INDY FANFEST OPENS MAY 10 AT IMS Two New Attractions Added to Theme Park's Stable

INDIANAPOLIS, May 2, 1996 -- Construction for Indy FanFest, the free, racing-oriented theme park at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, is already underway in preparation for its May 10 opening date. Occupying more than 215,000 square feet of space next to the Hall of Fame Museum in the legendary track's infield, Indy FanFest will feature two new attractions and many popular returning activities in its Indianapolis 500 entertainment line-up.

New to Indy FanFest is True Value's Indy on the Air, a recreation of a television broadcast center in which fans can record play-by-plays of famous Indy 500 moments, such as the closest finish ever between Al Unser Jr. and Scott Goodyear in 1992, on a keepsake videotape. Other famous moments include Roberto Guerrero's record-setting qualifying run in 1992; the bittersweet battle between Emerson Fittipaldi and Al Unser Jr. in 1989; and the 40-lap duel for the checkered flag between Gordon Johncock and Rick Mears in 1982. Between takes, fans can watch continuous replays of previous Indianapolis 500 action on state-of-the-art video screens.

Audience participation and live demonstrations highlight Coors Pit Row, another new Indy FanFest attraction. Emcees use displays of actual equipment to recreate an Indianapolis-style pit stop, one of the most important factors of race day competition. All the pieces are then put together in an intense, fast-paced film that shows the pit stop as it happens in split-second time.

Gasoline Alley, located at the heart of Indy FanFest, will also feature new tenants this year. Among them is video game company Sega, featuring the interactive Indy 500 racing game with mock cars in which fans can race against each other on cutting-edge screens. Also featured is a unique car display from the Hall of Fame that celebrates "100 Years of the American Automobile."

Popular returning attractions include Goodyear Victory Lane, Kodak Mini Indy, Firestone Legendary Moments Theater and FanFest Marketplace. Indy FanFest will also again feature continuous live entertainment in Pennzoil Park, scheduled Indy 500 driver autograph sessions and a selection of international foods and collectible merchandise.

Volunteers are still needed to help staff Indy FanFest throughout its 11-day run. To apply, interested individuals and groups may contact the 500 Festival's Volunteer Hotline, 317/237-3414.

Indy FanFest is open to the public May 10-13 (first qualifying weekend), 17-19 (second qualifying weekend) and 23-26 (Carburetion Day through Race Day). Admission to Indy FanFest is free with admission to the Speedway grounds.