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IndyCar: JR Hilderbrand emerges fastest rookie (+photos)

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Khatir Soltani
Seven rookie drivers were invited Thursday at the Indianapolis Speedway to take part in the Rookie Orientation Program ahead of competing in the May classic at the end of the month.

Were present, all drivers who have not raced an IndyCar at Indianapolis before, as they are required to complete four phases of the program.

(Photo: Ron McQueeney/IMS)

JR Hildebrand (Panther), Canadian James Hinchcliffe (Newman/Haas), Charlie Kimball (Ganassi) and James Jakes (Dale Coyne) were joined yesterday by Indy 500 entrants Ho-Pin Tung (Schmidt Dragon), Scott Speed (Dragon) and Pippa Mann (Conquest).

They all completed at least three of the four phases of the program, with Jakes still needing to finish part four.

Indy Lights graduates Hildebrand, Kimball, Mann and Hinchcliffe have all raced at the track in IndyCar's feeder series; the Indy Lights.

JR Hildebrand posted the quickest lap at 221.533 mph, while Canadian James Hinchcliffe recorded the most laps with 101 laps of the 2.5-mile oval.

Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
Automotive expert
As a car enthusiast, he tests and compares vehicles from different categories through the eyes of the consumer, ensuring relevant and objective reviews.
  • Over 6 years experience as a car reviewer
  • Over 50 test drives in the last year
  • Involved in discussions with virtually every auto manufacturer in Canada