IMS President: rain won’t stop race

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (WISH) — Some racing fans say the expected rain will not keep them away from the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

Track officials said rain will not stop the Indianapolis Grand Prix.

“Nothing really changes if it rains,” IMS President Doug Boles said of Saturday’s race.

Boles said experts will be monitoring weather this weekend. If something more severe than rain comes through, track officials will have to decide whether to continue.

Last year, qualifying for the Indianapolis Grand Prix continued in the rain.

“We’re just trying to educate folks that when it rains here not only do they run, it’s pretty spectacular,” Boles said.

But Boles said he is worried that rain could drive fans away. Ponchos and umbrellas are available at the track.

The Kline family from Kokomo isn’t worried about that.

“We brought plastic bags for electronics, everything else can dry out,” Justin Kline said.

James Beall on the other hand said he kept a poncho in the car Friday. He’s been going to the track every year since 1967.

“I sat here in the rain a lot of times,” Beall said. “I mean it’s not the same but it’s still racing.”

“I’m still going to be here, rain or shine,” said racing fan Maddie Stahl. “I know it will scare some fans away but it’s such a good race, it’s still such a fun day, it brings everyone together.”

Even the man with arguably the heaviest right foot in Indianapolis plans to play it safe. Colts punter Pat McAfee will lead the pack in the pace car.

“I’m a law abiding citizen, so I always go the speed limit. 55 (miles per hour) around I-465, 45 (miles per hour) on the local roads,” McAfee said. “Wherever the school zone is I keep in track there, even if it’s not school time because you never know what’s hanging around there.”

Boles said a National Weather Service team member will be on site tomorrow. If there’s something fans need to know, Boles said it will be announced over the PA.