The Indy 500, is an American automobile race, held annually over the Memorial Day weekend at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in Speedway, Indiana.

The event, billed as The Greatest Spectacle in Racing, is considered one of the three most significant motorsports events in the world.

The official attendance is not disclosed by Speedway management, but the permanent seating capacity is more than 257,000 people, and infield seating that raises capacity further to an approximate 450,000 people.

The 2.5 mile oval track opened in 1909. The qualifying speed record set by Arie Luyendyk, 5/11/1996, is 237.498 mph and that's really fast for holiday weekend traffic.

How colorful! You covered this huge event wonderfully..are the hotdogs winners? NellyBly · 2010-06-01: 13:11

Splendid ! 8 is my favourite josy63 · 2010-06-01: 15:25

Always wanted to go and have never made it! Your post made me feel like I was there! Great shots!! jeffcornish · 2010-06-01: 15:48

Wow, Joe! This is a great set that caught all the action and adventure of the Indy 500! I really love #6 & 7 - so good for Memorial Day! Did I hear that Franchitti won it this year? Wonderful post, my friend! djnana · 2010-06-01: 15:54

Oh wow! I don't think you can imagine how much I enjoyed your photos! This was one of the few years in my life where I missed the race, as I spent the weekend in the N. Carolina Mountains. I loved you commentary.... obviously you understand the race and that it is not just about a race but a whole tradition. As a Hoosier I have many memories of this spectacle in racing! thanks again! HoosierAtHeART · 2010-06-01: 20:12

Excellent! Shaparak · 2010-06-01: 22:23

it all looks so fun, makes me want to be there!!!~ urmysunshine · 2010-06-01: 22:28

great post! I really like #2 with the reflections in all the windows, and of course, the flag and planes are simply wonderful! SunflowerGirl · 2010-06-01: 22:44

Wow, I have always wanted to go there! Great set!! jennye · 2010-06-02: 01:56

Great set. I can feel the excitement! RayNvb · 2010-06-02: 06:00

Wonderful! love 5#! ????? · 2010-06-02: 07:21

Seems I missed this post! This looks like a great time. I grew up in a small town that had a dirt race track where we would spend every Friday night. Once upon a time I figured I'd end up in what was then called a "Powder Puff Derby"... ouch, can you imagine getting away with THAT these days?! DancingDolphin · 2010-06-02: 17:06

really nice shot..and thanks for sharing such nice info with gr8 pics. foxtalbot · 2010-06-09: 05:25