Indy 500 Video Diary – Race Day: The Greatest Spectacle in Racing lives up to billing in Indianapolis

THE BIGGEST SPORTING EVENT

My race day started with a 5am alarm call as myself and media colleagues who travelled to Indianapolis on behalf of ESPN received a police escort to the circuit – with wheels up from 6am.

All teams, commentators, officials and workers staying away from the venue were afforded that luxury given the traffic in the city and the hundreds of thousands of racegoers all heading in one direction to the 500-mile extravaganza.

We were all certainly grateful for the stress-free journey to our press box seats.

Arriving at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway – what struck me immediately was the sea of people, everywhere, getting ready for the biggest of days ahead.

It’s hard to compare it to any other event – but just imagine attending a big music festival, multiply its size by a 1000 or so and add in engines and cars. From there, you get somewhere close.

It was Memorial Day weekend in Indianapolis – an occasion where war veterans are honoured and remembered in the United States. I really enjoyed seeing people come together with pride and happiness to truly do justice to the most important few days in the midwestern state’s calendar.

Having been fortunate enough to experience this race, I can safely say it’s well and truly up there as one of the most enjoyable sporting days out.

BUZZ OF THE PITLANE

Strolling down the pitlane, taking in the smell of engines getting revved up and the excitement building up to the green flag was something special indeed.

My video (above) should provide you with a first-hand insight of the high doses of energy pulsing through Indianapolis.

ED JONES

One of Dubai’s very own did everyone proud by finishing as the fastest rookie.

It was a spellbinding performance from the 22-year-old Brit and the fact he was disappointed not to win the historic race goes a long way to show what kind of character he is.

The Dale Coyne Racing man has a very big future ahead of him and this is just the start I’m sure – it was a pleasure to watch his classy performance on Sunday.

MOMENT OF THE DAY

There were gasps of despair among us journalists when Scott Dixon’s Chip Ganassi Racing Honda car flew wildly through the air and caught fire after an ugly collision with Britain’s Jay Howard.

Fortunately (and remarkably) both drivers emerged unscathed. Don’t look at the Tweet below if you’re squeamish.

Until next time, thanks Indy!