LE MANS: Can the Prancing Horses gallop to another victory?

Will Ferrari “Three-peat”, or can somebody stop their dominance?

 

Somewhat feel like I’m going thru the motions here, since the annual running of the 24 Hours of Le Mans makes me think that summer is already done! Having nearly reached the zenith of another year’s increasing sunlight whilst pondering where did thoust Gory time go? As soon it’ll be time to put another log on the fire and the kettle on the boil!

 

Although I’ll admit that I do enjoy going thru the entire entry list and seeing what driver names I recognize…

 

This year’s running of the 93rd 24 Huers du Mans commences this Saturday, June 14th. And concludes the following day when  formula 1 races at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve and IndyCar races underneath the lights at Gateway. (World Wide Technology Raceway)

 

There’s a total of 62 entries in three classes. With le Crème de la Crème  Hypercar featuring 21 racecars. LMP2 with 17 entrants, and 24 LMGT3 Saloons.

 

The Hypercar category consists of eight marques, with four Cadillac V-Series.R and Porsche 963’s leading the way. Whilst la Scuderia, nee Ferrari has three of it’s dominating 499P’s entered. Followed by a further five manufacturers running the mandatory two car teams, i.e.; Alpine, Aston Martin, BMW, Peugeot and Toyota.

 

The Alpine A424, BMW M8 Hybrid, Cadillac v-Series.R and Porsche 963 all conform to the Le Mand Daytona Hybrid (LMDH) rules. While the Aston Martin Valkyrie, Ferrari 499P, Peugeot 9X8 and Toyota GR010 conform to the Le Mans Hypercar (LMH) rules.

 

Six of these eight chassis are propelled by varying displacement turbocharged engines, with only the Aston Martin and Cadillac being naturally aspirated. With the Valkyrie eschewing hybrid assistance to it’s glorious Cosworth V-12. While the Caddy’s 5.5-litre V-8 runs the spec LMHD hybrid component.

 

With the entire 62 car field racing under Balance of Performance (BoP) requirements. Along with the virtual “energy” tank storage and mandatory torque sensors.

 

And whilst the Porsche Penske 963 Panzerwagens have won four of five races in IMSA GTP competition to date. On thoust Gory Atlantic’s puddle side. It’s the Ferrari 499P that’s swept all three FIA World endurance Championship events leading up to Le Mans.

 

As the AF Corse No. 50 won at the season opening Qatar 1,812km round. Followed by the Seester’ No. 51 of James Calado, Antonio Giovinazzi and Alessandro Pier Guidi winning back-to-back at the Six Hours of Imola and Spa.

 

Whilst just learning that Ferrari swept the podium at Qatar and claimed a 1-2 finish at Spa, Momma Mia!

 

Ferrari is also aiming for a three-peat at Circuit de la Sarthe this year, having won the first two Hypercar class races the past two years. Seeing both the #51 victorious in 2023, and the #50 with Antonio Fuoco,Miguel Molina and Nicklas Nielsen the defending race winners.

 

Yet the entire field is made up of very strong competizione, as Y’all can never count out the Toyota’s. Whilst El Capitano’, nee Roger Penske dearly wishes to win Le Mans. One of the very few Jewell races He hasn’t won…

 

The Cadillac boyz’ should be up front, while the Alpine and Peugeot are both “Sleepers”. As the only unknown quantity is the Aston Martin, making it’s Le Mans debut, and therefore most likely just happy to finish the race. Although obviously they’ll be hoping for a good debut showing…

 

Almost forgot the BMW’s, with the No. 20 BMW finishing runner-up at Imola. As how could I overlook one of my favourites, i.e.; Kevn Bacon’ Magnussen in the No. 15 entry. While the M8 Hybrid has qualified on pole in IMSA GTP competition the first four races this season.

 

The LMP2 category features a race inside a race, with eight P2 entrants, and nine Pro Am (PA) entries. As the Pro Am class features one Bronze rated amateur driver.

 

Have already mentioned some of the IMSA competitors, while a few others that tripped my No. 4 wire are the No. 18 IDEC Sport with Jamie Chadwick, Andre Lotterer and Mathys Jaubert; Hyundai’s Genesiss Magna “Development” squad.

 

McLaren major domo Zakery Brown and Richard Dean’s United Autosport team is always strong with it’s Nos. 22-23 entries. Having won last year’s LMP2 class with it’s No. 22 entry driven by Oliver Jarvis, Nolan Siegel and Bijay Garg

 

Bad Arse Sports Car Ace Jarvis slots into the team’s No. 23 Pro Am entry this year, joined by ex-IndyCar driver Ben Hanley and Daniel Schneider. Whilst the Seester’ entry hosts a stout lineup which I’ve already mentioned in the previous No fenders IMSA Interlopers story.

 

The No. 25 Algarve Pro Racing entry sees “Teddy Porkchop”, aka Theo Pourchaire joined by Liechtenstein’s Matthias Kaiser and Spain’s Lorenzo Fluxa. As very happy to see that Pourchaire’s still racing, even though He should be in Indy Cars.

 

Last year’s LMP2 Pro Am category was won by AF course’s No. 183 entry, with Ben Barnicoat, Francois Perrodo and Nicolas Varrone. As Perrodo is the only holdover for this year’s entry, being joined by Antonio Felix da Costa and Matthieu Vaxivier.

 

While I’ll be rootin’ for the #199 AO by TF entry, which basically is an IMSA entry, with a stout lineup that I’ve previously mentioned. Although I don’t think it’ll be sporting any sort of Dinosaur teamed livery, Eh?

 

As I’ll split this mesmerizing story into two part harmony, and preview the LMGT3 class in a separate No Fenders post… 

LE MANS: Another Stout Saloons field prepares for Glory

But can anybody predict who’ll be this year’s winner?

