Robin Miller's Mailbag for June 15, presented by Honda Racing/HPD

Welcome to the Robin Miller Mailbag as presented by Honda Racing / HPD. You can follow the Santa Clarita, California-based company at:

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Your questions for Robin should continue to be sent to millersmailbag@racer.com We cannot guarantee we’ll publish all your questions and answers, but Robin will reply to you. And if you have a question about the technology side of racing, Robin will pass these on to Marshall Pruett and he will also answer here.

Q: Wow, that was a nasty crash with Newgarden and Daly. I turned on the race after the accident (because of the channel change, I was recording the F1 race on NBCSN) so I'm not sure whether the guys in the booth knew that Newgarden was OK. When they showed how the roll bar impacted the SAFER wall, I only could think of what happened to Wheldon. Thank goodness Newgarden is OK, but do you know how long he'll be out of the car? Does Pigot get the call?

Jim Doyle

Q: When I was at the Old Timer's dinner and Hall of Fame installation for Paul Goldsmith, I got a chance to speak to Tony George and I told him every time a driver in IndyCar or NASCAR hits a SAFER barrier and walks away I think of him and what he spent to build the SAFER barrier and say "Thank You"! And then yesterday I watched Josef Newgarden's crash and I added, 'sometimes what a person does to save others life needs to be celebrated!' Thank God for Tony George!!

Terrible Ted

RM: Fuel cells, seats, helmets, shoes, uniforms, cars and the HANS Device have all contributed to the safest age of racing but it's impossible to gauge just how many drivers have been spared death or grievous injuries because of TG's investment in the SAFER Barrier.

Q: Having watched the IndyCar live broadcast, and at the same time having the IndyCar site live on my computer, I'm totally amazed at the lack knowledge some fans have. Bloggers were writing and wondering why an ambulance was not the first vehicle to arrive at Josef Newgarden's crash site. First, let me say IndyCar has always had the most amazing safety crew in all of motorsport, bar none. These teams travel to all the races, and have computerized medical records of the history of all the drivers on site. They know what they face upon arriving at the crash site.

People wanting an ambulance first on scene do not understand many time they are staffed by local personnel (not knocking them) that may have limited resources to treat a injured person. Not to draw this out, I suggest they read the book by Dr. Steve Olvey: "Rapid Response – My Life as a Motorsports Life Saver" which will give the fan an insight to how the safety team works and how many life's they have saved. IMO there is no other racing series that can compare to the IndyCar safety team. My hats off to them all and speedy recovery to Josef.

Joe Steber, Jim Thorpe, PA

RM: Thanks to the pioneers Wally Dallenbach, Carl Horton, Steve Olvey and Terry Trammell, IndyCar racing has the finest safety crew and fastest response on this planet. The Holmatro boys saved Hinch's life on the track last year just like Lon Bromley, Dave Hollander, Trammell and the CART team did for Alex Zanardi in Germany in 2001. And any driver will tell you that after a big accident, the first thing they want to see is a familiar face coming off that Holmatro truck.

Q: I'm always a little frustrated when a driver gets out of the car following a big crash and has to sit down (or collapse) on the pavement. It was obvious that Josef Newgarden was unsteady while they were getting him out of the car. It's not just IndyCar; I see this happen in NASCAR, too. Why doesn't the Holmatro Safety Team have a gurney at the ready for these situations?

Cindy Riordan, Kankakee, IL

RM: Whoa, please don't compare anything in IndyCar safety to anything in NASCAR because there is no comparison. The Holmatro boys helped Josef out of his crumpled car and steadied him as he stood and I'm sure he told them he was OK before becoming wobbly. Trust me, they take every precaution to ensure the driver's well being.

Q: Do you know what IndyCar is doing to address drivers' head protection in the current Dallara chassis or if they have plans for updated protection in a future chassis? Are the drivers involved? Do they care to be?

Pat, Virginia

Q: Will everyone have a full tank and new tires come August? What about sets of tires used and left over? If Newgarden is cleared to drive, will they allow him to race in a new car?

Joe Mullins

RM: If IndyCar starts the race the way they left it, where were the cars? How much fuel was on board at the red? What set of tires was being used? IndyCar will announce its decision soon enough, but don't think Josef or Conor will be allowed back in the race.

