So, Jeff Gordon will drive the pace car for this year’s Indianapolis
500.
Nothing against Jeff Gordon, but, really?
I guess Helio Castroneves will drive the pace car for this year’s
Brickyard 400 then.
To have a current NASCAR driver pace the field for the Indianapolis 500
seems bizarre.
And a bit insulting. With the 100th Indianapolis 500 coming
next year, this is the time to remember the unparalleled heritage of the event
and its drivers.
If it’s necessary to have a current NASCAR driver with Indiana
connections drive the pace car for the 500, then Tony Stewart would have made
more sense. Unlike Gordon, the Columbus native at least DROVE in the
Indianapolis 500 – five times.
My suggestion for this year’s pace car driver is Danny Sullivan in
honor of the 30th anniversary of his spin and win.
For old times’ sake, Sullivan could loop the pace car in Turn 1 in front
of Mario Andretti ’s two-seater.
Several pace-car “rookies” with deep connections to the Indianapolis
500 were available, such as Arie Luyendyk. Race-day duties keep Rick Mears and Roger
Penske occupied, though it seems that could be figured out. After all, A.J.
Foyt led the field in 2011 and made it back to his pit box.
The list goes on: Mario Andretti. Bobby Rahal. Michael Andretti. Al
Unser Jr. Any of them – and many more – would’ve made more sense.
Next year, I hope all the retired Indianapolis 500 champions are part
of the parade lap, with Foyt, Mears and Al Unser Sr. in one car leading the
field to the green flag.
Based on this year’s selection, it’ll probably be Richard Petty.
Photo
credit: Indianapolis Motor Speedway
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