Indy offers Bronze Badge credentials for fans

Fans can't enter the locker room of a professional sports team, but a Bronze Badge offers fans that kind of unprecedented, up-close access at the Indianapolis 500.

Bronze Badge credentials for the 2009 Indianapolis 500, which provide fans age 18 and older with rare, behind-the-scenes access, can be purchased from the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Client Service office starting April 20, 2009, on a first-come, first-served basis at the discretion of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

Fans may request an advance order form before April 20. When an advance order is received, a coupon will be mailed to be redeemed for a Bronze Badge beginning April 20.

Each Bronze Badge costs only $100 and provides gate and garage access from the Rookie Orientation Program on Tuesday, May 5 through Saturday, May 23. The badge is not valid on Race Day, Sunday, May 24.

Certain restrictions apply to the Bronze Badge. Call the IMS Client Service office at (317) 492-6500 for additional information.

Besides providing unique up-close access, the Bronze Badge is a coveted piece of racing memorabilia each year. As the Indianapolis Motor Speedway is celebrating its Centennial Era, the likenesses of the four founding fathers Arthur Newby, Frank Wheeler, Carl Fisher and James Allison, appear on the 2009 Badge.