Q: My family and I attended this past weekend's Firestone 600 at TMS (both Saturday and Sunday). Despite the rain, I thought that both TMS management and IndyCar made the best out of a really tough situation. IndyCar scored a huge PR home run with the drivers coming into the stands Saturday evening to meet and greet the fans. It was awesome and I promise you, people were impressed and new fans were made.

What little bit we saw of the race on Sunday was pretty awesome – much better racing than we have seen at TMS recently, so I guess the aero package has changed enough to allow better racing. Up until the accident, Conor Daly was on fire, making pass after pass on the outside – the kid really showed me a lot. Really thankful that he and Newgarden came through that crash relatively OK, because that was a hell of a shunt. Hopefully, Josef will recover quickly and Conor will learn from it.

Finally, kudos to the NBCSN crew for their work, especially on Saturday night. Really tough circumstances for you all and from what we were seeing on the track's big TV, all of you did a great job keeping the show going. Really enjoyed the bench-racing segment you and the pit reporters did that was photo-bombed by Hinch and Josef.

Richard, Flower Mound, Texas

RM: Glad to hear that because I was upset that nobody was telling you guys anything for four hours! The IndyCar PR staff (Kate Guerra's idea I'm told) asked the drivers to go into the grandstands and, as you saw, Hinch, Josef, Conor, Graham, RHR and Seabass responded immediately. It was the best goodwill that IndyCar will deliver all season, and I think it shows what a good group IndyCar has in and out of the car. I'll pass along your kudos to the NBCSN kids.

 

Q: Great to hear that Newgarden will race again. Other than that, has there ever been a more screwed up IndyCar race? Once again it proves that IndyCar is a one-trick pony. The Indy 500, and everything else. What was the official attendance at the Texas race? All I know is in the past when we have purchased tickets for a race, wherever that has taken us, if it rains we still come back the next day. Apparently what few fans were there on Saturday didn't think it was worth the gas money to return on Sunday. I'm guessing that they stayed home to watch the NASCAR race from Michigan. Pitiful!

And one last thing, enough with the freakin' Rossi thing. He will go down in history only as winning the '100th Indy 500 Lottery' and nothing else. I can assure you, in the future years no one will be talking about Alexander Rossi. Give it up, we get it. Hey, I've got a suggestion. Why not swap racing dates for the rescheduled Texas race? Lets have the Sonoma race on August 27th and close the season at Texas.

Grumpy Gary

RM: I think the only thing you said that made sense was your last thought about moving the finale to Texas, I'm all for it. As for blaming IndyCar, that's ludicrous. They can't prevent the rain or the weepers, and I liked the fact they finally quit worrying about the puddle coming out of the pits and went racing. FYI, there was more good racing in 30 laps at Texas than in 200 at MIS. Tough to call the crowd, I'd guess maybe 15,000 on Saturday night and they were beyond patient. Rossi, above, did a helluva job in qualifying and early in the race when he was hanging in the top five before the handling went away. I'm not saying he's going to become an IndyCar legend, but he's been pretty damn impressive the past month.

Q: Very disappointed by the decision made at Texas last weekend. I am not disappointed in IndyCar or Texas Motor Speedway. I'm sure they made every attempt to put on a great show for the fans. We cannot change Mother Nature. Under those circumstances, it was not possible to race either day. I am very disappointed in the decision to 'continue' the race on August 27. The fans that showed up and stayed late Saturday night and the loyal ones who returned to the track Sunday deserve better.

Only 42 laps were run under green when the terrible accident occurred involving Newgarden and Daly. The race should have been red flagged at that point, but they continued to circle the track in an effort (I assume) to get the race in before it rained. You are always saying that IndyCar listens to fans. I understand there are rules in place, but this is one time I believe IndyCar owes it to the loyal fans of Texas, and IndyCar, to scrap the rulebook and start the entire race over again. We do not have control of the weather, but we can make sound decisions and do what's right. I am sure some people would be upset but I believe it would be in the best interest of the sport to start over. (At least, revert back to lap 42). If there are complaints about the staring grid, than let them start from the position each driver was in.

Bill Cameron

RM: I talked to IndyCar's Jay Frye about it, and he said they might considering reverting back to lap 42 but won't have a new race because it's in the rulebook and it could impact the championship. I get that, but I think adding those caution laps would be a popular move.

