The Auto Channel
The Largest Independent Automotive Research Resource
The Largest Independent Automotive Research Resource
Official Website of the New Car Buyer

Indy 500 Crash Report, May 16: Jimmy Kite

16 May 1998

By Terry Callahan
The Auto Channel

Jimmy Kite
Jimmy Kite
INDIANAPOLIS: Pep Boys Indy Racing League driver Jimmy Kite crashed this afternoon during a qualification attempt for the 1998 Indianapolis 500.

Kite moved out of the groove in the middle of turn one at the Speedway. Kite did not spin. He demolished the left side of his race car as he slammed the wall hard. Kite then slid across the track and into the inside retaining wall at the entrance of turn two. Kite's car came to a rest in the grass in turn two.

Safety crews responded immediately. Kite was awake and alert at the scene. Safety crews assisted in removing Kite from the car. Kite was transported to the Clarian Medical Center. He is uninjured and cleared to drive.

Qualifications for the 1998 Indy 500 will began promptly at 11:00 today. Only drivers who qualify today will be eligible for the coveted pole position. Qualifying will conclude on Sunday. The 82nd Indy 500 will be May 24.

Editors Note: The images displayed in this article are available for larger viewing in The Racing Image Galleries and The Visions of Speed Art Gallery

.