Bump Day, when the slowest qualified car could be bumped from the
Indianapolis 500's starting lineup by a faster unqualified car on the final day
of time trials, was once one of the most exciting days leading to "the greatest
spectacle in racing."
source:
latimes.com
Then the unthinkable happened. There was no bumping in 2003, or last year.
Worse, in 2004, not a single attempt was made to knock out the slowest car.
Hoping to regain some of the excitement, Indianapolis Motor Speedway
officials have artificially created not one, but four Bump Day scenarios for
this year's qualifying procedure.
Saturday is Pole Day, when every entry will be given an opportunity to earn the
No. 1 starting position for the 89th 500 on May 29.
In previous years, as many cars qualified on the first day as wanted. Last year,
22 raced their way into the field with their four-lap qualifying speeds around
the 2.5-mile rectangular oval.
Saturday, only the 11 fastest will make the field. After 11 cars qualify, there
will be bumping for what Roger Penske has called "the Elite Eleven."
On Sunday, bumping will begin after 22 are qualified. On May 21, spots 23
through 33 will be determined.
Sunday, May 22, is designated as Bump Day, but it is unlikely there will be any
cars left to bump with. Only 32 car-driver combinations are at the Speedway, and
it is unlikely that more than a couple more will show up.