Speedway fans making memories at IMS
INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) – Thursday was practice day for the Angie’s List Grand Prix at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS). It is the second year for the road race.
The legendary track is trying to reinvent itself, while remaining true to its roots. Track management said the big push this year is making people excited about the season and the new race.
Track officials said they want people to appreciate the history, while looking towards the future.
“Love it, love it, love it. First time this year,” said Vicki McKay.
It took over half a century for McKay and her fellow “Sassy Seniors” from the John Boner Center to make it to the IMS.
“The excitement, the thrills, just the sound of the cars racing just makes your heart race,” said McKay.
“It’s a great time for me and my son to spend some time together and bond and share my love of racing and he’s growing to love racing as well,” said John Noble while spending the day with his son.
IMS said relevancy is key, whether the audience is young or old.
“We’re trying to do all that we can to connect the fans to this brand and try and say thank you for 106 years of support of IMS,” said Doug Boles, president of IMS.
Boles was on hand today to announce Juncos Racing is coming to Speedway
“We are the racing capitol of the world and its not just about the race that takes place at IMS. Its about all the industry that supports those races,” said Boles.
Ricardo Juncos says his goal once he opens the $3 million, 41,000 square foot facility is to become an Indy Car team.
It’s a far cry from where he started.
“I started working as a mechanic and here we are today so for me its become a dream come true,” said Juncos.
The dream comes as the track faces declining ticket sales, but it still adds $600 million to the to the state’s economy.
Noble said it offers something most other sports don’t.
“It’s up close, its personal. its a great fan experience, and I love it,” said Noble.
On Saturday, for the first time at the end of the Grand Prix, fans will be able to walk onto the track to talk with crews and the drivers.
Track officials said its all about making that fan experience the best it can be.