If you joined us for 30 Days in May earlier this year, you’ll see some familiar faces from that countdown. We’ve also added some new entries for 23 Days in August. So let’s celebrate some notable drivers and cars from the glorious past of the Indianapolis 500!
A.J. Foyt began his long association with Jim Gilmore in 1973.
23 Days in August: No. 14, A.J. Foyt,
1973 Gilmore Racing Coyote/Foyt. Amazingly, A.J. Foyt was close to the bubble
for the 1973 500, as his speed average of 188.927 mph was 32nd-fastest
(or second-slowest). Not surprisingly, the 1973 race was one to forget for
Foyt. His Coyote dropped out after 37 laps, then Foyt took over teammate George
Snider’s car, which wound up 11th.
Why Foyt had so
much trouble in time trials in 1973 is hard to fathom because Super Tex usually
was an excellent qualifier. Consider this: In 1991, 33 years after his 500
debut plus coming off devastating lower-leg injuries suffered in a gruesome
crash at Road America and at age 56 (!) no less, the amazing Foyt earned a
front-row stating position – between Rick Mears and Mario Andretti. Many
consider this the greatest front row in Indianapolis 500 history. And it has to
rank as one of the greatest feats (no pun intended) in Foyt’s amazing career.
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