Q: I know I am going to get roasted by the traditionalists, but I really think when we go back to Texas we need to hit the reset button. It had a good crowd on Saturday. I think it would help with getting these fans back out there. We all know there is no way for the drivers to go right back where they were. Everyone will restart with fresh tires and full tanks of fuel anyhow. We will also have guys in different cars and running different engines. If we need to save the owners some money by no re-qualifying, I'm OK with that. Even if we need to put Newgarden and Daly to the tail. By the way, I spent the weekend at the 'Dream' in Eldora. I liked your idea of putting an IndyCar race on a Wednesday night. Now that guys know how to raise the cars for the domed skid, let's raise the cars and do a Wednesday night race at Eldora. The place would be packed!

Short Track Rat

RM: See the answer in the question above yours from the IndyCar president of competition. No chance of a complete restart and, as he said in the story on RACER.com, what happens if Josef gets to go again in a new car and wins after being 30 laps behind in his original car? And the top three in points are all eliminated in crashes? I'm all for a total restart, but it does compromise the competition and sticking to the rulebook here is the right call. I'd like to see the IndyCar drivers at Eldora in Ford Focus midgets in prime time.

 

Q: How can it be that Carlos Munoz has absolutely no sponsorship on his car? The kid is fearless on big ovals. Did you hear Townsend talking about his breakfast with Mario? Andretti was giving two-seater rides yesterday and turned a 207 on one lap. At age 76. With a passenger. Townsend said he asked, "What was that like?" Mario said, "It was a little loose, but I just went for it." Sign the waiver?

Chad R. Larson

RM: I'm afraid if Carlos' father didn't have money the kid wouldn't have a ride. Ditto for a lot of guys, but that's the way it is nowadays. Hell, T.K. had to bring some sponsorship even with his resume. But Munoz is damn good on ovals, no question. As for Mario, he always gives his passengers the A-ticket ride because he runs as hard as possible. I know Scott and two-seat boys were advertising and selling seats to go 200mph, so Mario didn't disappoint. I got to ride with him at Laguna Seca in 1999 and it was breathtaking.

Q: Just finished watching the NBCSN qualifying show. The guys in the booth made several mentions of the various aero packages in use (mostly Chevy's). Rather than trying to illustrate the different combinations on a moving car, was there any reason why the pit lane cameras (showing you and Katie) could have shown those on a parked car, either before they went out (waiting in line) or after their run? As much discussion as went on with the announcers about this, some close ups would have been beneficial to the audience.

Peter in Phoenix

RM: I think when Jon Beekhuis returns to our team at Road America he will report that information and explain all the pros and cons, because he understands it all.

Q: I liked and would second your suggestion to hold the race on a Wednesday night. You forgot there are baseball games all around the country, but how many of them are IndyCar fans? Nevertheless, it was a worthy suggestion. We need some Thursday Night Thunder again. Thanks to you and the NBCSN crew guys for keeping us fans entertained during the long rain delay. It was also really great for the drivers to go into the stands to do an impromptu autograph session with the fans. More of the drivers should have been out there, too. But I couldn't believe how empty the track looked Sunday compared to Saturday night.  Will it be any cooler there in late August?

Tony Mezzacca

RM: My cohort at NBCSN, Kevin Lee, suggested a few years ago that IndyCar stage a race on Thursday night of the baseball All-Star Game week because there is nothing on television. So either night, Wednesday or Thursday of that week, would work. I think a lot of people were understandably steamed after sitting for five hours in dry weather and not watching a car make one lap. By the time the race starts in August the heat will be tolerable.

Q: Just as the cancellation of Boston's race proved a benefit to the series by accelerating the race at Watkins Glen back into the schedule, I wonder if pushing the Texas race back to late August may also prove to be a blessing in disguise? It's not as if the place was bursting at the seams, so could the August 27 postponement date help pave the way for Jay Frye to a work on a spring race at COTA?

Rick M.,Toronto

RM: Love to see a race at COTA but Mark Miles doesn't want to rankle Eddie Gossage, so I guess IndyCar will never run there as long as Texas Motor Speedway stays on the schedule. But a spring race at COTA wouldn't hurt his crowd.

Q: Who is calling race strategies for Newgarden and Carpenter during the races? Strategy coordinators for other teams are frequently mentioned, but I can't recall anyone being interviewed from Carpenter Racing. (Or does Ed do that from his cockpit?). This could be a scoop! Also, how about some color commentary with Sahara Fisher in her new Pace Car role?

