Historic IndyCar chassis up for auction

Sure it’s been around since March of 2011, but the voyage of The Stinger, a specially constructed Indy car commissioned by Window World Cares to benefit St. Jude Children’s Research is nearing the end of one road and the start of another.

The Stinger, a modern interpretation of the 1911 Mormon Wasp that won the first running of the Indianapolis 500, is a later-day Indy car Dallara chassis and body dressed in the distinctive yellow colors that signified the Mormon Wasp. Since being commissioned in 2011 it has traveled throughout the United States, gaining signatures from each living Indianapolis 500 starter. For each autograph, Window World has donated $189 to St. Jude’s - and the number is edging toward 250 of 274 living Indy 500 starters.

To date this campaign has raised close to $50,000 through signatories as it has traveled these United States. The signatures include 29 winners of the Greatest Spectacle in Racing. 

Now the No. 100 Stinger has yet another trip to take - to auction. 

How can you buy it?

Mecum Auctions will sell the car during its annual May five-day auction at the Indianapolis State Fairgrounds. All proceeds directly benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The auction is held May 12-16; Window World announced the coming auction of The Stinger during Mecum’s late January auction at Kissimmee, Florida. 

Window World Cares, a charity begun by company owner Tammy Whitworth and her late husband Tom, provides direct funding for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, has raised more than $4.85 million directly benefiting this great charity.

Former D&R car

Window World driver, spokesperson and the instigator of this project, John Andretti (together with Andretti Autosport and Window World) acquired the Dallara chassis from the Dreyer & Reinbold Indy car team before the 2011 season. He has nurtured the car to its current show-car state and it’s ready to find a new home. It was initially shown, before the drive to gain signatures began, during the 100th anniversary of the Indy 500 in 2011. 

The Stinger will have a new home, courtesy of the generosity of someone who recognizes the needs of sick children and who cherishes the legendary Indianapolis 500, shortly before the 99th running of this great American race, which celebrates its 100th running in May of 2016.