INDYCAR Driver Visits Congress

Speaker of the House Paul Ryan and Verizon IndyCar Series Driver Ryan Hunter-Reay

The nation’s capital got a taste of the "Greatest Spectacle in Racing" Tuesday. Former Indianapolis 500 winner Ryan Hunter-Reay toured Capitol Hill along with the Borg-Warner Trophy.

Hunter-Reay, who won the Indy 500 in 2014 and the Verizon IndyCar Series Championship in 2012, met with members of Congress, including Speaker of the House Paul Ryan (R-Wisc.). He called the trip a "huge honor."

"It was something new to me," said Hunter-Reay. "I was surprised by the amount of interest in the Indy 500 and the Borg-Warner. I appreciate the House of Representatives for having us and celebrating one of America’s greatest traditions, the Indy 500. It was cool taking it all in and it is one of those experiences that you relish. This is a very proud moment for me, as an American (Indianapolis 500) winner in our nation’s capital with the powers that be discussing the Indy 500 and the road to victory."

Hunter-Reay also met with Rep. Andre Carson (D-7), whose district includes the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. He was also scheduled to meet with representatives from other districts where Verizon IndyCar Series races are held. 

The visit was one of many ways in which INDYCAR is gearing up for the 100th running of the Indianapolis 500. The historic race will be held May 29.