Bill Sanders

RM: Tim Broyles calls the strategy for Ed and Brent Harvey plots things for JoNew. When Spencer Pigot is driving Carpenter's car, I believe Ed moves to Newgarden's car.

 

Q: Interesting to see your comments regarding other races so soon after the Indy 500. For me personally, coming from Australia for the Indy 500 this year (and in 2013), I find the Detroit race an ideal follow-up to Indy. Only a week later and a short drive from Indianapolis (so less time away and therefore cheaper), and the chance to see two more races for my favourite category in the world in a very different environment, showcasing the main reason why IndyCar racing and it's drivers are still the most versatile in the world.

As for the cost of admission to the Indy 500, I think I paid $85 in 2013 and $105 this year for seats in the SW Vista. Don't want to encourage IMS too much, but compared to the admission prices we pay for some V8 Supercar events in Australia, it does not seem too bad value considering the importance of the Indy 500.

Ken Bright, Australia

RM: Glad to hear it Ken, but going to Texas or Fontana or back to Milwaukee would keep that Indy 500 vibe going longer than a street show. As for prices, as much grief as I've given IMS for its greed this year, I've always said Indy tickets are still one of the best bargains in sports – especially compared to the NBA, NFL or NHL.

John, Newcastle Australia

RM: Will has been promoting it, but IndyCar says it's not talked to him about a VSC. As for an overall champ at Motown, only if it paid a nice chunk of change for the top three. Personally I'd just as soon only have one race at Detroit, and go with a doubleheader at an oval like Iowa or Phoenix.

Q: I went to my second 500 this year after going in 2011 (and the Vegas race as well). Going again next year, coming in on Thursday with a couple non-IndyCar fans just for the party (I will drag them to the race too). You can't possibly understand the scope of the 500 until you've been, very similar to how crazy it is to be doing the speeds they are. The skill and precision required is extremely underappreciated by road racers like me.

IndyCar and IMS have done a great job of making the 500 weekend an even bigger event, with the addition of Saturday's concert, and it's something I'll be looking forward to next year. I think it's time fans stop complaining about ticket prices. Face value of my ticket was $115, and I paid $200 on Stub Hub, when everything else in that stand was going for $400 and up! The level of talent and competition in the series is as good as it has been since The Split, even if the field isn't as large. Compared to any other major sporting event tickets are a steal!

Oliver, Vancouver, BC

RM: I don't think many people complain about the Indy ticket prices, it's the concessions, parking, programs and swag they felt gouged about, at least the folks I talked with during the month. No doubt Indy remains a fantastic event and an affordable event, especially compared to stick and ball sports.

Q: As an Indianapolis resident and lifelong IMS supporter, I can honestly say my money would come out of my wallet a lot easier if the proceeds went to the series I love, or the facility I call home. If it becomes obvious the only goal of the board and Mr. Miles is to recoup the hundreds of millions of dollars squandered by TG, then that cash doesn't come out of my wallet quite as easily. Leave it to the dysfunctional Hulman/George family to destroy a perfect month of May. If they aren't embarrassed, I'm embarrassed for them! Again! My first year was 1976. I believe the pole award was $100,000 then, too? That was 40 years ago! I was very optimistic about the future after last month, but the rug was pulled out under my feet again. A driver or owner would have to be insane to want to participate in this series. Robin, I think your $50 million estimate is way too low.

Darren, Avon, IN

RM: The purse is a joke, just like making the drivers act appreciative with those phony checks that aren't theirs. And it hasn't increased in the past four years. But I'm not sure what the Hulman/George family controls anymore – if anything. And I purposely low-balled my estimate and didn't even include the television money so I think you are correct in that it was more than $50 million and closer to $60 million.

 

Q: Since I live in the Speedway area, my friends, my family and I were able to be at the track for the Angie's List GP, a few practice days, qualifying weekend, Carb Day and the race. The activities at The Indianapolis Motor Speedway leading up to and including The 100th Indianapolis 500 were fantastic. My friend Jess and I had one complaint. The Monday practice day following qualifications had four hours of frenzied, spectacular racing activity that we and most everybody else missed because our employers require that we be at work occasionally during the month of May. We think Sunday does not need to be a full day of qualifications and this practice time should be moved to Sunday afternoon. What do you think? How would you like to see the qualifying weekend formatted?