 

Once again, this year’s 24 Heurs du Mans field sees the largest class being the LMGT3 category, with two dozen entrants headed by la Scuderia’s five Prancing Horses.

 

Corvette, Mercedes and Porsche have three entries apiece, with Aston Martin, BMW, Ford, Lexus and McLaren running two car squads.

 

In alphabetical order, here’s the nine manufacturers competing this year. With (2) Aston Martin Vantage AMR GT3 Evo, (2) BMW M4  GT3 Evo, (3) Chevrolet Corvette Z06 GT3.R, (5) Ferrari 296 GT3, (2) Ford Mustang GT3, (2) Lexus RC F GT3, (2) McLaren 720s GT3 Evo, (3) Mercedes-AMG GT3 Evo and (3) Porsche 911 GT3R LMGT3 contestants.

 

Manthey EMA with Richard Lietz, Morris Schuring and Yasser Shahin at the controls of it’s No. 91 Porsche 911 GT3R (992) are the defending LMGT3 class winners. Are we really surprised that another legendous’ 911 won again at Le Mans?

 

Ladies first, as how can you not cheer for the Femme Fatales Iron Lynx trio of Michele Gatting, Rahel Frey and Celia Martin in the No. 85 Porsche 911.

 

While Manthey returns with the Nos. 90 and 92 Porsche’s this year. With Lietz joined by Ryan Hardwick and Riccardo Pera in the #92 Manthey 1st Phorm entry.

 

The No. 10 Racing Spirit of Leman features Eduardo Barrichello, son of Rubino, aka Rubens Barrichello. Partnered by Derek DeBoer and Valitin Hasse-clot.

 

Suppose I’ll always root for the Heart of Racing team, even if it’s not the Team Seattle entity that inspired me. As the No. 27 Aston Martin features team boss Ian James, IMSA competitor Zacharie Robichon and Mattia Drudi.

 

Team WRT’s No. 46 BMW M4 Evo features The Doctor, aka Valentino Rossi in the cockpit, along with Ahmad Al Harthy and Kelvin van der Linde, older brother of Werks’ BMW Hypercar pilote Sheldon.

 

Having just learned thanks to For the Love of Indy’s Raymond Hando, that the Brothers van der Linde’s, along with Agusto Thumper’ Farfus won this year’s Bathurst 12 Hours race.

 

While I suppose it shouldn’t be a surprise that United Autosport will campaign a brace of factory McLaren 720s Evo’s. As the No. 95’s Sean Gelael and Marino Sato are the only drivers I recognize; both being ex-Formula 2 racers.

 

Naturally, I’ve never heard of Ziggo Sport – Tempesta before. As the UK based team will run somebody named Eddie Cheever III, alongside Chris Frogga and Jonathan Hui in it’s No. 193 Ferrari 296 GT3 entry. As the team competes in the GT World Challenge Europe series.

 

And although it’s not a straight knife fight, with three Corvettes ganging up against the two Ford Darkhorse Mustang’s. Not sure which two Corvette teams I’m more inspired by?

 

As AWA Racing from Up North Eh! Represents IMSA with it’s No. 13 entry, winner of this year’s Rolex 24 GTD class. Whilst TF Sport runs a two car FIA World Endurance championship (WEC) entry, with it’s Nos. 33 and 81

 

Texan Ben Keating who returns to the #33, was part of the 2023 LMGTE AM class winning #33 Corvette Racing entry with Nicolas Varrone and Nicky Catsburg. The car being campaigned by TF Sport in the final year of that category, so we know that TF Sport is a winning organization.

 

Proton Competition runs the Werks’ Mustang operation, with the Nos. 77 and 88. Which naturally I’ll be hoping can continue their winning ways. Having just beaten Corvette on their home turf in Downtown Detroit, albeit the IMSA Ford Multimatic No. 64 Stang’. As it’s too bad that one of Multimatic’s factory Mustang’s couldn’t be granted entry…

 

The race will be carried live flag-to-flag this weekend on Motor Trend TV, also available via IMSA Radio’s RS1/RS2 channels. Check your local listings for times and places. 

IMSA Interlopers Flock to Le Mans

As nearly the entire IMSA GTP throng is schlepping across thoust Bloody Puddle…

 

Following the Chevrolet Detroit Sports Car Classic race. According to IMSA Sports Car writer John Oreo’ Oreovicz, Thars’ a total of 18 out of 22 IMSA GTP drivers from the previous Detroit round contesting this year’s 93rd 24 Heurs du Mans. Which took awhile, but I did manage to find All of these IMSA GTP drivers

 

Hypercar

The No. 4 Porsche Penske Motorsport teams “third” Porsche 963 is comprised of Felipe Nasr, Nick Tandy and reigning Formula E Champion Pascal Wehrlein, making His Le Mans debut.

 

As Tandy and Nasr currently lead the IMSA GTP championship by some 70 markers over Porsche Penske Motorsport No. 6 IMSA teammates Mathieu Jaminet and Matt Campbell. With Jaminet joining Penske’s No. 5 Porsche 963 lineup, and Campbell in the No. 6 Porsche 963 FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) entry. With Penske fielding three Werks’ 963 Panzwrwagens once again.

 

Cadillac WTR sees Wayne Taylor Racing (WTR) running the No. 101 for the Taylor Brothers, i.e.; Jordan and Ricky, joined by longtime WTR driver Filipe Albuquerque aboard the Cadillac V-Series.r entry adorned in the classic Mobil 1 livery.

 

Action Express Racing’s (AXR) Whelen Engineering brings their Cadd-Oh-lac’ V-Series.R prototype to the Le Mans party. With Jack “Achey Breaky” Aitken, Felipe Drugovich and Frederik Vesti at the controls of the No. 311 Caddy’.

