti’s third straight Indy 500 after a 13 year absence. He enters the race with more of an appreciation for being in the field than any other 500 he has competed in. With all of the time used for qualifications, it’s hard to imagine that his team will have much time for a race-setup. The good news is that he is under the Dreyer & Reinbold umbrella of teams and that should allow his crew to share race strategies. Andretti is a good driver and should be considered a threat to finish in the top ten.
Row 10 – Position 29 – E.J. Viso
E.J. had the un-pleasant experience of being bumped from the field on the second day of qualifications. He is a very young at age 24 and is just in his second season of IndyCar racing. He hasn’t had much success on ovals, which doesn’t bold well for his chances at Indy. His in-experience and middle of the road team will keep him from a top 10, but finishing the full 500 miles in the top 20 would be considered an improvement from last year.
Row 10 – Position 30 – Milka Duno
Milka will be making her third consecutive Indy 500 start from the inside of 10. She finished a respectable 19th last year at Indy and was the highest finishing woman in the field, as wrecks collected Danica Patrick and Sarah Fisher. Her Dreyer & Reinbold team gave her a fast car on bump day and she rewarded them with four solid laps at over 221 mph. Her chances of victory at Indy are slim, but she could jumpstart her career by finishing in the top 10. She is slated to race a partial schedule for the remainder of the 2009 season, a strong finish could build some momentum for her team.
Row 11 – Position 31 – Nelson Philippe
This former Champ Car driver is considered a rookie this year at Indy, but has experience as he was the youngest ever (17) to compete in a Champ Car race before the merger. He has struggled to find speed all month, but found it at the right time on bump day. He is not a threat to win to the race nor does he have a ride for after Indy. Finishing the race for his HVM Racing team would be a huge accomplishment for this French Driver.
Row 11 – Position 32 – Ryan Hunter-Reay
Hunter-Reay had a very frustrating month driving for Vison racing. He struggled to find speed throughout the entire month and nearly missed the field by being bumped by John Andretti at 5:57 p.m. on Bump day. Lucky for Hunter-Reay is that got on the track at 5:59 p.m. on Bump day and put himself back into the field by 0.0324 of a second. For being the last qualifier he was award $50,000. Hunter-Reay is currently fifth in the points standings and had success prior to Indy. He needs to overcome the drama of Bump day and salvage a top 15 finish. He finished 6th at Indy a year ago in route to being named rookie of the year.
Row 11 – Position 33 – Alex Tagliani
Tagliani is driving for Conquest racing and was bumped on the very last day of qualifications by Ryan Hunter-Reay. He then replaced Bruno Junqueria in the other Conquest car due to sponsorship obligations. Tagliani will be driving in his first 500 and that means that his in-experience come race day will factor into where he finishes. He has had some success in CART/Champ Car, and that will help later in the season at some of the road courses. Tagliani experienced trouble on bump day, look for the same on race day.
Monday, May 11, 2009
Two Weeks Till the 93rd Running of the Indianapolis 500
Two weeks remain until the 93rd running of the Indianapolis 500. IndyCar Garage makes ten observations about what is going on in Indy.
1. TEAM PENSKE - What's not to like about what Roger Penske has done with his three cars this May. Helio's remarkable emergence since his tax evasion acquittal has done wonders for the IndyCar series and has put Penske in the running for another 500 victory. Ryan Briscoe has emerged as a series contender in his second full year for Team Penske. Will Power might be the best driver not going on to Milwaukee. Starting 1st, 2nd and 9th has Team Penske in position for another victory this May.
2. Dario Franchitti & Scott Dixon - What team has ever come to Indy with the past two 500 champions? Chip Ganassi has created a monopoly with Franchitti and Dixon. Dario has proven he hasn't missed a step since coming back from NASCAR and Dixon has recovered from a slow start at the beginning of the season. This team has the drivers, speed and technology to be successful come race day. It should be an outstanding battle between Ganassi and Penske.
3. Driver Quality- Unification has brought a renewed interset open in wheel racing in North America. Driver quality is in the spot light this May at Indy. No Indianapolis field since 1996 has had more talent or experience. Penske, Ganassi and AGR are the three power teams, but when you throw in Paul Tracy, Dan Wheldon, Vitor Meira, Scott Sharp, Graham Rahal, Ryan-Hunter Reay, Raphael Matos, Mario Moraes, John Andretti, Justin Wilson and fan favorite Sarah Fisher, you have a wealth of talent here that makes the build up for May 24th even more exciting.
4. Versus Coverage - I know the pre-Indy races were weak in ratings, but Versus coverage has been great in every way ESPN wasn't. Over 13 hours of coverage from this past weekend highlighted a great way to kick off the drama of May. Versus can improve, but lets hope that this a sign of good things to come.
5. Andretti-Green Racing - We all know Danica mania is in full effect, but when will the other AGR stars break through? Tony Kannan had to go to a backup car to get in the top 11, Marco is a lose cannon with loads of potential, and Mutoh is a steady counterpart. We haven't seen the speed from AGR that we have seen from Penske and Ganassi, but that doesn't mean they won't be around at the end. We can only hope Marco doesn't take out Kanaan again this year.
6. Sarah Fisher Racing - Sarah Fisher was nearly bankrupt last year as her team needed the 500 just to keep operations going. Dollar General has stepped up their sponsorship and it has payed off for her team. She is scheduled to race a partial schedule this year with a goal of a full schedule run in 2010. With her nerves from last May long gone and a secure sponsorship this time around, a top 5 finish would create a butting rivarly with Danica for top female driver.
