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IndyCar test points toward epic 2019 Indy 500

SPEEDWAY, IND. (WISH) — Wednesday was a reminder that it is early spring in Indianapolis.

A four-hour rain delay interrupted IndyCar’s test at the freshly repaved Indianapolis Motor Speedway, but it didn’t silence the 28 drivers on hand. 

The weather couldn’t hold back two in particular: Reigning Indianapolis 500 champion Will Power and three-time Indianapolis 500 winner Helio Castroneves. 

“Driving in, I had a smile on my face, seeing that big banner up as I drive in,” Power said. “My car is in the museum. I love it. Love it. It really has made me happy this offseason.”

“This place is Disneyland of racing,” Castroneves said. “It is the perfect place for us to appreciate but also respect because it is intimidating.” 

We are still a month from race day, but much of the field already has its answer ready for questions regarding Bump Day. The field of 33 will leave a handful of drivers watching for the 103rd Indianapolis 500, as the amount of cars arriving for qualifying increases for a second straight year. 

James Hinchcliffe, the star bumped from last May’s Indianapolis 500, wasn’t shy about his goals on Wednesday. 

“Redemption from last year is kind of the name of the game for us,” Hinchcliffe said. “It is a great group. A lot of the same guys are here from last year. When something like that happens, it makes you stronger, it makes you more driven and determined. We have been working very hard in the offseason to make sure the mistakes of last year are not repeated.”

April, get out of here. We are ready for Bump Day and beyond in Indianapolis.