1961 Indianapolis 500 -- Item437

Photographer Dave Friedman captured and preserved auto racing history. His work -- and his collection of works by other photographers -- documents key races, cars, drivers, and teams. This photo is from the grand opening of Indianapolis Raceway Park, held May 27-29, 1961, before the Indianapolis 500. The "Pre-500 Speed-O-Rama" featured an appearance by Mickey Thompson and his four-cylinder, supercharged Pontiac Tempest dragster.