Morning update from Indy

As practice got underway Friday Ed Carpenter hit 228.017, which was is the first 228 of the month. Beautiful conditions 74 degrees, light winds, fluffy clouds. Alex Tagliani then went 228.3 mph on just his 5th lap of the day.

Simona de Silvestro, who was involved in a crash 25 minutes into the practice session May 19 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, was not cleared to drive in the scheduled six-hour practice session May 20 after being evaluated by INDYCAR medical director Dr. Michael Olinger.

She will be re-evaluated at the IU Health Infield Care Center on May 21, preceding scheduled two practice sessions and Pole Day qualifications. INDYCAR rules allow a substitute driver, but a switch necessitates starting at the rear of the 33-car field.