Indianapolis Celebrates Another Successful Brickyard 400

by Ryan Carrell

The traveling community that is NASCAR leaves Indianapolis after the 17th running of the Brickyard 400 on Sunday. I enjoyed the race with friends, family, and what was reported as a “relatively small crowd” of about 140,000 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The Town of Speedway, within the city limits of Indianapolis and where the track is located, was a gracious host as always. Not to mention the fabulous traffic coordination between Speedway’s, Indianapolis’, and the State’s finest – 140,000 people and we were home in 29 minutes! Even with attendance down, the city and its leaders recognize the huge economic impact the Brickyard has on the local economy. Indianapolis Mayor Greg Ballard was interviewed at the Speedway talking

about just that…and the that he’s rooting for home-grown Indiana’s Jeff Gordon and Tony Stewart! The reality is that racing is in the blood of many Hoosiers. The sights, the sounds, and the smell of rubber and racing fuel are all a part of the experience. Jamie McMurray, the driver of the #1 car, won the race and celebrated in victory lane with his team. At the same time many of us in central Indiana celebrated right along with them knowing we had again succeeded in hosting a great event, showcased our wonderful city to many, and put dollars to work in our community that will help all.