The First Indianapolis 500 Is Held

Setting the scene

The Indianapolis Motor Speedway had opened in 1909 to showcase automobiles, and promoters sought a single long-distance race that would test reliability and draw manufacturers' attention.

What happened

The first Indianapolis 500 was held on May 30, 1911; Ray Harroun won in the Marmon Wasp, a car he designed with what may have been racing's first rearview mirror.

Why it still matters

"The Greatest Spectacle in Racing" became a Memorial Day tradition and the cornerstone of American open-wheel motorsport. Memorable detail: Harroun was the only driver in the field without a riding mechanic.

Background

Ray Harroun won in the Marmon Wasp with a rearview mirror.