Fans encouraged to arrive early for full 100th Running of Indy 500
"The 100th Running of the Indy 500 only happens once, and fans won't want to miss a moment of this epic day," said Indianapolis Motor Speedway President J. Douglas Boles. "A full morning of fun, including SportsCenter broadcasting live from Pagoda Plaza and the Borg-Warner Trophy's epic March to the Yard of Bricks, is planned for spectators of all ages. With higher attendance than in recent years, it's a smart idea to leave home in the early morning hours and set yourself up for a day of shorter lines, less waiting and great experiences."
Gates at IMS open at 6 a.m. following the traditional cannon blast. All fans are encouraged to arrive by 8 a.m. or at least two hours earlier than their normal arrival time.
"This Race Day, we're celebrating with our largest crowd in decades," said Hulman Motorsports Senior Vice President of Events Allison Melangton. "To avoid unnecessary delays and to have the best experience possible, plan to get here in the early morning hours or at least two hours earlier than usual."
Many enjoyable opportunities are available to fans right as gates open or shortly after, including:
Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum open at 6 a.m.: The IMS Museum, featuring a special "50 Years of Team Penske in Racing" exhibit, will open to visitors at 6 a.m. Learn more about all of the museums attractions here: http://www.indyracingmuseum.org/.
Enhanced fan Midway open at 6 a.m.: This year's fan Midway features several exciting attractions, including the IMS Kids Zone and interactive activations from PlayStation, Mattel, New Era, Coca-Cola and more. The action-packed Chevy Stage is also in the lot adjacent to the Midway.
Shopping and food: 100th Running attire will go fast, so don't miss out! Grab breakfast and then shop for family and friends while supplies last. Retail and food options are available at 6 a.m.
100,000 Milk Bottles: Prairie Farms and the Indiana chapter of the American Dairy Association will distribute 100,000 milk bottles to fans on Race Day for an epic Milk Toast with the winner of the 100th Running. Don't miss your chance to be a part of history! Be first in line to grab a milk bottle.
SportsCenter from Pagoda Plaza: ESPN's SportsCenter will broadcast four live episodes from IMS this Month of May, with two being taped on Race Morning. The first episode tapes from 8 – 9 a.m. and you'll want to be in the Plaza early for a prime spot, behind the set and on-camera! If you want your friends and family to see you on national TV, this is the place to be.
Borg-Warner Trophy March to the Yard of Bricks at 8 a.m.: The Borg-Warner Trophy will begin an epic March to the Yard of Bricks at 8 a.m. from the basement doors of the IMS Museum. Line up outside the museum for a chance to see the Trophy – escorted by the Gordon Pipers – begin its journey.
Rolling Stage: This year, for the first time in recent memory, a rolling stage with musical entertainment will begin circling the track at 10 a.m. New York a cappella group Naturally 7 will play in Turns 1, 2 and 4.
Epic pre-race, be in your seat for it!: This year's pre-race will feature two fantastic flyovers, military tributes, "Back Home Again in Indiana" sung by Josh Kaufman and the Indianapolis Children's Choir, the national Anthem from Darius Rucker and Mario Andretti and Keith Urban teaming up for the "Fastest Seat in Sports" ride. Don't be waiting in line when pre-race starts.