Introduction to the 109th Running of the Indianapolis 500
The day of the 109th Running of the Indianapolis 500 has finally arrived. Starting this morning, around 350,000 people from all around the world will descend on the Indianapolis Motor Speedway for the “greatest spectacle in racing.” For updates on the race from FOX59/CBS4, click here.
Preparations and Festivities
Over the last few months, central Indiana has been preparing for this year’s race. The Indy 500 will air live in the region after all reserved seats in the speedway, including the grandstands and suites, sold out. Traditionally, the race has been blacked out in the local TV market in the case of a non-sellout. This comes after Indianapolis has seen Indy 500-related festivities throughout the weekend, including Carb Day on Friday and the AES 500 Festival Parade and Legends Day festivities on Saturday.
Pre-Race Schedule and Events
Today, gates to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway are expected to open at 6 a.m. for the annual race. Several events will occur before the race even begins, including live music from the Snake Pit beginning at 8 a.m. eastern time. At 9 a.m. eastern time, the cars will be driven to the pit lane and the cars are expected to grid on the front stretch starting at 10:30 a.m. As for the race itself, the driver introductions are expected to begin at 11:47 a.m., the national anthem is expected to be performed at 12:20 p.m. and the famed “Drivers, start your engines!” call is expected at 12:38 p.m.
Weather Concerns
However, eyes will be on the skies this morning to make sure that the weather will not impact the race. According to a FOX59/CBS4 forecast, temperatures are expected be sitting in the lower 50’s with cloudy skies when the gates open on Sunday morning. As for rain, there continue to be chances south of Indianapolis and central Indiana. The dry air is expected to evaporate any rain showers before they reach the ground.
Live Coverage and Broadcast
You can watch FOX59’s pre-race coverage from 5-10 a.m. eastern time in the video player above. This story will also be updated frequently with updates surrounding the race. Starting at 10 a.m., FOX Sports will begin providing live coverage of pre-race festivities before the race officially starts at 12:45 p.m. eastern time and will air live FOX stations. A replay of the race will also be televised at 7 p.m. Sunday in the Indianapolis market.
Conclusion
The 109th Running of the Indianapolis 500 promises to be an exciting event, with a packed schedule of pre-race activities and a highly anticipated race. As the morning continues, this story will be updated with clips from this morning’s coverage.
FAQs
- Q: What time do the gates open at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway?
A: The gates are expected to open at 6 a.m. - Q: What time does the race start?
A: The race is expected to start at 12:45 p.m. eastern time. - Q: Will the race be televised?
A: Yes, the race will be televised live on FOX stations, and a replay will be shown at 7 p.m. Sunday in the Indianapolis market. - Q: What are the weather conditions expected to be like?
A: Temperatures are expected to be in the lower 50’s with cloudy skies, and there is a chance of rain south of Indianapolis and central Indiana.
