Carpenter's Rinus VeeKay was fastest on the first qualifying day for the 106th running of the Indianapolis 500, and his time of 2min34s073 is the third best in history
Dutchman Rinus VeeKay set the third best four-lap mark in the history of qualifying for the Indianapolis 500 on Saturday (21). With a time of 2min34s073, the Carpenter driver took the lead on the first day of qualifying for the Indy 500.
VeeKay's average of 233.655 mph is second only to his fellow countryman Arie Luyendyk, who in 1996 scored an incredible 236.986 mph, and American Scott Brayton, who in the same year scored 233.718 mph.
First to take to the track in Saturday's session, McLaren's Mexican Pato O'Ward also made history. His average of 233.037 mph was the fifth highest in history, behind Tony Stewart, who also in 1996 posted 233.100 mph and has the fourth best time.
The first qualifying day for the 106th edition of the 500 Miles was interrupted by rain. Rinus VeeKay and Pato O'Ward were the top two, followed by Felix Rosenqvist. The top 12 drivers advance to the Fast 12 on Sunday. The top six advance to the Fast Six, which will determine the pole-position.
The 2022 edition of the Indianapolis 500 is scheduled for May 29.