Dave E, Speedway, IN

RM: I was saying the same thing last month, watching all that mayhem on Monday in front of no spectators. With only 33 cars, my suggestion would be to make Saturday a practice day and forfeit ABC, but then have all the qualifying Sunday. If you're going to keep it two days of 'qualifying' then it has to pay a lot more than it does, because the risk isn't worth the reward, other than ABC exposure.

And here is the response from IMS president Doug Boles:

"Monday following qualifying has turned into one of the best on-track days of the month and to make it better – and add some more unique value/experience to our most diehard fans (bronze badge holders) – we gave bronze badge holders equal to silver on that day, allowing a bronze badge holder pit access. I have had more thank you notes and conversations from bronze badge holders who take the day off because they so enjoy the access that this day has provided.

"As for Sunday, the issue with stopping early and going into practice mode is challenging. Two of the most notable include teams not having the time to switch between qualifying trim/boost and a proper race day setup, especially on a day where many teams are hyper-focused on the best starting spot they can attain. Second, the ABC window is important to provide more than practice content to create a show that builds up to an ending like this year as an exclamation point to leading into race weekend. Again, agree it is a great practice day. Just don't see us moving it into Sunday as part of a qualifying day."

Q: Indy was announced as a sellout. However, from the aerial photos and TV coverage, it looked like the lower sections of the H Stand and the South Vista had no one sitting there. Have these seats been removed? If so, why wouldn't IMS put them back for the 100th Running or covered them with a banner? The two stands removed on both sides of the NE Vista several years ago also look bad, with the old concrete foundations sitting there. You would think with all the Turn 3 passes in the 500 recently, this area would be a prime spot to sit. Again, Doug Boles should cover this up with a banner and sell some sponsorship. It was a big crowd, but it still didn't look like a sellout or 1994. See you at Road America.

Aaron, Hubertus, WI

RM: Boles' response:

"The NE Vista and NE Vista Backstretch areas where seats have been removed, the concrete foundations are still there (and this year we screened in both locations so it was visually covered from ground level for fans). Until this year, NE Vista had not sold out and the cost to rebuild those stands is prohibitive. The areas removed were also the areas where the views are not nearly as good (and that is why the seats didn't sell previously).

"There has been little interest in signage/bannering over these areas, however, we continue to think of ways to better display or use it. For example, we have considered making the old NE Vista Backstretch area motorhome parking (however, the closeness to the fence presents some concerns) and have looked at building a fan observation deck/concession area in the portion of NE Vista just before the short chute.

"South Vista lower sections do not have seats. What you see in the overhead is the platform or decking where the seats used to be. Those lower 10 rows were removed because the view is less desirable lower and from a safety standpoint. H stand lower seats have not been sold for several years (the view is difficult from there). We discussed re-adding seats this year, but chose to only re-add seats in the lower rows of the northern portion of Tower Terrace (we added about 2,000 this year for the 500)."

 

Q: As a 75-year-old from Portland, I haven't missed an Indy 500 fan on radio, TV or in person since 1956. I've attended seven 500s and brought my son and grandson to the 100th race, and we had a terrific time. Watched the 500 from the NE Vista where the racing and passing in Turn 3 kept us on our feet half the race. Getting autographs was a bit tough and made the pit stop competition difficult to see, but the museum, the old cars on-track and the spectacular Lights race to the finish line, above, were all a thrill.

Many Mailbag fans seem disappointed that Rossi-Herta-Andretti beat the stars with speed tempered by patience and strategy, and with a gutsy call at the end. But the way Hinchcliffe, Hunter-Reay, Bell, Newgarden, Kanaan and Munoz were passing and burning up fuel during the race, it was no surprise to me. Didn't Mears used to run a lot like Rossi? Sixth or seventh for 450 miles and all of a sudden there he was in Victory Lane?

Edwin Collier, Portland, OR

RM: No doubt that a lot of us were disappointed there wasn't a shootout at the end, but I also think the majority of the crowd applauded the Herta-Rossi strategy and it sounded like a popular victory from where I was standing in the pits. Mears only led 25 laps in 1979 but was out in front for 119 laps in 1984 (including the final 56), 89 in 1988 and 30 in 1991. He was smart about saving his equipment and picking his spots, but never used fuel mileage to make it to Victory Lane.

