Wow!!

May 28, 2006

This year's Indy 500 will go down as one of the all-time classics as Sam Hornish, Jr. passed rookie sensation Marco Andretti with less than 100 yards to go on the final lap in what was the second closest finish in Indy 500 history. And we were there to see it all. There is no way to really capture what going to an Indy 500 is like without experiencing it. Over 350,000 spectators jam the speedway each year for what truly is "The Greatest Spectacle in Racing". We got an early start so we could wander around the place and truly take in the total atmosphere. It was an awesome experience despite the incredible 90+ degree heat. The hottest day in Indy 500 history. At least there was no rain. We had decent seats coming out of the 4th turn where we were able to see a couple of wrecks, some great passing and the final duel to the checkered flag. The tradition and build-up to the start of the race is truly an amazing thing and when the 33 cars thunder down for the start, well there is nothing like it in sports. We were fortunate right away because one of the guys we had in the betting Calcutta (PJ Chesson) crashed out and finished in last place, meaning Jimmy & I won a small chunk of change.





The race featured a ton of exciting action. Dan Wheldon lead much of the time, but when it came down to the end it was a duel between Hornish, Michael & Marco Andretti (father & son). With 4 laps to go Michael held the lead, with Marco second and Hornish third. Marco quickly passed his father, as did Hornish, setting up the final charge to the finish. We were pulling for Marco, mostly because my good friend Jason Richardson works on his crew. Sadly he was passed at the line, but all in all it was a remarkable finish for a 19 year old rookie.

Marco Andretti

Jason Richardson

Danica Patrick

Ashley Judd- wife of driver Dario Franchitti