 

Werks’ BMW Hotschues’ Dries Vanthorr and Sheldon van der Linde will be aboard the BMW M8 Hybrid Nos. 15 & 20 respectively.

 

Ross Gunn and Roman De Angelis, pilotes’ of the only current FIA WEC Hypercar competing in IMSA GTP. Sees Gunn and De Angelis in the Aston Martin Thor Team’s #007 and #009 Aston Martin Valkyrie’s respectively.

 

Earl Bamber who co-drives with Aitken in IMSA GTP, also races for Hertz Cadillac Team Jota in WEC. As the Kiwi’ will join le Hamburgular’, nee Sealmeister B’, aka SeaBass or simply Sebastien Bourdais and Bloody Jense’, ergo 2009 F1 World Champion Jenson Button behind the wheel of the team’s No. 38 entry.

 

LMP2

The United Autosport #22 entry sees former IndyCar driver Pietro Fittipaldi joined by IMSA’s Meyer Shank Racing (MSR) Acura prototype driver Renger van der Zande and David Heinemeier.

 

The No. 24 Nielsen Racing entry sees MSR Acura prototype driver Colin Brown joined by fellow Yank’ Maveen Rao and Turkey’s Cem Bolukbasi.

 

Inter Europol Competition’s No. 34 Oreca 07 Gibson IMSA entry features Nick Boulle, former Dale Coyne Racing IndyCar driver Luca ghiotto and Jean-Baptist Simmenauer.

 

With the Seester’ #43 entry seeing the third MSR Acura IMSA GTP Hotschue’ Nick Yelloly at it’s controls. Partnered by Tom dillman and Jakub Smiechowski.

 

Rounding out MSR’s quartet of Acura IMSA GTP pilotes, Tom “The Bomb” Blomqvist is entered in the No. 37 CLX – Pure Rxcing entry. With co-drivers Tristan Turbo’ Vautier and Alex Malykhin.

 

IMSA competitor’s Algarve Pro Racing’s No. 45 fields a strong Pro Am lineup with Nicky Catsburg, George Kurtz and Alex Quinn behind the keyboard.

 

Another strong Pro Am entry is the #199 AO by TF entry with Dane Cameron, Lous Deletraz and team owner P. J. Hyett.

 

As the Pro Am Cup is a race inside a race of LMP2 competitors. With the Pro Am (Professional Amateur) driver lineup consisting of one Bronze rated driver.

 

LMGT3

Oh Kanaduh’s AWA Racing IMSA Corvette Z06 GT3.R #13 entry sees Matt Bel, Orey Fidani and Lars Kern behind the wheel.

 

The NO. 33 TF Sport Corvette Z06 racecar sees longtime IMSA “Gentleman” driver Ben Keating at the controls, alongside Daniel Juncadella and Johny Edgar, not Winter, Hya!

 

“Union Jack” Hawksworth returns to the Akkodis ASP #78 Lexus RC F GT3 entry, teamed with Finn gehrsitz and Arnold Robin.

 

And that’s just what I found during my initial cursory look over this year’s 24 Heurs du Mans entry list, which naturally is subject to change.

 

But it’s good knowing that IMSA is so well represented once again, as you’ll definitely need a scorecard to keep track of everybody! 

What Home Court Advantage?

As betcha Y’all thought I was talking about the Oakie Dokey thunder, EH?

 

Following the Indianapolis 500 a week later on the bumpy, lumpy, concrete canyon of the series shortest circuit on the Downtown streets of Detroit. A 1.645-mile, nine turn temporary street circuit always feels a Wee Bitamyte’ anti-climatic to Mwah. Although Thar was certainly action ah-Plenty!

 

Tuning into IMSA Radio Saturday, following IndyCar qualifying. I was bemused hearing John Hindhaugh announce the Noah’s Arc two-by-two lineup of the first three rows of the IMSA GTP prototype machinery. Being under the shadow of General Motors World HQ at the Renaissance Center, the two Acura’s locked out the front row. Followed by the two BMW’s and two Porsches. With the highest placed Cadillac being Jack “Achey Breaky” Aitken’s No. 31 Whelen Engineering mount in seventh. With the two Wayne Taylor Racing (WTR) Cadd-Oh-laccs’ in formation behind Aitken.

 

Yet the Chevrolet Detroit Sports Car Classic, the weekend’s first race, the 100 minutes (1hr 40mins) “Sprint” race certainly was spicy enough! As it looked like Porsche Penske Motorsport had played the Overcut strategy perfectly to get the GTP prototypes points leading No. 7 tandem of Nick Tandy, who’d handed off to Felipe Nasr once again into the lead. Seemingly enroute to it’s fourth victory of the series first five races. With it’s Seester’ No. 6 Posche 963 having won last time out at Laguna Seca…

 

Yet just south of fifteen minutes remaining, Ricky Taylor in the WTR Cadillac V-Series.R gave Nasr a solid Hip-check in Turn-3, the exact same turn Ricky had made the past last year to win aboard their Acura ARX-06 racecar…

 

Taylor’s Bump ‘n Run was devastating for Nasr, relegated to fourth place. With both Mathieu Jaminet’s#6 Porsche 963 and Renger van der Zande in the pole sitting Meyer Shank Racing’s (MSR) #93 passing the hapless Brazilian. As race control reviewed Ricky’s Bump ‘n run, but ruled no further action, with Hindhaugh saying you know that will now be in the back of Renger’s mind…

 

With some five minutes remaining, van der Zande made a brilliantly clean pass upon Taylor into Turn-1 for the lead, and went onto win! Breaking Porsche’s winning streak, along with being the first pole sitter, won by Nick Yelloly to win in 16 races. With Taylor coming home second, and Jaminet and Nasr in third and fourth respectively.

