Indy deadline just a number now

There was a day when making the 33-car Indy 500 field was an honor – something very special. Than the IRL was formed and now 33 is just a number according to Tony George. At one time meeting the early April deadline to enter the Indy 500 was a big deal. Now, since the IRL was formed, the April deadline is also just a number/date it seems.

Indy Racing League officials hope the price is right to attract even more participants to next month's Indianapolis 500 though the entry deadline has passed. Although the entry deadline has passed, the race's chief steward, Brian Barnhart, has the authority to make exceptions.

In promotional materials recently sent to about 50 potential team owners, including past participants and those currently involved in the Champ Car World Series, the IRL illustrates that equipment for the 91st-annual event can be acquired for as little as $321,200.

That doesn't include paying a driver or crew, much less the cost of food or lodging during the event, but the IRL's goal is to encourage people to join the crowd.