Indianapolis 500

The Indianapolis 500-Mile Race, often shortened to Indy 500, and historically known simply as "The 500," is an American automobile race, held annually over the Memorial Day weekend at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in Speedway, Indiana. The event is one of the oldest and richest motor sport events in existence, with one of the largest attendances, and radio and television audiences, of any single-day sporting event worldwide. While the official attendance is not disclosed by Speedway management, news media estimate attendance in excess of 270,000.

History
The early years
The Indianapolis Motor Speedway complex was built in 1909. The track was then paved with 3.2 million bricks. The creation of a 500 mile race allowed the track to rapidly acquire a privileged status for automobile races. The first "500" was held on May 30, 1911 at the Speedway. 80,200 spectators paid $1 admission. Many considered Harroun to be a hazard during the race.

Race Name
The race was originally advertised as the "International 500-Mile Sweepstakes Race" from 1911-1916. The race was referred to as the "Liberty Sweepstakes" In 1919, following WWI. The race reverted to the "International Sweepstakes" name from 1920-1980, "International Sweepstakes Race, Distance 500 Miles." Following WWII, the race was commonly recognized as "The 500", The 500-Mile Race," "Indianapolis 500," or "Indy 500".

European Incursions:
In the meantime, European manufacturers made a brief return just before World War II, with the competitive Maserati 8CM. With the 500 having been a part of the World Drivers' Championship between 1950 and 1960, Ferrari made a discreet appearance at the 1952 event with Alberto Ascari, but European entries were few and far between during those days.

World Series
Foreign drivers started showing up at the Indianapolis 500 on a regular basis. Brazilian Emerson Fittipaldi, Italian Teo Fabi and Colombian Roberto Guerrero, were able to obtain good outings in the 80s. However, it wasn't until 1993 that reigning Formula One World Champion Nigel Mansell shocked the racing world by moving to the United States, winning the PPG CART IndyCar World Series title and only losing the 500 in his rookie year because of inexperience with green-flag restarts. Foreign-born or, at least, -bred drivers became a regular fixture of Indianapolis in the years to follow.

NASCAR drivers in the 500
A few NASCAR drivers would be able to complete double duty racing the Indianapolis 500 between 1994 and 2005, and the Coca-Cola 600 at Lowe's Motor Speedway. Drivers usually caught a helicopter directly from the Speedway to take them to the Indianapolis International Airport, flew into Concord Regional Airport. Notable drivers include Tony Stewart, Robby Gordon, and John Andretti. Stewart completed double duty in 1999 and 2001. Gordon has done it the most number of times. In 2000 Gordon missed the start of the Coca-Cola 600. Gordon placed P. J. Jones in his NASCAR car while Gordon finished the Indianapolis 500.

Technical Regulations
Traditions
A number of traditions have developed over the years. For many fans, these traditions are almost as important as the race itself.
Pre-race
Since 1972, on the Friday before the race the "Last Row Party" has been held every year for charity. It serves as a roast for the final three qualifiers in the 500. They are usually, the slowest three cars in the field. Many of these drivers are often obscure.

RaceIn 1994, the cars begin the race in a rolling start. This derives from a 1919 AAA mandate of one car for every 400 feet of track. There have been no fewer than 33 qualifiers since 1933.

Entertainment
The Indianapolis 500 has been the subject of several films, and has experienced countless references in television, movies, and other media.In late 2007, Indianapolis 500 Legends, a Wii and DS game based on the race is programmed for release.

Indianapolis 500 is an annually held event that consists of automobile racing, usually held on the Memorial Day or May's last weekend. The event takes place on the specially designed tracks at Speedway, Indiana, by the name "Indianapolis Motor Speedway". Indianapolis 500, called "The Greatest Spectacle in Racing" is one of the greatest motorsportsevents of the world. The seating capacity is about 257,000, but during the contest about 400,000 spectators are accommodated. Thus, more than 400,000 attend the event live and million others watch the live broadcast on television. The event is usually broadcasted at "ABC channel".

Indianapolis 500 complex was built in 1909, back then it held small contests including motorcycles. The very first long-distance race was a 100-lap race for the Trophy called "Prest-O-Lite". The trophy was won by Bob Burman. The racing event includes both male and female drivers. In earlier decades Indianapolis 500 was an open event, but now it's more of an invitational event.

Indianapolis 500 qualifying process goes on for two days. By the end of the first day nine drivers are selected and they take part in a 90 minute shootout contest, this first day is known as the "Pole Day". The second day is called the "Bump Day" and the 33 cars take part. If you like motorsport events and car racing, this is the very show you need to attend. For that, get your Indianapolis 500 tickets today!