 

Meanwhile the GTD Pro “supporting” class was Hammers ‘n Tongs between Roxy, the pink AO Racing Dinosaur Porsche 911 and Pratt & Miller Corvette Z06 GT3.R swapping paint multiple times. Not to mention the Paul Miller Racing BMW M4 playing Argie Bargie’.

 

But it was the pole sitting Multimatic Ford Mustang No. 64 of Sebastian Priaulx and Mike Rocky’ Rockenfeller winning, not to mention that the two Ford Darkhorse Mustang’s had locked out the front row on Chevrolet’s playground. While the No. 3 Factory Corvette of Alex Simms and Antonio Garcia finished second, with the No. 9 Pfaff Motorsports Lamborghini Huracan claiming the podium’s final step.

 

Sunday’s Headlining Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix IndyCar race saw Andretti Global’s #26 Honda of Colton Herta on pole, with teammate Kyle Kirkwood third. While A.J. Foyt Enterprises David Malukas’s Dallara Chevrolet was the meat in the Andretti Global sandwich.

 

And although the race started clean, there was pitstop strategy, multiple cautions and even one red flag to keep us on the edge’s of our seats! As the scariest accident was when Louis Foster’s Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing’s front right suspension simply folded up upon itself on the high speed straight! With Foster simply being a passenger, which also collected Felix Rosenqvist’s MSR Honda.

 

Meanwhile, runaway points leader Alex Palou was heard saying sarcastically Great! Over His in-car radio after Malukas had centerpunched the Spaniard on a race restart! Ultimately seeing Palou listed P25 and His whopping points lead of 115 markers trimmed to 78-points over Kirkwood.

 

And although I was happy for Kirkwood winning, His fourth IndyCar career win, all coming on street circuits to date. I was more intrigued over Birthday Boy Santino Ferrucci hanging onto second place, with both Herta and Will Power giving chase.

 

Yet the Great Santini held onto the finish to capture His career best IndyCar result, surpassing His best of third place in the 2023 Indianapolis 500. Having just turned 27 the day before, which He celebrated by having a steak dinner…

 

Thus, since the race has returned to the Downtown Streets of Detroit in 2023, Honda has won all three IndyCar races. While their Seester’ luxury brand Acura has swept the Sports Car Classic race. Seeing Honda Racing winning All five events on GM’s home court!

 

Now much of the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar championship paddock will be off to Circuit de la Sarthe, for the June 14-15 running of this year’s 24 Heurs du Mans, while IndyCar will be hosting its first night oval race at Gateway the same weekend. Meaning that half of the year is already over, Yikes

 Update

Although the IndyCar Radio Network Booth Boyz’ Mark Gravelly’ James and Davey Hamilton were cornfuzed by apparently two different monitors giving conflicting results. One with Pato O’Ward second and the other with Kyle Kirkwood P2, they went with Kirkwood being second 78 markers adrift, which I just took for granted.

 

Yet now having looked at IndyCar’s championship standings, it lists the following. Alex Palou leads with 311 points, followed by O’Ward 90 points behind. (221 points) Kirkwood sits third, 102 behind. (209 points) Christian Lundgaard is fourth, 106 behind, (205 points( and Will Power rounds out the top five, 136 behind. (175 points)

 

Also following Detroit, during post race technical inspection, the second place No. 14 of Santino Ferrucci was afoul of the Driver’s minimum weight equivalency of 185lbs, although the chassis was 10lbs over it’s minimum weight requirement. Thus, both Ferrucci and A.J. Foyt enterprises No. 14 entry were docked 25 points, and a $25,000 fine. Along with forfeiting the second place prize money, points and bonus points for leading laps, but get to keep their second place finish.

INDY 500: Before roger, there was Moore

Blue Crown Spark Plug Special racecar. (Image source: Bing.com)

 

As that’s definitely not a  “Shaken, not Stirred” intended pun. Get it?

 

Like much past history I try delving into here upon No Fenders. Even after having finished my monstrous six part Blue Crown Spark Plug Saga Wayback in Gory 2009. The year of my debutante Indianapolis 500 race, where some pesky Brazilian was making His own history following a tax trial, I still feel like I know only the rudimentary facts about Lou Moore…

 

Lewis Henry Moore was born on September 12, 1904 in Hinton, Oklahoma, before His family migrated to California. Reportedly at age 16, He became a mechanic and started building and racing cars, having bought an old Ford Model T.

 

Moore made His rookie debut at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in 1928, qualifying eighth and finishing runner-up behind Louis Meyer for that year’s 16th running of the Indianapolis 500.

 

Moore’s crowning accomplishment as a driver was winning the 1932 Indianapolis 500 pole. Along with His second place finish, He scored a brace of third place finishes between 1933-34.

 

Interestingly, Moore also competed in the 1934 Tripoli Grand Prix, held on May 6th that year. With this Formula Libre event being won by the great Achille Varzi aboard an Alfa Romeo Tipo-b P3. With Moore finishing seventh in a Miller 3.0-litre racecar.

 

Yet Moore is best known for his racing exploits as a team owner, beginning in 1937, after having retired from driving the year prior.

 

More entered one car for Mauri Rose in 1937, which finished 18th, retiring with an oil line failure.

 

The following year, His entry for driver Floyd Roberts won the first of His eventual five victories as a car owner. Yet sadly, Roberts was killed in the 1939 Indy 500 aboard the same car.

 

Mauri Rose drove once again for Moore, finishing third in the 1940 race at the Brickyard. Following the race, Lucy O’Reilly Shell sold Her two Ecurie O’Reilly Maserati 8CTF’s to Lou Moore.

