Fans Create Their Own Race During Indy 500 Rain Delay

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Sunday, The 108th running of the Indianapolis 500 was supposed to get started around 11:45 AM EST time, but a large storm cell attacked Speedway, Indiana, from the Southwest, leading to an early delay. Rain has never been much to stop a party at Indianapolis Motor Speedway and fans found ways to enjoy the extra rain-soaked hours at the race.

Shortly before the lightning hold was lifted at 2:05 EST, fans were seen running circuit races on the concourse.

Road & Track's Fred Smith took in the festivities from above as sets of six race fans took to the competition, one of which quickly retired in the above clip and another who rebounded from an early stumble to win the race.

The most recent radar shows the end of the rain cell, and IMS President Douglas Boles estimates a 2-hour window for track drying before the start of pre-race activities.

As a result of the rain-delay start, local central Indiana residents can now watch the race from home as the controversial TV blackout is lifted.

With the start time being pushed closer and closer to the starting command of the Coca-Cola 600, it's time for Hendrick and Kyle Larson to make a decision. IndyStar is reporting that the Indy 500 is "the priority" for the NASCAR Cup Series regular.

Justin Allgaier will race the Hendrick No. 5 car in Larson's place to start the race and will drop to the rear after Larson qualified 10th on Saturday evening.

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