U.S. Census Bureau Recognizes IMS Centennial Era

INDIANAPOLIS, Wednesday, March 25, 2009: As home to three of the most prestigious races in the world, the Indianapolis 500 Mile Race, the Allstate 400 at the Brickyard and the Red Bull Indianapolis GP, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway has been recognized by the U.S. Census Bureau for its place in automotive and motorsports history.

In 2008, Indianapolis Motor Speedway executives announced a three-year celebration called the Centennial Era marking the 100th anniversary of the legendary facility in 2009 and the 100th anniversary of the Indianapolis 500 in 2011.

On May 24, 33 drivers will take the green flag to start the 2009 Indianapolis 500, which will be the first race in the Centennial Era.

In addition to its three annual motorsports events, the Speedway is playing host to the three-day Centennial Era Balloon Festival presented by AT&T Real Yellow Pages on May 1-3, 2009, to celebrate the first event organized at the Speedway – gas-filled balloon races in June 1909. Speedway officials also are planning the Centennial Era Concours d’Elegance for June 18-20, 2010. The event, featuring vintage and classic machinery, will celebrate the significance of vehicular transportation and competition in Indianapolis.