 

For 1941, Moore entered an unprecedented four racecars at the Speedway, with the two Elgin Piston Pin Maserati’s driven by Rose and Duke Nalon. While a further two Wetteroth Offy’s (Offenhauser) were entered as the Noc-Out Hose Clamp Specials for Floyd Davis and Cliff Bergere.

 

Rose would start from pole aboard His No. 3 Maserati, before retiring on lap-60 due to spark plug issues. Moore then inserted Mauri into the hapless Floyd Davis’s No. 16 Wetteroth Offenhauser entry and the rest was history, with Rose winning the race, while Davis was nowhere to be found afterwards…

 

For 1946, Moore didn’t enter any racecars and moonlighted as Cliff Bergere’s chief mechanic. Interestingly, this was the ex-Floyd Roberts 1938 winning Champ Car, and Bergere claimed His one and only Indy 500 pole aboard it that year, before finishing an unheralded P16. As the Noc-Out Clamp racecar ironically was listed as Out of Oil…

 

The year’s 1947-49 cemented Moore’s legacy as a winning team owner, when His Blue Crown Spark Plug front wheel drive Diedt Offenhauser “Specials” won the race an unprecedented three years in-a-row.

 

The 1947 race saw “the thrill of Victory, and Agony of defeat”. As rookie Bill Holland led a dominant 143-laps and was leading when confused by Lou Moore hanging out an EZ sign for both drivers.

 

And while Holland was cruising to victory at reduced speed, He simply waved to teammate Mauri rose, who He thought was unlapping Himself on lap-193. With Rose going onto claim His second Indianapolis 500 victory, to Holland’s disbelief!

 

Rose won again in 1948, leading another 1-2 Blue Crown Spark Plug sweep. And then in ’49, Holland was circumspect when the EZ sign came out once again while leading. As Rose was disobeying team orders again, yet this time His magneto packed-up with eight laps remaining and Holland finally won at Mother Speedway. And Moore fired Rose immediately following the race.

 

Thus Moore not only had won five Indianapolis 500 race’s, but became the first ever team owner to win three consecutive events. A feat that has only been accomplished once more by Team Penske between 2001-03.

 

Meanwhile, Moore’s legacy as the winningest Indy 500 team owner stood for 38 years until El Capitano’, nee Roger Penske won His sixth Borg Warner trophy in 1987. While we all know that Roger and Team Penske have gone onto win a staggering total of 20 Indianapolis 500’s between 1972 and 2025.

 

To read my very long, detailed Mega six parts Blue Crown Spark Plug Specials Saga, with pictures provided by Dean Jackson. Whose father Purvis was the proprietor of Blue Crown Spark Plugs, please visit the following No Fenders link below.

 

http://www.nofenders.net/2012/05/blue-crown-spark-plug-specials-saga.html

 

Aftermath

Lou Moore died at the age of 51 on March 25, 1956. Complaining of a headache, Moore was rushed to hospital where He died of a brain hemorrhage, according to the Indianapolis Star.

 

Ironically, I just listened to Marshall Pruett’s podcast with Ed Justice Jr, who dryly noted that Lou Moore was considered the “Roger Penske” of His day, but wasn’t Roger!

 

Chip Ganassi, who just won His sixth Indianapolis 500 as a team owner, took 66 years to surpass the great Lou Moore’s accomplishment! While Andretti Global remains tied with Moore for five wins apiece… 

PRM: First Time Winner

2023 Shell V-Power Nitro+ IndyCar. (The Tomaso Collection)

 

Front view of Josef Newgarden’s 2023 Team Penske Indianapolis 500 winner, replete with de riggour Aeroscreen.

 

(Photo C/O No Fenders Blogmeister Miguel) 

PRM: Josef Newgarden’s 2023 Indy 500 winner

Side view of Shell V-Power Nitro+ Dallara DW12 Chevrolet. (The Tomaso Collection)

 

Here’s Josef Schlick’ Newgarden’s 2023 Team Penske chassis, winner of the 107th Indianapolis 500 on display in Scottsdale.

 

(Photo C/O No Fenders Blogmeister Miguel)         

PRM: Menards Magic

Menards 2019 Dallara DW12 Chevrolet. (The Tomaso Collection)

 

Front view of Simon Pagenaud’s 2019 Menards Team Penske IndyCar. Winner of the 103rd Indianapolis 500.

 

(Photo C/O No Fenders Blogmeister Miguel) 

PRM: Simon Pagenaud’s Indy 500 winner

Side view of Menards 2019 Indianapolis 500 winner. (The Tomaso Collection)

 

Here’s Simon Pagenaud’s bright, neon green Menards 2019 Indianapolis 500 winner on display in Scottsdale. As Symone’, nee Pageantry’ (Simon Pagenaud) gave John Menard His debutante Indy 500 winners ring, after forty years of frustration!

 

Long ago Bruce Martin story on John Menard’s path to finally claiming victory in the Indianapolis 500.

 

https://www.indycar.com/News/2019/05/05-29-BMartin-John-Menard

 

(Photo C/O No Fenders Blogmeister Miguel) 

PRM: Red Menace

Verizon Dallara DW12 Chevrolet IndyCar. (The Tomaso Collection)

 

On display at the Penske Racing Museum this March, sat DJ WillyP’s, aka Will Power’s shiny red Verizon racecar He drove to victory at the final Belle Isle IndyCar race in 2022, along with winning that year’s Astor Cup aboard.

 

(Photo C/O No Fenders Blogmeister Miguel) 

Traipsing thru the Penske Racing Museum, Again

Scott McLaughlin’s 2018 Supercars Championship winning Ford Falcon on display in Scottsdale. (The Tomaso Collection)

 

As no jokes about ScottyMac’ needing His Ford Falcon to bounce off the walls at Mother Speedway. Or Team Penske’s travails during Ye Month ‘O May…

 

In what’s become a cherished tradition during every visit to The Valley of The Sun, once again your Humble No Fenders Scribe Tomaso was blissfully ensconced in the Penske Racing Museum this past March.