Q: You are spot on about the Indy purse – it 100% explains why the car count is down. There should be a guaranteed minimum for having a car in the race. Regarding Iowa, does race day fluctuate between Saturday night and Sunday afternoon? This is an event I'd like to see live and if they'd make it a Saturday night race this would make for a perfect weekend trip from West Michigan. I missed Indy this year and really want to make it to a race this season (I know Belle Isle was last weekend but I'll pass on visiting Detroit). Regarding the schedule for next season, can we please get California for the finale sometime in October? Can we also get some more international dates, a better ratio of street, road, and oval races? Can we get Texas or Milwaukee to follow Indy? A Texas doubleheader would be great twin 200-mile races?

CJ Shoemaker, Kalamazoo, MI

RM: Iowa is usually Saturday nights but I believe going to Sunday evening was all about television, and I think it's a good slot for NBCSN. But I'm sure Iowa would prefer Saturday nights, because it gives them an easy rain date. Not sure what 2017 schedule is looking like yet, but Gateway and Norfolk would seem to be the leading candidates to be added. Just hope The Glen stays. Love to see IndyCar go to Texas or Milwaukee after Indy, but The Captain seems intent on keeping Belle Isle in that slot for Chevrolet.

Q: This morning I had an e-mail from NHRA News that the 2017 NHRA schedule has been announced. It is June 8 and NASCAR's three series and NHRA have their schedules out. I know it will be May of next year when IndyCar finalizes its 2017 schedule. Why is it that IndyCar can't have consistency in its schedule by now? CART and Indy Racing League joined in 2008, and here we are in 2016 and IndyCar still does not have its head on straight.

I am not saying IndyCar has to have the schedule out this month, but what is Mr. Miles thinking towards 2017? If I was him, I would be working on Gateway or Milwaukee for post Indy 500 next season. I do like Detroit, but would like to see that race fall later in the year as October in Michigan is always beautiful. I really like to addition of Phoenix and Road America for 2016, but are they going to be one and done? I am heading to Pocono in August with my dad and I like hearing stories of when my dad use to crew for Al Loquasto/Frostie Root Beer car back in the late '70s, he always ends the story with, 'them days are over'. I am afraid this will be the last year for IndyCar at Pocono. It was great while it lasted.

Andy, St. Marys, Ohio

RM: I think one of Jay Frye's priorities is to lock in a schedule and get the promoters some much-needed date equity, and it's great that IndyCar is returning to its old standbys at Phoenix, Road America and Watkins Glen. I also think he understands it would be beneficial on many levels to have races every other weekend, but IndyCar can't be as choosey as F1 because the demand isn't there. And when your schedule is compacted into six months, it's difficult to get a lot of breathing room, but I like that Jay has taken the point on the schedule. As for Al Loquasto, I'll always remember the 'Indy on a Shoestring' Special and the day he finally made the show with Clint Brawner's guidance.

 

Q: I don't understand the comment about Detroit's small crowds. I've gone every year, from the very beginning. I was there all three days and the place was packed! I've never seen so many people on Free Friday since the races were downtown! I heard someone say that the grandstand seats and corporate pavilions were sold out for Saturday and Sunday. Also the GA grandstands were filled. It's a great event, but I do wish the track was paved smooth like Circuit Gille Villeneuve in Montreal!

John Charbonneau, Windsor, Ontario, Canada

RM: I'm sure I said that because there aren't that many seats but it's difficult to tell how many people show up in the chalets and suites so Detroit (above) probably out-draws St. Pete, Toronto, Texas and Sonoma. Appreciate your support, attendance and comments.

Q: I agree that the 500 should be followed with an oval race. I'll take it even one step further: the Triple Crown should be run around the 500, with the first round being at Fontana in May and the final round at Pocono in June. If all three races were held two weeks apart, it would build interest for the series from West to East, and would establish a pattern that us old-timers who favor oval racing could remember. A progressive purse payable to the drivers and crew could be provided by a Triple Crown sponsor who would receive naming rights in exchange. It's got to be better than the current IndyCar welfare system.

Napalm Nick, Locust Grove, VA

RM: No chance of another 500-miler in May, and the Triple Crown concept is only interesting if IndyCar promotes a big sponsor and offers a big payout. But if Fontana ever came back it isn't going to do anything until late September or October, and IndyCar doesn't want to decide its championship at midnight on the East Coast. I'm afraid the Triple Crown doesn't really have a future in its traditional oval-only format, but I like Long Beach/Indianapolis/Road America – providing again there is a major sponsor with good money.

