The Indy 500: a Hoosier tradition and money-maker for the state

Indiana will once again be the center of the auto racing world this weekend. The Indianapolis 500 is a sellout, which means nearly 400,000 people will be in the stands and the infield for what’s called the ‘Greatest Spectacle in Racing.’Motor sports are a big business in Indiana. A recent study shows the Indianapolis motor Speedway alone generates more than one billion dollars in economic activity and supports more than 8,500 jobs.This is not a one-race, May-only deal. There are about 50 racetracks in the state that host races every weekend in the summer.Read: Race fans hit the gas as new owners of Bloomington SpeedwayOn this week's Noon Edition, we will kick off Memorial Day Weekend with a look at the traditions, culture and economic impact of motor sports in Indiana.Join us on the air by calling 812-855-0811 or toll-free at 1-877-285-9348. You can also send questions for the show to [email protected].  You can also record your questions and send them in through email.   Guests  Andy Baker, director of the IU Motorsports Studies ProgramCurt Cavin, Senior Manager, Editorial IndyCarGerry Dick, president of Inside INdiana BusinessPat Sullivan, Bloomington Speedway announcer