At 89th Indianapolis 500
source:
irl.racing-live.com
General Colin L. Powell, former U.S. Secretary of
State, will drive a 2005 Chevrolet Corvette convertible pace car to lead the
field to the start of the 89th running of the Indianapolis 500 on May 29, 2005.
Neither Powell nor the Indianapolis Motor Speedway is a stranger to Corvette.
For a record seventh time, Corvette will pace the Indianapolis 500, and Powell
owns a 2005 Corvette coupe. This race will be the track debut of the
sixth-generation Corvette convertible.
It marks the fourth consecutive year and 16th time overall that a Chevrolet has
served as the official pace vehicle - the most appearances by any brand.
"We're honored that such a distinguished American as General Powell will drive
the Corvette pace car since honoring the sacrifice of America's military heroes
is such an important part of the tradition of this event and Memorial Day
weekend," said Joie Chitwood, Indianapolis Motor Speedway president and chief
operating officer. "It's also gratifying to continue the long relationship
between the Indianapolis 500 and Chevrolet with such an exciting,
performance-bred vehicle as the Corvette convertible pacing the field for what
should be a thrilling race."
As Secretary of State from January 2001 to January 2005, Powell led the State
Department in major efforts to solve regional and civil conflicts.