New Indy president, New Indy 500 start time ???

Changing Indy 500 start time not being discussed: For those hoping that the Indianapolis 500 might change its start time to encourage drivers to be able to do both the IndyCar Series race and the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Coca-Cola 600 on the same day, think again. Indianapolis Motor Speedway Corp. President and Chief Executive Officer Jeff Belskus, who oversees both the IRL and the race track, said Tuesday during a news conference at the track that he has had no discussions about changing the start time since taking over the position three weeks ago. The Indianapolis 500 start time likely would have to change from its recent 1 p.m. EDT slot for it to be possible for a driver to do both events. It would be hard for Lowe's Motor Speedway to start the NASCAR race later than 5:45 p.m. because of the length of the 600-mile race, which takes more than four hours to complete. With the crossover of open-wheel drivers to NASCAR - such as #14-Tony Stewart, #42-Juan Pablo Montoya, #7-Robby Gordon, #34-John Andretti and #77-Sam Hornish Jr. - heavy interest could be generated if drivers could do both races and rumors have circulated that the start time could be altered.From SceneDaily.

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Permalink Reply by GrayAntiMatter on July 25, 2009 at 6:11pm

If they're waiting for the on track product to improve, they're going to have to wait until the new engine/chassis hits the track (if it hits the track).

Having Cup drivers that people actually know and like on track would improve ratings. If for no other reason the curiosity.

Especially if a few of the bigger names did it.

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Permalink Reply by kevin watford on July 23, 2009 at 6:35pm

Double duty sure is alot of fun...went to the last one with RGM. Best Birthday ever!

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Permalink Reply by Chuck on July 24, 2009 at 3:47pm

Frankly, I'd prefer Monday. I don't think you'll see more than two guys try to pull double duty if they're on the same day for fear they don't get to Charlotte on time.