 

Some three weeks plus after my latest visit, I suddenly found myself wondering if my recollection of my inaugural visit was correct? To which I’m happy to say it was fairly spot-on nearly twenty years later. Albeit it was actually November 30, 2005 when I first set foot inside the Penske Racing Museum thanks solely to Blogmeister Miguel taking me there. Having seen El Capitano talking to Ye ‘Ol Windbag Dave Despain on Wind Tunnel the same year from the museum…

 

Although it slays me now, I guess I really shouldn’t be surprised that I launched a nine page story on my first visit to la Museo some 13yrs ago. For which if you’re inclined. Whale’ Yuhs better be Damn well inclined or comfy if you’re gonna read All Gory 4,253 words written in Thy No Fenders Post, Aye Karumba!

 

http://www.nofenders.net/2012/04/penske-racing-museum-inaugural-visit.html

 

Arriving at 1PM, Blogmeister Miguel and I accidently walked into the adjoining Aston Martin dealership, where we were immediately met by a friendly Salesman curtly asking if He could help us? To which Miguel seeing the rest of our party waving at us thru the glass walls, said I guess the museum is next door…

 

The first IndyCar chassis encountered was Josef Schlick’ Newgarden’s 2023 Indianapolis 500 winner. Followed by His 2017 Championship winning mount. Other various IndyCars sat on display, including two Norton Gould Rick Mears cars. Mears 1984 No. 6 “Yellow Submarine” Indy 500 winner. Whilst Snowbyrd MJ’ read to me the information plaque upon Tom sneva’s racecar that He set the first official 200mph lap at the Brickyard in.

 

Gil de Feran’s 100th race winning Reynard/Honda resplendent in Team Penske’s long standing Marlboro white with Dayglo red also graced the museum’s main floor. Being the car that won El Capitano His “Ton” of IndyCar victories, becoming the first ever IndyCar team to do so.

 

Along with Newgarden’s 2023 Indianapolis 500 winner, there were a further three chassis I’d never “seen” before. One being the red No. 12 Verizon of Will Power, the Aussie’s 2022 mount that He won the final Detroit Grand Prix on Belle Isle, along with that year’s Astor Challenge Cup aboard. Nee 2022 IndyCar Series title.

 

Both Blogmeister Miguel and Artiste Dave were “wowed” by and audaciously bright neon lime green IndyCar bellowing to Symone’, nee Pageantry’, aka Simon Pagenaud. Being Simon’s 2019 Menard Indianapolis 500 winner.

 

The fourth and final “New” car that initially stumped me as Snowbyrd MJ’ said it was the #17 of ScottyMac’s, Huh? Turned out to be Scott McLaughlin’s No. 17 Ford Falcon FG X racecar that He campaigned for FordDJR Team Penske between 2017-18. The last Falcon model raced Down Under in V-8 Supercars.

 

As it makes sense that the car that Mclaughlin first came tantalizingly close to winning the 2017 Supercars Championship with, and then securing the first of His three consecutive Supercars titles in 2018 with, is now proudly on display in Scottsdale.

 

https://www.v8sleuth.com.au/mclaughlin-reunites-with-first-supercars-title-winner/

 

Also, initially I was Cornfuzed’ over why Newgarden’s 2023 Indy 500 winner wasn’t the same chassis that He used to repeat winning in 2024? And I still hadn’t figured it out some three weeks later, until No Fenders Offical’ Photographer Carpets came up with a close answer. Whale’, at least He pointed Mwah in the right direction…

 

Having “read”, err listened to the IndyStar’s article on the gala reopening of the IMS Museum, which includes the Penske Gallery. Replete with the 1988, 1994, 2009 and 2024 Indianapolis 500 winning chassis on loan. Along with Penske Racing’s first Indianapolis 500 entry, Mark Donohue’s 1969 Lola T152. And the winner from El Capitano’, aka roger Penske’s very first trip to Mother speedway in 1951.

 

Do Y’all know the answer to this riveting trivia question? Time’s up, put them pencils down…

 

Yep, that’s right, the 2024 Dallara DW12 chassis featured the new for that season’s Hybrid Energy Recovery System, (ERS) adding some 100lbs to the ageless DW12 racecar. Having made it’s 200th start at St Pete one year ago!

 

Although IndyCar didn’t introduce the Hybrid ERS system until Mid-Ohio in July, 2024. I’m 86% certain that the 2024 Dallara DW12 was decked out with the new magnesium bell housing/transmission casing and other ERS ancillaries, minus the ERS unit…

 

Hence, Arse-suming this Dallara DW12 also included the auxiliary “plumbing” systems. Most notably the right hand side ERS cooling radiator, that Chevrolet teams used the “blocker” plate , louver or whatever they’re called at the Thermal Club this year to negative effect. When the increased temperature sent the ERS into “limp” mode to preserve itself from overheating!

 

Or was it simply the fact that I heard sometime this May that Penske simply pulls every Indianapolis 500 winner out of service for posterity’s sake to be displayed in perpetuity?

 

Naturally, as time marches on, and we’ve just wrapped up another vaunted “Month of May”. Especially with how crazy this year’s race was! I’m beginning to forget what else was on hand? Although I know Mark Donohue’s 1973 IROC Porsche 911 Carrera RSR was there. Along with El Capitano’s 1963 Catalina NASCAR Tintop’.

 

Whilst Snowbyrd MJ’ told me that the 1972 Hurst Oldsmobile Pace Car was on display. Although I don’t remember if Donohue’s 1972 McLaren M16 Sunoco Indy 500 winner was on display?