Q: You mingle with the IndyCar drivers on a regular basis. I've heard that Hunter-Reay is a hothead, Bourdais very quiet (except when complaining) and Rossi shy, but witty. Please give us your capsule impressions of the grid.

Anthony Jenkins, Canada

RM: Oh man, we don't have enough space, but I find RHR pretty even-keeled, Seabass has always been kinda moody and I don't know Rossi well enough to tell you anything except he's well-spoken. Hinch and Newgarden need to have their own TV show, and Kanaan will be hosting Jeopardy some day. Lots of good personalities in the IndyCar paddock, and it showed last Saturday night in Texas.

Q: I found the most amazing thing at Steak & Shake last night. My kids all got a cardboard fold-up of Graham Rahal and his IndyCar with their kids' menu. They absolutely loved it. My six-year-old daughter didn't put it down all night. So thank you Steak and Shake! That's the kind of thing that makes young fans, something hands-on that promotes the series. When I was growing up near Joliet, IL, we went to the midgets every Saturday, and being able to head to the pits afterwards and sit in the cars was the coolest thing ever. Made me a lifelong fan. Even took the kids to their first sprint car race a few weeks back, even though winged cars on pavement aren't my favorite. But they can't wait to go again.

Ethan Donohue

RM: That's good to hear, we need to make as many young fans as possible and Graham and Steak & Shake have been a good pairing.

Q: For years, I know you and many dedicated IndyCar fans have been pushing for a formula, especially at the 500, that includes big horsepower and low downforce. I couldn't agree more. This past weekend at Michigan, NASCAR ran what Darrell Waltrip surmised was the smallest spoiler used on a stock car in the past 40 years, above. The drivers seemed to like it, and I enjoyed seeing cars hit 216mph on the straight then have to slow dramatically for the corners. If NASCAR is successful with this new formula, do you think there's any chance that IndyCar might consider something similar in the future?

Andrew Nier

RM: That's the hope from most of the paddock, so we'll see what happens with the engine formula going forward. Townsend Bell said going back to methanol would add 100 horsepower, so if we took the road course HP and added 100 it would be at 850, and then only needs another 100 or so to be a brute. I was talking with Mikhail Aleshin over the weekend and he said 1,000 to 1,200hp would be his preference, because you would have to brake or back off for the corners at Indy.

Q: I have heard the idea that some of the older guys will have to retire in order to provide opportunities for the new young talent coming up from the MRTI – but when the older guys are still pushing the record books, that doesn't seem good for the sport, either. Who wants to see Bourdais, Montoya, Kanaan or Castroneves step aside just because they hit a certain age? Especially when these guys are still exciting. I am sure if they were no longer running up front they would step out. What IndyCar needs are new teams. Is there any update for your readers on Carlin, Juncos or anyone else talking seriously about 2017? This might enable the winner of Indy Lights more than a three-race guarantee. IndyCar needs to figure out how to make it more guaranteed races.

Doug Loeffler, Lakeville, MN

RM: You have correctly identified the problem, Doug. Three guys own half the field and there are only eight teams at the moment with nobody new on the horizon. And no incentive to join. I know Carlin and Juncos want to move up, but finding the kind of funding to make it without the Leader's Circle isn't easy.

Chad Frankenfield

RM: Thanks for that info Chad.

Q: Will Power's call for the VSC would be a benefit to some when you are on a large team running several strategies. For some of the smaller teams, the way they have the yellows now can give them a shot or totally kill them. How long has it been with them bunching up behind the safety car before the pits open? I'm not sure how I feel about this one.

Dino from New Hanover, PA

RM: Yellows don't play favorites, but with a closed pit it does give a team that qualified poorly and took a chance on pitting off-sequence to run hard and catch a break that puts them in the front. Opening the pits gives the race more of an authentic pace, but untimely cautions can always hurt the leaders.

I think closing the pits started in the '90s on full-course yellows to make sure you got the right leader after everyone was bunched up behind the pace car. But safety is said to be the main reason for closing the pits, since drivers will always race to the pits if they're not closed. On the other hand, a closed pit puts some drama on the stops. Bottom line, if you're interested in putting on a show, keep the pits closed. If you care about pure racing and the fastest car winning, leave 'em open.