The Indianapolis 500: A Century of High Speed Racing by Lew Freedman celebrates the first century of the Indianapolis 500. The cover photo features the most famous elements: black and white checks, the trophy, an old racing car, the pagoda and the tower. The book does the same. The introduction explains that the track was originally conceived as an automobile testing facility to help central Indiana become the epicenter of automobile manufacturing. Soon, however, the public’s desire to watch the racers pass at incredible speeds took over. A short history of the race follows.
Well organized, the book is divided into 11 sections such as “The Beginnings,” “A Decade of Greatness,” and “New Fan Favorites.” A recap of each year’s race is featured in chronological order within the groupings. There are also interesting inserts on many topics including Tom Carnegie, Janet Guthrie, Creation of CART, and the Borg-Warner Trophy among others. Many pictures are also featured. The writing is accessible, precise and full of facts. The trade paperback book is an easy to carry size and very affordable at $12.95.
The inset on attendance fascinated me. Every time I’ve gone, the event has provided me with fantastic people watching opportunities. I never realized, however, that the Speedway accommodated so many more people than the other athletic facilities.
Meet the author on Wednesday, May 25 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Central Library and Friday, May 27 from 5 -7 at Bookmamas, 9 S. Johnson Ave. in Irvington.
