Catchfence

IndyCar Series Returns to Richmond International Raceway June 26-27

Richmond, VA (May 26, 2009)—Got milk? IndyCar Series driver Helio Castroneves sure did after winning his third Indianapolis 500 this past weekend. Castroneves, who started from the pole, bested Dan Wheldon and Danica Patrick to capture the checkered flag, followed by a big swig of the celebratory milk in Victory Circle.

The IndyCar Series field will return to Richmond June 26-27 for the open-wheel spectacle at America’s Premier Short Track, as drivers reach speeds of 180 mph around the shortest track the series visits. On Saturday, June 27, Castroneves will look for another SunTrust Indy Challenge victory. He won the event in 2005. But he will face stiff competition from the rest of the IndyCar Series field. The weekend will also feature two USAC Series races and an autograph session with all of the IndyCar Series drivers.

Known as “Spiderman”—because he often scales the catchfence following a win—Castroneves led 66 laps at Indianapolis. Defending series champion Scott Dixon led 73 circuits. Patrick’s third-place finish was her career best at Indianapolis and marks the highest finish by a female driver on that track.

“A friend of mine sent me a message: ‘It would make a great Hollywood story. Win the race. Go get them,’” Castroneves said hours before the race. “I said, ‘Get ready for an Oscar.’”

The IndyCar Series returns to Richmond International Raceway June 26-27 for the fastest two days at America’s Premier Short Track. The event begins on Friday, June 26 with NBC12 Pole Qualifying for the IndyCar Series, an autograph session with all of the IndyCar Series drivers and the USAC Sprint Car Rotondo Weirich Showdown race. Friday’s general admission seats are $15. Saturday features the SunTrust Indy Challenge IndyCar Series race and the James River Grounds 100 USAC Silver Crown Series race. Saturday’s tickets are $35 (reserved) and $30 (general admission). Children 12 and under are admitted free with a ticketed adult in general admission seating on both nights. For tickets and information, please visit www.rir.com or call 866-455-RACE (7223).

- Richmond International Raceway, Press Release