Thursday in Indianapolis

Welcome to Indy. After parking between Turns Three and Four, then walking back to the Administrative offices outside of Turn One, then trekking back to the MASSIVE media center I have taken my place in Row "F" where the bloggers will be kept under close observation. Yes, "F" me, thank you very much.

I can't complain, because this is an awesome facility with awesome hospitality, and the most awesome almond cheesecake served in the media deli. I'm not worthy of any of this, but I take comfort in the fact the fact is none of us here are. This is Indy, and we are all guests to history.



As you can see, there's not much going on in here today, although a handful of diligent folks including the intrepid Curt Cavin were here. Curt didn't have his cell phone in his ear, so I'm pretty sure that nothing is happening today.

In the meantime, I decided to roam the hallowed grounds. Good thing too, as I was able to meet up with a handful of the fun and interesting individuals who make Indy such a special place.

Brandon Barnes - From the best I can tell, Brandon is the other "blogger" here today, roaming the garages and talking with racing teams. Ironically, he's probably the only blogger who does NOT have a credential. He does however have a degree in Criminal Justice, so I'm sure he an and will find a way in. He may also be on apprenticeship with Security Chief Charles.

Shane Rogers - Two words: International Superstar. Shane has traveled all the way from Melbourne, Australia to enjoy some IndyCar action this summer. I have determined at some point I must tip pints with this fellow until he busts out a "fair dinkum".

Jim Michaelian - Jim is THE MAN in charge of the Grand Prix of Long Beach, which is an AMAZING event featuring six different series of racing, a giant convention center full of cars, and tons of other really cool stuff to do if you aren't trying to track down news about Helio Castroneves' acquittal. Jim said having the IndyCar series this year helped bump sales up despite the bad economy, including an estimated attendance of 50,000 on the Friday before the race. Sounds like bunnies and rainbows in SoCal.

Michael - a.k.a. "IndyCar SuperFan". Been coming here since 1992, and been working on his enhancing his appearance every year. This year he's sporting a blue Colts mustache, which speaks volumes to his level of dedication. Someone in Indianapolis needs to hand this man the keys to the city.

There weren't many folks hanging out in the garages, as most teams had everything dialed down in anticipation of tomorrow's festivities. I did notice that Paul Tracy has a new sponsor - a bar named "Rehab Vegas". Let's see ...Lindsay Lohan? Amy Winehouse? Jessica Sierra? I can't decide which joke to write.



I noticed that Vision Racing Indy Lights team is now being run by Lauren George and is sponsored by People's Liberation. Although we're getting closer to having an IndyCar race in China, it's important to note this is a clothing company and not the People's Liberation Army.



That's it for today. Tomorrow is Carb Day, which means the Freedom 100 Indy Lights race, the pit stop contest for IndyCar teams, and 100,000 of your drunkest friends slurring the words to songs by "3 Doors Down". And hopefully more delicious cheesecake.