 

And although I knew it wouldn’t be there, I was still disappointed that one of the Porsche Penske Motorsports Porsch 963’s weren’t present. Then again, Id Arse-sume that the All conquering No. 7 will once day in the future grace the Penske Racing Museum.

 

And that’s just a slice of what was Thar’, since I didn’t even mention Joey “Sliced bread” Logano’s 2015 Daytona 500 winning Pennzoil Ford fusion, or All of the “Eye Candy” outside the museum… 

Trying to Follow IndyCar is a Hard Job!

Y’all know what’s Ah-comin’ Righto? Can You Hear Me Now Racer and IndyCar Radio Network?

 

In what seems to be a fitting nod to the now concluded “Month of May”, why would I have expected anything less?

 

On Monday, May 12th, Y’all may be aware of Racer launching it’s “New & Improved” website, which for Mwah, now no longer adequately works! As why would you do this two weeks before the biggest IndyCar race of the year, and the day before Indianapolis 500 practice began?

 

Being a Blind Motorsports Fan and having “read: Racer.com for the past dozen-plus years, which I rely on for my daily racing news. I utilize Zoomtext Fusion 2025 screen reading software to read the internet and All things electronic, i.e.; email, word, etc.

 

Thus,  I’m guessing whatever you’ve done in the coding of your new website isn’t compatible with my screen reader. As it now says button when I “click” on the IndyCar section, (for example) which never happened before.

 

And then after I have to play jump with whatever comes up next, needing to tab to get past whatever it is? All of the subject titles simply say Article page. And below that says Authors profile page for the entire current page, Huh?

 

The same issue occurs when I select the F1, IMSA, etc. “button”, meaning I have zero idea what Any of the articles on the entire website are about? And I really do not wish to spend my time playing guess what this mystery article is?

 

If this information is now a graphic? Then my screen reader would be unable to read it, for which I don’t think this should be done. And I have the exact same issues in either Microsoft Edge or Firefox/Mozilla web browsers, which once again makes me think it’s a coding issue.

 

Guessing I’m the only person having this issue? As all I know is that Racer’s previous website worked perfectly and “interfaced” with my screen reader. As something’s obviously happened! Since this is the only website on Ye Intrawoods I have this issue with, Urgh!

 

Then there’s the whole month’s issues of IndyCar Radio and IndyCar Radio Network’s pathetic sound quality, which I tired of quickly and didn’t bother venting my frustrations previously, since after all, it’s the world’s greatest racetrack. Uhm what is it? Speak Up sonny! Did Yuhs say something about a Firetruck?

 

The horrible sound quality issues began with the IndyCar tune-up race on the road course during Mothers Day weekend. As not only was the “Stereo” sounds quality strange, like inside of a tin can. You also could never hear what the pit reporters were saying when talking to a driver. But you could hear them talking over the intercom completely, i.e.; Rob Blackman saying I’ll go talk to Ferrucci, etc. Not to mention the Booth Boys cracking jokes during the commercial breaks, with Nicky Salt’ Yeoman enjoying Davey Hamilton’s One-liner…

 

This same, pathetic and annoying turn up, down rinse, lather, repeat volume issue persisted throughout Indianapolis 500 practice, whenever I did try bothering to tune-in. Although thankfully I was busy the first two-plus days. And then I just turned off IndyCar Radio during Fast Friday since this was so G-Damn Annoying! As you’d think they’d have been able to fix this by Fast Friday, El Correctomundo?

 

Huh, what did you say Alex Wolff? Oh, what’s that Firetruck doing in Gasoline Alley? You did say Firetruck, Eh?

 

Resorted to my old “trick” of listening to Indy 500 Qualifying upon The Fan’s 1070AM Tune In weblink, which was much better. But hey, if you thought FOX had too many Adverts’, (commercials) then Y’all better not listen to IndyCar via The Fan!

 

Also do not understand why The Fan needs to drop the IndyCar Radio Network coverage for three hours during the middle of Indy 500 qualifying? Since they just put on some B-Team instead, so I jumped back to Indycar.com’s strangled radio webcast instead before simply completely tuning out until 1PM Pacific when Mark Gravelly’ James and Zach Veach returned to the Airwaves…

 

Sunday’s final qualifying day’s coverage was much better on The Fan, which I only bothered beginning with during the Fast Twelve Shootout, so naturally was astounded over ScottyMac’, aka Scott McLauglin destroying His primary Yellow Submarine Speedway car during morning practice, Youza! Before the unbelievable Team Penske Attenuator Shenanigans…

 

Naturally, I thought the sound issue qualities would have been ironed out by Race Day, Stee-rike! Since just like the race itself unfolding into two parts. The radio broadcast sound issues persisted thru the entire first half of the race, as I repeatedly jumped back ‘n forth between IndyCar Radio and 1070AM The Fan with barely any improvement between either site, Groan! As I even tried tuning into IndyCar Radio Network’s newest member’s station KALL, in Salt Lake City Utah to no avail!

 

As it’s Uber annoying that Mark James never, ever mentions any West Coast radio stations, with the exception of Hawaii having been mentioned in the past. Whilst I couldn’t find a listing of IndyCar Radio Network affiliates…

 

So I just spent nearly the first half of the race constantly scooting up closer to my Confuzers Bitchin’ Soundbar speakers, along with jacking up and then back down after the turn announcers were yelling over the race cars sound modulation, Sigh!

 

And then just like the race “settled” down, suddenly The Fan’s sound quality improved immeasurably and I was able to listen the rest of the way without constantly adjusting the volume. With my only complaint being after the litany of Commercials run Ad Nauseum, Seriously? You had to go to another Freakin’ commercial break with twelve laps remaining, and not returning to the race until only eight laps to go, WTF!

