As we approach Memorial Day the Indianapolis 500 roars into view. We confess that cars going around a track at dangerous speeds for a few hours is not our cup of tea. But for those fans who look forward to the spectacle each year, this is a big deal. Question: what is the attraction? Is it faster speeds than ever before? is it the risk of injury and death? Is it the gambling undercurrent? We’re not saying these are inappropriate; we’re simply asking “what attracts people to the event?”
Long ago, a justification for the event was the testing of autos and various parts (engine, valves, tires, etc.) at high sustained speeds. But over the years, all auto makers have built and maintained their own testing facilities. So it appears that the Indy 500 is continued almost out of tradition without any visible benefit to the masses. Nothing wrong with that…
Final thought…it has been said that there are only 3 true “sporting activities”. Car racing, mountain climbing and bull fighting are listed as they are the only activities that involve the risk of injury and death. All other sports are simply pastimes that have been elevated to the title “sport” by money interests who have self profit in mind. Think about it…
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