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IRL Creates Guidelines For Indy 500 Driving Tests

26 February 1998

INDIANAPOLIS - The Indy Racing League has established guidelines to determine which drivers must take rookie and refresher tests in preparation for the 1998 Indianapolis 500 on May 24 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

There are four phases to the Rookie Orientation Program for the Indianapolis 500. Drivers must complete 10 laps within the designated speed range to pass each phase.

-- Phase One: 190-195 mph
-- Phase Two: 195-200 mph
-- Phase Three: 200-205 mph
-- Phase Four: Faster than 205 mph

The Refresher Program comprises Phases Three and Four of the Rookie Orientation Program.

ROOKIE ORIENTATION PROGRAM (ROP) GUIDELINES:

Any driver who has never driven in the Indianapolis 500 race must participate in the Rookie Orientation Program (ROP) on April 14-15 at the Speedway. If a driver is a licensed competitor in Formula One, NASCAR Winston Cup or CART, IRL officials will decide if that driver must participate in the ROP.

Any driver who has passed the IRL rookie test at another track or event but hasn't participated in the Indianapolis 500 still must participate in the ROP.

Rookie drivers must complete a minimum of the first three phases of the ROP during the April 14-15 track program to be considered eligible to participate in the 1998 Indianapolis 500. Rookies will be given an opportunity to finish their test May 10, opening day for the 1998 Indianapolis 500.

REFRESHER PROGRAM GUIDELINES:

Any Indianapolis 500 veteran who hasn't competed in an IRL race since May 1997 may need to complete a refresher test at the Speedway. IRL officials will determine which veteran drivers must take refresher tests. All refresher tests should take place during the Rookie Orientation Program, as IRL officials may not allow tests during May due to the busy schedule for the Indianapolis 500.

"We want to provide our drivers the best possible conditions to demonstrate their abilities to participate in the 82nd Indianapolis 500," IRL Executive Director Leo Mehl said.