 

Yeah, being Blind, I’m definitely a Card carrying member of les Miserables, Hya!

 

Now, stay tuned for the G-r-R-Reatest Spectacle in, Oh Never Mind… 

INDY 500 Race Day prediction

Will Felix Rosenqvis’ts “Life change today, Tears of Joy on His Face and With Arms Wide Open” driving this Creed racecar?  (The Tomaso Collection

 

As who besides Hulio’ and Schlick’ will be making History today?

 

It’s what all of us lowly, basement dwelling Bloggers and Bench Racers do each and every year…

 

As once again I found myself choosing who my pool of Indianapolis 500 winners were following the Alabama IndyCar race, and prior to the Indy road course outing. For which I could only come up with the following ten names.

 

Andretti Global: Colton Herta and Marcus Ericsson; Arrow McLaren: Pato O’Ward and Christian Lundgaard; Chip Ganassi Racing: Scott Dixon and Alex Palou; Ed Carpenter Racing: Alexander Rossi and Team Penske: Josef Newgarden, Scott McLaughlin and Will Power. As those are the ten true Contendahs’ for Mwah, prior to Fast Friday.

 

Although I’d have to say that Herta’s chances took a major dent with that frightening Qualifying Day crash!

 

This  year seems to be the least prepared, least excited I’ve been about the Indianapolis 500 in years, albeit perhaps I say that every year I get older, Eh? I said speak up Sonny, Hya!

 

Don’t take any stock in the Open test from April, other than as Soctt Dixon eluded to, this year’s debut of the much dreaded Hybrid Energy Recovery system (ERS) is a definite wildcard. Especially since we don’t know how it will fare over 200 laps of repeated use…

 

Whom shalt thoust  Lady Luck, Err Mother Speedway choose today to drink milk in victory lane? Uhm ride the victory elevator to the stage high above the adoring crowd, for everyone to see in rapture, having just won the 109th running of this year’s Indianapolis 500…

 

My top Cinderella story pick is thee great Santini’, ergo Santino Ferrucci winning in the No. 14 and ‘Ol SuperTex’, nee A.J. Foyt celebrating victory again!

 

My second choice is Felix-the-Cat’, (Rosenqvist) as Hulio’s Cactus, and Ain’t gonna win number five, so put a Fork in it!

 

Initially, my third sentimental pick was Taku-san’, nee Takuma Sato becoming a three times winner. But I’ve changed that to Alexander Rossi, who I think desperately needs a second win at Mother Speedway to secure His place as a great IndyCar driver, who’s career appears to be on a down glide scope. Then again, you could say ditto for Marcus Ericsson, Eh?

 

Whilst don’t know why, but before practice started Tuesday, my initial pick for winner was Scott Dixon. Who I think is definitely flying underneath the radar this year, especially with that No. 10 teammate of His winning everything in site! And I still felt this way prior to Friday’s Carb Day final practice session. Even if Palou was fastest during Monday’s post qualifying practice session.

 

Will Power seems to be another stout choice, while forget All of the chatter over Josef Schlick’ Newgarden winning three consecutive races, which Ain’t gona happen!

 

All of which was before Sunday’s Attenuator Gate Shenanigans!

 

Had to go Wayback’ for the following statistics. As of the 2008 Reunification, only three Indy 500 pole winners have won the race: Scott Dixon, 2008; Helio Castroneves, 2009 and Simon Pagenaud, 2019. And only one rookie has won on debut, i.e.; Alexander Rossi in 2016.

 

Whilst No Fenders Offical’ Photographer Carpets’ told me that 23 of the last 25 winners have come from just four teams, i.e.; Andretti Global, Chip Ganassi Racing, Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing and obviously, Team Penske.

 

Bryan Herta Autosport, 2011 with Dan Wheldon and KV Racing Technology in 2013 with Tony Kanaan are the only non “big four” team winners. Meaning the deck’s stacked upon the field once again this year, Sigh!

 

As suppose I wasn’t going out on a limb predicting that pole would be between Alex Palou and Scott Mclaughlin on Saturday Night. With my nod going to ScottyMac’ in the “Yellow Submarine”. Although that means the Odds are against Him winning…

 

Of course that was before I learned that ScottyMac’ had destroyed His primary car during the Fast Twelve morning’s practice with No possibility of getting the backup chassis prepared in time, Youch!

 

Then there were the two savage crashes of Colton Herta and Marcus Armstrong on Saturday! Plus Takuma Sato destroying His Dallara DW12’s tub during the Open test. Along with Kyffin Simpson trashing His racecar and going airborne during Fast Friday practice! All before we get to the Penske Attenuator Cheating scandal; Can Y’all say gorilla Glue?

 

Sato impressed as Always in Qualie’. As Nicky Salt’ Yeoman quipped during the Fast Twelve Shootout He was convinced that Taku-san’ could qualify a Shopping Cart! As Sato rolls off P2 Sunday.

 

Can Y’all tell I’m stalling? Since I’m struggling over my pick between my Numero Uno IndyCar driver Pato Who? As Patricio O’Ward’s interview following the Fast Twelve Shootout just made me smile over His trying to explain the euphoric feeling of satisfaction of driving these Narly racecars!

 

Verses my head telling me still Scott Dixon who starts fourth, even though I obviously prefer O’Ward starting third, His best Indy 500 qualifying result. I just don’t know how many times you can be the Bridesmaid before winning?

 

And surely Alex Palou will factor into the conversation, while I’d guess you have to say Felix-the-Cat’ (Rosenqvist) is a Dark Horse pick.

 

Ok, even though I think it’s gonna be Dixon, I’ll choose my main man Pato O’ward as the winner of this year’s Indianapolis 500.

 

(Photo C/O No Fenders Offical’ Photographer Carpets’)