Indy 500 Host Committee Names Honorary Co-Chairs

The 500 Gives Back Committee is a part of the 100th Running Host Committee.

The 500 Festival has named Roger Penske and best-selling author John Green honorary co-chairs of the 100th Running Host Committee for the Indianapolis 500. The host committee was created to "expand the reach and legacy of the 100th Running."

Green is an Indianapolis native whose works include "The Fault In Our Stars" and "Paper Towns," both of which have been made into feature films. Penske owns Team Penske racing, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary in motorsports this year. 

"Roger Penske has set the standard for motorsports excellence and is a tremendous ambassador for our sport," said Hulman & Company CEO Mark. "John Green is internationally-admired and a beloved member of our Hoosier community. We’re so thankful both of these individuals have signed on to support this effort."

The host committee includes 12 committees and 40 sub-committees and is comprised of hundreds of volunteers. Some of these committee initiatives are already underway, such as the Statewide Engagement Committee which has scheduled fan town halls throughout Indiana featuring leadership from Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The 500 Gives Back Committee will also have a grant application process available soon, which will fund community initiatives related to the 100th running.

"A Hoosier-driven host committee model works," said 500 Festival CEO Bob Bryant. "The Super Bowl 2012 Host Committee energized our entire community and produced a high-voltage and memorable celebration that heaped national acclaim upon our city and state. As we approach this historic milestone, it’s our intention to make this year’s celebration the biggest yet through the leadership and engagement of our community."

Click here for more information on the host committee and a list of upcoming events.