7. The King at Indy - Anyone that has been involved in motorsports knows that Richard Petty's presence at Indy speaks volumes. His involvement with John Andretti only spices it up because of the history of the Andretti name. It was unfortunate to see Andretti wreck on day two, but it's great to see the King around the garages and at the track during May. How perfect would it be to see Petty and Andretti in victory circle together? Right now a top 15 sounds more realistic.
8. Carb Day - The Friday before the race has become a modern day version of the Snake Pit 21st century style. Over 100,000 people will pack the track for the final day of practice, the freedom 100, pit-stop competition and a late afternoon concert that has included the likes of Kid Rock, LIVE, and this year's headliner 3 Doors Down. It all makes for great people watching and a great kickoff to Memorial Day weekend. This year will be no different.
9. Who will be the long shot that's around at the end? - Last year it was Vitor Meira at 35 to 1 odds. The depth of this year's field should give us plenty of options to choose from. Not to say that Paul Tracy is a long shot, but he is probably the most motivated driver at Indy based off of his package for this race , the 2002 race andhis overall outgoing presence. Look for Tracy to wait around until the last 50 laps to make his move. Davey Hamilton is another to keep an eye on.
10. The Centennial Era has begun - This is the first of three years that the IMS will be celebrating their Centennial Era. The entire IMS facility is covered with the new Centennial Logo, reminding us all of the history and heritage of racing. It's great for the IndyCar Series.
1. TEAM PENSKE - What's not to like about what Roger Penske has done with his three cars this May. Helio's remarkable emergence since his tax evasion acquittal has done wonders for the IndyCar series and has put Penske in the running for another 500 victory. Ryan Briscoe has emerged as a series contender in his second full year for Team Penske. Will Power might be the best driver not going on to Milwaukee. Starting 1st, 2nd and 9th has Team Penske in position for another victory this May.
2. Dario Franchitti & Scott Dixon - What team has ever come to Indy with the past two 500 champions? Chip Ganassi has created a monopoly with Franchitti and Dixon. Dario has proven he hasn't missed a step since coming back from NASCAR and Dixon has recovered from a slow start at the beginning of the season. This team has the drivers, speed and technology to be successful come race day. It should be an outstanding battle between Ganassi and Penske.
3. Driver Quality- Unification has brought a renewed interset open in wheel racing in North America. Driver quality is in the spot light this May at Indy. No Indianapolis field since 1996 has had more talent or experience. Penske, Ganassi and AGR are the three power teams, but when you throw in Paul Tracy, Dan Wheldon, Vitor Meira, Scott Sharp, Graham Rahal, Ryan-Hunter Reay, Raphael Matos, Mario Moraes, John Andretti, Justin Wilson and fan favorite Sarah Fisher, you have a wealth of talent here that makes the build up for May 24th even more exciting.
4. Versus Coverage - I know the pre-Indy races were weak in ratings, but Versus coverage has been great in every way ESPN wasn't. Over 13 hours of coverage from this past weekend highlighted a great way to kick off the drama of May. Versus can improve, but lets hope that this a sign of good things to come.
5. Andretti-Green Racing - We all know Danica mania is in full effect, but when will the other AGR stars break through? Tony Kannan had to go to a backup car to get in the top 11, Marco is a lose cannon with loads of potential, and Mutoh is a steady counterpart. We haven't seen the speed from AGR that we have seen from Penske and Ganassi, but that doesn't mean they won't be around at the end. We can only hope Marco doesn't take out Kanaan again this year.
6. Sarah Fisher Racing - Sarah Fisher was nearly bankrupt last year as her team needed the 500 just to keep operations going. Dollar General has stepped up their sponsorship and it has payed off for her team. She is scheduled to race a partial schedule this year with a goal of a full schedule run in 2010. With her nerves from last May long gone and a secure sponsorship this time around, a top 5 finish would create a butting rivarly with Danica for top female driver.
7. The King at Indy - Anyone that has been involved in motorsports knows that Richard Petty's presence at Indy speaks volumes. His involvement with John Andretti only spices it up because of the history of the Andretti name. It was unfortunate to see Andretti wreck on day two, but it's great to see the King around the garages and at the track during May. How perfect would it be to see Petty and Andretti in victory circle together? Right now a top 15 sounds more realistic.
8. Carb Day - The Friday before the race has become a modern day version of the Snake Pit 21st century style. Over 100,000 people will pack the track for the final day of practice, the freedom 100, pit-stop competition and a late afternoon concert that has included the likes of Kid Rock, LIVE, and this year's headliner 3 Doors Down. It all makes for great people watching and a great kickoff to Memorial Day weekend. This year will be no different.
9. Who will be the long shot that's around at the end? - Last year it was Vitor Meira at 35 to 1 odds. The depth of this year's field should give us plenty of options to choose from. Not to say that Paul Tracy is a long shot, but he is probably the most motivated driver at Indy based off of his package for this race , the 2002 race andhis overall outgoing presence. Look for Tracy to wait around until the last 50 laps to make his move. Davey Hamilton is another to keep an eye on.
10. The Centennial Era has begun - This is the first of three years that the IMS will be celebrating their Centennial Era. The entire IMS facility is covered with the new Centennial Logo, reminding us all of the history and heritage of racing. It's great for the IndyCar Series.
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