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Headline: Indy Memories

Message: I have been coming to Indy for Pole Day, Carb Day, or Race Day since 1976. My Papaw & Dad started bringing me when I was only 5. I have not missed coming to the track since. My Papaw had a love for Indy Racing that he passed on to me. (Dad always came as the driver, but was really never into it). I remember sitting through rainy days at Pole Day & Race Day, but it never bothered me because I was at the track with my Papaw. Papaw & Dad brought me every year until I was able to drive and then Dad stopped coming. Papaw always liked Pole Days more, but he knew I liked race days so he would get tickets for the race as well. Papaw & I cheered for the Unsers and rooted against the Andrettis, especially since my sister liked the Andrettis. I have so many memories there with my Papaw its hard to name one. He last went in 1989 because of heart problems but he kept up with it through me going, and TV & newspaper. He passed away 5 years ago. Every time that I have walked into the Speedway the past 5 years I cherish the memories that we had and it feels like he is there right there with me. I always walk down to where we sit for Pole Day in the Paddock across from the start - finish line, I don't stay long as tears always appear.

I will pass the tradition on to my 4 year old little girl, once loud noises no longer bother her ears so much. I am taking my nephew for the 1st time this year as he just recently this past year got into Indy racing (it wasn't easy because he also likes Tony Stewart). The Indy 500 is my first love when it comes to sports even above Kentucky Basketball.

My most fondest memory came 7 years ago, the 1st year that I got a garage pass. I met Al Unser Sr. I talked with him and got his autograph. As he was signing the autograph, tears appeared because it was my childhood hero I was talking with. I told him how much it meant to me and he was very gracious and took time for me.

I will always be at the Indy 500 to honor my Papaw.

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