“Gentlemen, start your engines.”
These words, the most famous in motorsports, are the official kickoff to the Indianapolis 500 each year. The race annually attracts one of the largest crowds anywhere for a one-day sporting event – the official capacity is 257,000 seats, 400,000 counting the infield area – and the track is a historic landmark that draws sightseers year round.
Part of what racing fans come to see in the offseason is the Indianapolis 500 Hall of Fame Museum. It immerses visitors in the rich history of the track, race and sport. The extensive museum has at least 75 vehicles on display at all times, including the Marmon “Wasp,” the winning car of the inaugural Indianapolis 500 in 1911.
While the museum always has an impressive assortment of cars and memorabilia, for the next few months it is home to a collection unlike any ever assembled. From now until May 31, an incredible 67 winning Indy 500 cars, representing 71 wins, have been brought under one roof.
At the official unveiling, Indianapolis Mayor Greg Ballard was in awe of the extensive exhibit. “It’s unbelievable, and I don’t think you’ll ever see anything like this anytime soon again,” he said.
Also in attendance were a number of past winning drivers, including Al and Bobby Unser, Rick Mears, Gil de Ferran, and last year’s winner, Dario Franchitti.
“I walked in with Al (Unser) and when we came in, we both just stopped,” Franchitti said. “It took my breath away.”
Bobby Unser, a three-time Indy 500 winner, felt much the same. Looking over the collection, he marveled at the sight. “It’s the only time in the history that this has ever happened, and it will probably never happen again,” he said. “When the fans come in they’re going to be able to come in and see all the technology changes from the beginning. People are really going to like that.”
If you happen to be in Indianapolis today, stop by the museum to meet the winning drivers and get some autographs, otherwise, you can stop by during normal hours and check out the new collection. You can also head to The Greatest 33 website and vote for your favorite Indianapolis 500 winners. Also, plan now to make your visit to the museum and to attend the 100th running of the Indinapolis 500 on May 29. According to Franchitti, it’s a decision you won’t regret.
“This city is going to be a great place to be come May,” he said
