Despite a rain delay and extended time on Wednesday we saw the quickest speeds of the month so far.
With nine drivers over the 225 MPH mark including Grand Prix Winner Simon Pagenuad leading the pack with a quick lap of 226.122 in his 36 laps of action. E.J. Viso backed up his 224.488 time just a day before with a 224.731 performance.
So what caused the quicker speeds? Was it the colder air? More traction on the track? It’s expected to be very similar conditions for the rest of the week heading into qualifying on Saturday and Pole Day on Sunday. When you see a jump of 1.6 MPH in just one day, something very interesting is bound to happen.
Remember the young rookie in 2011 that wrecked out of turn 4? What was his name? Anyone remember J.R. Hildebrand? Heeeee’s baaack! Driving for Ed Carpenter racing in the same car that won the Owner the pole here last year, he posted times of 221.737 in practice 3 and came back showing some impressive speed at 225.854.
Meanwhile, Doctors have allowed the Canadian James Hinchcliffe to start training again. We aren’t yet sure if he’ll qualify yet this weekend. Although E.J. Viso is keeping his seat warm, rumors have come around saying Viso may be signed by another team, leaving Andretti one car less.
This is Indianapolis. Anything can happen.
Stay tuned for more interviews, articles, and updates throughout the rest of May.
-Ryan Kent Jr.
@RyanKent47
