Notes: Compact Milwaukee schedule tests drivers, teams

By Dave Lewandowski

Published: Jul 6, 2015

Verizon IndyCar Series drivers will practice, qualify and race all on the same day in the ABC Supply Wisconsin 250 at Milwaukee IndyFest presented by the Metro Milwaukee Honda Dealers.

“It means you have to get it right quickly,” said defending race winner and reigning Verizon IndyCar Series champion Will Power of the non-stop action July 12 at The Milwaukee Mile.

A 45-minute morning practice will be followed 2½ hours later by single-car qualifications to set the starting lineup for the 250-lap race that will take the green flag at 4:35 p.m. (all times Central). A 75-minute practice session, starting at 5 p.m. July 11, and Indy Lights Presented by Cooper Tires practice and qualifying complements race day activity for both series.

The 21st Millers at Milwaukee Vintage Indy car event occupies the racetrack and concourse July 10 through 3 p.m. July 11. The event is open to the public.

Team owner A.J. Foyt, who made 45 starts at The Milwaukee Mile, prefers the compact schedule. The ABC Supply Wisconsin 250 will mark the 113th Indy car race at The Milwaukee Mile.

“I’m glad to see it that way because it’s cheaper on the car owners and makes things easier in some ways,” said Foyt, who two entries carry ABC Supply primary sponsorship. “You save a lot of money, and the wear and tear on the car and on the crew. Also, you save on your tire bill because you don’t use as many tires.

“I’d like to see them get back to that way. It separates the men from the boys. Instead of just sitting there for two days looking at the computer and the mistakes you’re making, and the engineers trying to figure out what they can do to make you run faster. You’ve got to have a lot more talent to run it all in one day. That’s the way it was in the old days and I’d like to see it go back to that.”

Packers legend Green is honorary race chairman

Ahman Green, the Green Bay Packers' career rushing leader, is the honorary race chairman.“As a race fan and proud Wisconsin resident, it’s an honor to be a part of Milwaukee IndyFest this summer at The Milwaukee Mile,” Green said. “Wisconsinites’ passion and enthusiasm for sports is unmatched, so I’m excited to see everyone at the track supporting this great annual tradition.”

Green will be on stage for a Q&A session at 3:20 p.m. July 12 in the Coors Light Music and Beer Garden and participate in pre-race festivities.

Infield activities for all ages will be available both days, with live entertainment in the Coors Light Music & Beer Garden, and a driver autograph session from 3-4 p.m. July 11 in the INDYCAR Fan Village.

Read full article on Press Room IndyCar