Brad Keselowski wins the Inaugural Indy 250, followed by teammate Sam Hornish Jr. Both are members of Penske Racing.
Car owner Roger Penske finally wins a stock car race at the famed Indianapolis Motor Spreedway where he has had so much success in Indy Car racing.
“I’ve been watching races here since I was a kid in Michigan,” said Keselowski. “Everyone knows how special Indy is and any win that you can have here, whether it’s the Indy 500 or the Brickyard here tomorrow, the first Nationwide race, every race is special.”
Roger Penske was not on hand to watch to special victory. He is in London at the Olympics.
“I am glad to do it for Roger [Penske],” said Keselowski. “I’m sure he’s watching [on television].”
The win is also Roger Penske’s 100 win in NASCAR racing.
Kyle Busch jumped pole sitter Kasey Kahne to lead the first Nationwide Series race lap at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Busch dominated large portions of the race, leading 51 of the first 75 laps.
Keselowski kept Busch in sights all race.
“Kyle was really, really, fast. He had a great car,” said Keselowski. “We got through traffic and had better pit stops.”
After the last race caution, Keseloski was able to come out second following Nationwide series points leader Elliott Sadler. But Sadler was black flagged for jumping the start. This gave the lead to Keselowski who never looked back.
Sam Hornish, former Indy 500 winner for Roger Penske finished second.
“Super happy for Brad [Keselowski],” said Hornish. “I wanted to win. There is only chance to win the Inaugural race.”
Ty Dillon racing in only his second Nationwide Series had a very impressive run, finished in third.
“Our goal is to have fun and show people what we are made of,” said Dillon.
Keselowski’s win was his 20th victory in NASCAR Nationwide Series races. It is his third vicotry and 10th top-10 in 2012. In post race interviews Keselowski was very retrospective of his historic win.
“The Brickyard means so much,” said Keseloswki. “It is special place and I am glad to be a small part of the history. I would like to be a big part of history tomorrow winning the Brickyard 400 – race double.”
Notes:
On lap 40, Danica Patrick hit Reed Sorenson entering Turn 1, causing Sorenson to do half-spin to the right. Sorenson’s spinning car collected Patrick and both cars hit SAFER barrier exiting Turn 1. There was heavy damage to Patrick’s car and she could not continue the race. She finished in 35th position. Sorenson was able to continue and finished 33.
Story by: Kevin Proot
Photos by: Larry Vancil and Kevin Proot
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