The Indianapolis 500 is happening next week! It's the Hoosier tradition of over 300,000 people gathering together at the track on the last Sunday in May. They will watch race car drivers reach up to 239 MPH speeds for 800 left turns in a row.
Besides hearing "Back Home Again in Indiana" sung at the beginning of the 500, my (and my kids') favorite part has to be watching the winner drink and then pour milk on him or herself at the very end of the race!
Since the Indianapolis Motor Speedway is only about 10 miles away from where we live, it's not hard to believe there are a few Hendricks County residents who work in and around the track! I had a chance to catch up with one of those IMS families this week. I chatted with Colten, 10, about racing, the IMS, and what it's like to have a parent work there:
Do you like racing?
Yeah.
Is there a sport you like better?
The Olympics.
What’s your favorite Racing event?
The ChampCar Race that will be here in July.
Where is your favorite spot on the IMS grounds?
The pits—because I get to see the cars and see their wheels changed.
What’s the best thing about having your dad work at the track?
We get free tickets!
What’s your favorite thing to do when nobody is there?
I run around and race my brother. Not on the track, though. We're not allowed to run on the track.
What advice would you give a kid who is going to IMS for the first time?
Stay with your parents! It would be really easy to get lost.
Tips for parents
Be sure to take along:
- Ear plugs
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Water (backpack)
- Hats
For a full list of IMS events and ticket information, check their website!
