IRL: Sprint PCS, Meijer Stores and Coca-Cola to Headline 'Arie's Final 500'
24 February 1999
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Luyendyk, 45, who said last November he will retire following this year's Indianapolis 500, unveiled his No. 5 Sprint PCS/Meijer/G-Force/Aurora/Firestone entry as well as a commemorative "Arie's Final 500" logo to celebrate his retirement.
"It's not a coincidence that the logo has a border which represents the Indianapolis Motor Speedway," said Luyendyk. "That, along with the checkered flags and '500' symbolize my respect for the great tradition of this event, which means so much to me and the millions of fans around the world." The '99 Indy 500 marks his 15th start at the Speedway since his career began.
Luyendyk, the IRL's "Most Popular Driver" in 1997 and 1998, is finalizing plans for a number of public appearances and autograph sessions. "As much as possible, I want to use my final race at Indianapolis as an opportunity to say 'thank you' to the fans and sponsors who have supported me throughout my career," said Luyendyk, the 1990 and 1997 Indy winner. "I think the 'Arie's Final 500' logo can serve as a cornerstone to promote all our activities leading into the race."
The logo will be featured in sponsor advertising and promotional materials as well as on a line of souvenirs and clothing.
Team owner Fred Treadway, who is currently on a business trip in Europe is pleased to be involved with "Arie's Final 500." "Arie is not only my driver, but a true friend. I'm honored to support his final 500 and I'm proud of his accomplishments with Treadway Racing and throughout his career. He's a champion on and off the track. In combination with Sprint PCS, Meijer, Coca-Cola and the others, we'll be a contender for the win!"
"Sprint PCS is extremely proud to sponsor Arie Luyendyk in his final 500," said Ed Mattix, Sprint PCS chief public relations officer. "Arie is truly a legend in the racing world and has been a tremendous asset to Sprint PCS as we've built our nationwide wireless network. We look forward to an exciting season of activities supporting Arie's last race that will hopefully culminate in a third Indy 500 victory."
"The Coca-Cola Bottling Company of Indiana is proud to be teaming up with the Treadway Racing team for the 1999 Indianapolis 500, along with Meijer and Sprint PCS," stated Coca-Cola account executive Brett Holaday. "We are also very excited to be associated with Arie Luyendyk for the fourth straight year with the opportunity to sponsor his final 500. Mr. Luyendyk has brought a lot of exciting memories to the Indianapolis community during his final years of racing at the Speedway, and we are proud to be part of his finale."
"Coca-Cola is looking forward to the opportunity to take this sponsorship to a whole new promotional level. This is not just an ordinary promotion for Coca-Cola, this is a celebration. Coca-Cola will make it possible for racing fans to get up close and personal with Arie through appearances at Indianapolis area Meijer stores before his last Speedway endeavor. This will be a send off for a champion that will be memorable for all fans of the 'Greatest Spectacle in Racing'".
Specific details of Luyendyk's appearances will be announced later.
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