May 26, 2019 – The 103rd Indianapolis 500 takes place. Simon Pagenaud of France is the winner.
During the race, the cars attempt to complete 200 laps around the 2.5-mile track, equaling 500 miles.
The track’s current dimensions are much the same as when it was constructed in 1909.
The race is among the world’s best-attended single-day sporting events. It drew crowds of over 400,000 during the 1990s.
Currently 33 cars start the race in rows of three. In the past there have been as few as 21 (1916) and as many as 42 (1933).
Three men have won the race four times: A.J. Foyt Jr., in 1961, 1964, 1967 and 1977; Al Unser Sr. in 1970, 1971, 1978 and 1987 and Rick Mears in 1979, 1984, 1988 and 1991.
The youngest winner is Troy Ruttman. He was 22 years and 80 days old when he won in 1952.
The oldest winner is Al Unser Sr. He was 47 years and 360 days old when he won in 1987.
Timeline
1906 – The Indianapolis Motor Speedway is founded by Carl Fisher.
August 19, 1909 – The first automobile race takes place at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Twelve thousand people are in attendance.
1945 – The track is sold to Anton Hulman Jr.