Two Winners, One Champion

On Sunday, two novelties occurred. Dario Franchitti garnered the Indianapolis 500. Casey Mears captured the Coca-Cola 600. Franchitti’s wife is Ashley Judd. Mears’ victory was his first.

Is Indianapolis irrelevant? The fabled legend needed glitter. Another heart stopping finish was required. Danica Patrick, another American, or an Andretti winning was craved. Instead, the Indianapolis 500 was rain shortened and delayed. Non-Americans owned and won the race. The event concluded opposite Charlotte’s commencement. Ultimately, the victor’s wife overshadowed the victor.

Following 155 starts, Mears recorded victory. Conversely, Patrick has accrued 36 starts. Yet, her expectations dwarf Mears’. Patrick has been labeled a tart and a failure. She is another woman who cannot win. Mears’ talent mirrors Patrick’s. Despite his struggling, no one berated him. Mears would win. The question was when?

NASCAR’s popularity is exploding. Indy Car’s esteem is nonexistent. The reasons are numerous. NASCAR’s drivers are personable. Their owners are colorful. Their machines mimic our own. Indy’s drivers are bland. Their owners are reclusive. Their machines are intricate and complex.

Indianapolis has stature. Unfortunately, reputation and age are synonymous. Our nation values youth. We value trends. We value relatable stars and scenarios. Indianapolis possesses none of these. Indianapolis is akin to the Kentucky Derby and the championship fight. All are viewed. However, the viewers are minimal.