Fans come from 48 states, 16 countries for Indianapolis 500

Fans traveled from as far as Australia and Japan to see the "Greatest Spectacle in Racing" this weekend – and they didn't leave disappointed.

Organizers said 48 states and 16 different countries were represented among the tens of thousands of fans who showed up for the event.

"It is the biggest motorsports event in the world, and I've been to a few," said Philip Lewis. "Everything else pales in significance."

For some fans, the race is an annual tradition.

"We've been here about four or five times. We love it," said Larry Miller. "It's a lot of fun."

For others, the 98th running of the Indianapolis 500 was their first experience with the event.

"I always make a rule to bring rookies every year," said Ryan Pickering. "I always bring someone who's never been so they can experience their first time."

One moment stood out for many longtime fans, however: Jim Nabors' final rendition of "(Back Home Again In) Indiana."

Fans told us it "kind of breaks my heart" to see Nabors sing for the final time. The "Andy Griffith Show" and "Gomer Pyle" star has sung at the race since 1972. TheIndyChannel