Thank You from Andretti Sports Marketing

Really don't think I need to say anything here.

--Chris

[Andretti Sports Marketing release]

Thank You from Andretti Sports Marketing On behalf of Michael Andretti and the entire team at Andretti Sports Marketing and Andretti Autosport, we would like to express thanks to the great fans that didn't let a 90-minute rain delay deter their desire to watch an IZOD IndyCar Series race today at the Milwaukee Mile. That spirit and passion is what has fueled the legacy of this historic track, and we're thrilled to add our own small page in its history book. Thanks to our superb list of sponsors that, on a very very brief timeline, stepped-in to support IndyFest. The backing of these sponsors - locally in Milwaukee as well as our national and international sponsors - makes it possible for us to offer reasonably priced tickets and an infield full of fun activities and events. The "we couldn't do it without them" crew of volunteers deserve thanks and recognition, as do the media members whose coverage tells the world about a great city and great track. We'll see you next June for the second Milwaukee IndyFest! We can't wait to be back. The staff of Andretti Sports Marketing.

"If people don't come for this, they're not going to come out."

Agreed, Mike. For the record, though it may appear so, I'm not on the payroll at Milwaukee IndyFest, but perhaps I should be.

Fact is, I'm just incredibly impressed with how Michael Andretti and his Andretti Sports Marketing group are going about reestablishing the IZOD IndyCar Series race at The Milwaukee Mile—100% effort (There is no 110%, BTW), from what I can see.

What blows me away: The SM engagement—previously detailed here—ticket prices reduced 38%, plus this killer list of events and activities that make IndyFest a complete Father's Day weekend destination, for all ages.

• Thursday kick-off street party at the Hilton Milwaukee
• Friday brat fry (:O), autograph session, and battle of the bands
• Saturday autograph session and post-race concert with Smash Mouth
• Infield happenings include: zip line, Snake Pit, family fun zone, midway rides and games, IndyCar Fan Village, a Ferris wheel, and bumper car racing

Oh, by the way: FRIDAY GRANDSTAND ADMISSION IS FREE. Seriously?

You don't have to be a die-hard open-wheel fan to get enjoyment out of your time at Milwaukee IndyFest, which is an awesome recipe for a successful event. Props to Mike for bringing the festival atmosphere of a street race to an oval.

More info here. Tickets here.

Hope the hard work pays off, Mike (like he's reading this), you've earned a good result.

The racing? Oh, that'll take care of itself.

—Chris

Let the feeling live on--TOMORROW'S Mile test open to the public

Still buzzing from yesterday's epic '500?' Awesome. Don't let the feeling die!

Tomorrow's IZOD IndyCar Series test at The Milwaukee Mile is open to YOU. So get to the Series' other incredibly historic venue, if you can. Deets, below.

And BTW: Proper recognition to Mike and his Andretti Sports Marketing posse for the fan-friendly gesture.

[Milwaukee IndyFest Release]

Milwaukee IndyFest: Tuesday Test Session Open to the Public

The teams and stars of the IZOD IndyCar Series will be in action Tuesday at the Milwaukee in a test session in advance of the Milwaukee IndyFest, June 15 and 16.

The full list of teams and drivers is still being finalized following today's running of the Indianapolis 500, but fans can expect to see many of the top names in the sport testing on the one-mile oval. The grandstand area at the Milwaukee Mile will open from 9 am to 5 pm Tuesday, with concessions available and the IndyFest showcar on display. (Fans will not be able to watch from the infield, which is limited to participants only.) The Wisconsin State Fair Park box office will also be open, selling tickets for Milwaukee IndyFest, June 15 and 16. Tickets can also be purchased online at the official website: http://www.MilwaukeeIndyFest.com.

This will be the first major test session on an one-mile oval for the new DW12 Dallara chassis and the new turbocharged V6 engines from Chevrolet and Honda.

Michael Andretti: Owning His Heritage

75% of Andretti's driver lineup
hails from the U.S.

Sure, I love me some T.K., Willy P., and the always rootable, Swiss Miss but, personally, nothing compares to watching homegrown talent tear it up on the track.

With that in mind, AHOI would like to recognize Michael Andretti, of Andretti Autosport, with major ups for six of his eight full-time drivers having grown up amongst the Amber Waves of Grain.

Coincidence? Maybe, but I'll choose to take it at face value. 

Michael is very quietly doing his part to ensure indigenous talent has an opportunity to compete on America's premier open-wheel stage.

Good on ya, Mike.

Below, is a list of all the drivers who regularly attend AA meetings:

IZOD IndyCar Series

• Marco Andretti—Nazareth, PA USA
• Ryan Hunter-Reay—Boca Raton, FL USA
• Tony Kanaan—Salvador, Brazil
• Danica Patrick—Roscoe, IL USA

Firestone Indy Lights Series

• Charlie Kimball—Camarillo, CA USA
• Martin Plowman—Tamworth, England

USF2000 Series

• Sage Karam—Bethlehem, PA USA
• Zach Veach—Stockdale, OH USA

—JM