Tickets on sale for return to The Mile

Within hours of announcing the resumption of IndyCar racing at The Milwaukee Mile in 2011, Chris McGrath’s e-mail inbox was filled quicker than a trick or treat sack.

“Response has been outstanding," says McGrath, CEO of AB Productions. “In just a few days following the racing schedule press conference, we received thousands of calls and requests about tickets – many from prior season ticket-holders."

Individual tickets for the June 19 IZOD IndyCar Series race are on sale as of Nov. 1 (10 a.m. local) at www.milwaukeemile2011.tix.com or by calling 800-722-3840. It’s Father’s Day weekend, so cross off one gift purchase from your list with the click of a mouse or phone call. Hospitality packages, including paddock passes, and groups sales also are available.

“The support we’ve received from so many deepens our conviction that we’re on track for a great weekend in Milwaukee on Father’s Day next year," McGrath says.
The IZOD IndyCar Series was featured at the historic track in West Allis, Wis., from 2004-09, with Scott Dixon winning the 2009 race in the No. 9 Target Chip Ganassi Racing car.

"I’m genuinely exciting to have The Milwaukee Mile back on the schedule," Dixon said. "We definitely missed it this season. This is what we need; it’s part of Indy car history."

Auto racing at The Milwaukee Mile debuted on Sept. 11, 1903, when William Jones of Chicago won a five-lap speed contest. It has played host to auto racing every year since. It wasn't until 1915 that the first 100-mile race was held, with Louis Disbrow averaging 62.5 mph to take the checkered flag.

The roster of past winners at The Milwaukee Mile is a veritable “who’s who" of racing history, including Barney Oldfield, Rex Mays, A.J. Foyt, Al Unser, Rick Mears and Mario Andretti. Ten of the 40 starters in the inaugural Indianapolis 500 in 1911 raced at The Milwaukee Mile in a pair of races on the dirt oval.