IRL: Indianapolis 500 has Deep USAC Roots

"The Starting Line For Champions." That phrase is echoed in the list of drivers entered for this year's Indianapolis 500, the Indy Racing Northern Light Series 500-mile race scheduled May 28 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. More than half of ...

"The Starting Line For Champions." That phrase is echoed in the list of drivers entered for this year's Indianapolis 500, the Indy Racing Northern Light Series 500-mile race scheduled May 28 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

More than half of the drivers listed on the current roster of entries have a USAC heritage. Included are Al Unser, Jr., Tyce Carlson, Mark Dismore, Jimmy Kite, Andy Hillenburg, Donnie Beechler, Dan Drinan, Billy Boat, Davey Hamilton, Sarah Fisher, Doug Didero, Andy Michner, Ronnie Johncox, J.J. Yeley and Formula 2000 veterans Jeret Schroeder, Greg Ray, Robby McGehee and Memo Gidley.

Throw in those drivers who have completed recent Indy Racing "rookie" tests and you have the makings for a real USAC shootout at the brickyard.

Eight of the above have already competed in USAC events this season and two-time IRL runner-up Hamilton leads this year's USAC Western Sprint Car series, having posted victories at Stockton and Irwindale, Calif..

Practice for the "500" begins May 13, with qualifying slated May 20-21 and the race is Sunday, May 28.