Top 20 moments of 2013, #18: Two at Indy in 2014
Our 18th moment of 2013 is the announcement about the addition of a road course race to the month of May at the 'Speedway.
Work on repaving the infield road course continues
Chris Owens
The Indianapolis 500 has always been a staple of American motorsports. But with dwindling attendance number in the past few years, INDYCAR decided to try something new.
With a boatload of money available for the track via a local area improvement initiative, Indianapolis Motor Speedway has been looking for a way to spend that money.
Many people were talking about the possibility of adding lights to the venue, giving the track the ability to race during day and night.
Ryan Briscoe and Graham Rahal were tapped to run tests on the track during a couple off weeks, testing out a number of the different configuration the facility holds, and after that test they came to a conclusion that a revamped configuration would be best for competition and for spectators alike.
In the end, the IndyCar brass decided that beginning the month of May with a road course race at the ‘Speedway would be the best option.
On Oct. 1, IndyCar announced the details of the event, which will be held May 8-10, 2014 will kick off the on track action at Indianapolis for the lead up to the 98th Indianapolis 500, slated for May 25.
This announcement seemed to strike a negative chord with many of the diehard fans, and those who value the history of the track, but if this race hits the target for those at IndyCar who dreamed it up, it could reinvigorate the month of May.
“We haven’t changed the tradition. Opening day is still Sunday…the only difference is we have a great race Saturday,” said 2013 Indy 500 Champion Tony Kanaan.
“I don’t know where I am going to be, but I will have a car in and try to beat you guys.”
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