The Indianapolis 500, arguably the premier auto racing event in the world, was won by Ryan Hunter-Reay on May 26.
The American triumphed by passing Brazilian Helio Castroneves with two laps to go, then holding onto his slim lead to the finish. Last year, Hunter-Reay came in third, losing to Tony Kanaan, who passed him at the last moment in a move much like the one he used to pass Castroneves this time round.
Hunter-Reay won the race by 0.06 seconds, which is the second-closest finish in the history of the 500. Castroneves said he was surprised by Hunter-Reay’s win, as he did not think it was possible for Hunter-Reay to pass him as he did.
On winning, Hunter-Reay said he was grateful to Michael Andretti for his win. The son of the legendary driver Mario Andretti, Michael owns Andretti Autosport, which is based in Indianapolis. Andretti employs three drivers: Hunter-Reay, Dario Franchitti, and Dan Wheldon. Hunter-Reay also credited Bobby Rahal for helping his career. Rahal hired Hunter-Reay when he was out of work, and Andretti hired him after that.
Hunter-Reay is the first race winner born in the United States since Sam Hornish, Jr., won in 2006. Indianapolis officials could work with a banner printing company to create flags to hang throughout the city to celebrate the race and its Texas-born winner.
