Businesses, fans react to shorter Indy 500 schedule

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - Indy 500 promoters may have a job on their hands, selling a shortened Indy 500 schedule to businesses and fans.

Even in the cold of December months before May there are reminders of the big race at Charlie Brown's Restaurant in Speedway.

There are autographed banners on the walls and on the tables, checkered flags and cars sit next to the creamers and ketchup.

"It's very important," said Charlie Brown's Manager Angie Wood. "We are very race-oriented."

Businesses like Charlie Brown’s depend on the huge numbers of race fans that descend upon Speedway during the month of May.

At first blush, a shortened Indy 500 schedule does not sound like a good thing.

"Hopefully it won't be too dramatic for us," Wood said. "The race car drivers come in, so we'll get them whenever they get here, I guess."

So, what do fans think?

It's obvious from the license plates in the parking lot for the track's museum that the track and the race attract fans from near and far.

Jim Rugowski is from Wisconsin.

24-Hour News 8 asked him if it would help him to be able to spend just one weekend in town for qualifications, versus two.

"I probably would just plan to spend one weekend anyway," Rugowski replied. "And it would probably be the weekend just before the race."

For another fan, an Indianapolis native the change is a less than welcome departure from tradition.

"I think it's a little sad," said Larry Brodnik. "I grew up in the days when it was the month of May, and enjoyed coming over to the track for a lot of practice and all those things. And I just think there's going to be something missing, that's all."

The track will open on Saturday, May 15 with practice for rookies and veterans at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Race Day is Sunday, May 30.

Pole Day and Bump Day will be condensed into a single weekend on May 22 and 23. Carb Day will be Friday, May 28.