Dual Starters Named For Indy 500
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowFor the first time in its more than 100-year history, the Indianapolis 500 will feature a duo waving the green flag to start the race. Actor Jake Gyllenhaal and Boston Marathon bombing survivor Jeff Bauman will serve as the honorary starters of the 101st Running of the Indy 500.
Bauman lost both of his legs in the 2013 blast while cheering on his girlfriend at the finish line. Gyllenhaal will portray Bauman in the film "Stronger," which is based on a book written by Bauman. The film is slated for release in September.
"We’re honored to welcome Jake Gyllenhaal and Jeff Bauman to send the field of 33 starters into Turn 1 for ‘The Greatest Spectacle in Racing,’" said Doug Boles, president of Indianapolis Motor Speedway. "It’s fitting that our fans will join Jake in honoring an incredible hero like Jeff on Memorial Day Weekend, as it’s a time when all Americans honor those who have made tremendous sacrifices for our nation."
INDYCAR has also released the official entry list for the 101st Running of the race. Among the entrants are seven former Indy 500 winners, including last year’s winner Alexander Rossi. He joins fellow champions Buddy Lazier, Juan Pablo Montoya, Helio Castroneves, Scott Dixon, Tony Kanaan and Ryan Hunter-Reay. Castroneves once again looks to become the fourth driver to win four Indy 500 titles.
This year’s race also features four rookies, including former Formula One champion Fernando Alonso, as well as Jack Harvey, Ed Jones and Zach Veach.
You can view the full entry list below:
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