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Borg-Warner Trophy (Since 1936)

The trophy was commissioned in 1935, and designed by Robert J. Hill of Spaulding & Co. of Chicago. It was built by Gorham, Inc. of Rhode Island. The trophy was made of sterling silver and originally stood 51 inches tall, weighing 80 pounds. It was mounted on an 18-inch marble base and cost $10,000. It uniquely featured the bas-relief sculptures of all previous Indianapolis 500 winners on a series of checkerboard squares. There were squares to accommodate 70 winners. At that point, it was assumed the trophy's squares would fill up after the 1982 winner was added. However, there would be no race from 1942-1945 due to W.W.I.I., and thus, the squares on the body would then not fill up until after the 1986 winner was added.
The Borg-Warner Trophy was unveiled February 17, 1936 at a dinner at the Roosevelt Hotel in New York City hosted by then-Speedway president Eddie Rickenbacker. The name was derived from its sponsor, Borg-Warner Automotive Co. of Chicago, Illinois.
The Borg-Warner Trophy replaced the Wheeler-Schebler Trophy, which was given to the leader after 400 miles. The L. Straus & Co. Trophy was given to the winner each year from 1919 to 1935.
The wings of the trophy symbolize speed of flight. They were also used as handles for many years. Generally, they are no longer used as handles, as doing so proved damaging over the years to the trophy. The dome top features an unclothed man waving a checkered flag, the symbol of victory. The dome is removable for transportation purposes, and the body of the trophy us hollow.
The first winner of the Indianapolis 500 to be presented with the Borg-Warner Trophy was Louis Meyer in 1936. He proclaimed "winning the Borg-Warner Trophy is like winning an Olympic gold medal."
Each winner of the Indianapolis 500 is depicted in a silver, bas-relief sculpture. The likeness is placed on a brushed square, which represents the "black" squares of the checkerboard pattern. Directly below, in one of the unbrushed "white" squares, is scripted the year, name, and average speed of the winning driver..
Every year the Brog-Warner trophy is immediately presented to the winner of the Indianapolis 500 in victory lane. The trophy is lifted and placed on top of the car behind the driver's head. Two handlers, both members of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Safety Patrol (currently the father-and-son duo of Warren and A.J. Hilgendorf), always wearing leather gloves, balance the trophy on either side.
Fred Johnson, the division commander of the Speedway Safety Patrol for the pit and garage area for over 20 years, is responsible for the trophy when it has left the museum. He selects the handlers, who must be not only be trustworthy and carefull, but strong, big and tall to handle the awkward shaped trophy.
During the month of May, the trophy is prominently displayed and featured during many events surrounding the race. During qualifying days, it is displayed at the start-finish line at the track. During other practice days, it is displayed in the same area, or in the garage area, or elsewhere. It is usually displayed during the annual Oldtimer's banquet, and the Last Row Party. It is almost always carried on a float during the "500" Festival Parade in downtown Indianapolis the day before the race. The CARA charity fashion show, which takes place a few nights before the race has also seen the trophy in attendance for display.
Currently, Jan Layden, the administrative assistant to the director of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame Museum, is the chief caretaker. She polishes the trophy apporoximately once every three months, using Hagerty Silversmith's Polish, a job which takes about an hour and a half. During the month of May activities, the trophy is polished nearly every day.
When the trophy debuted in 1936, it featured the faces of all winners from 1911-1916 and 1919-1935 (the race was not held in 1917-1918 due to W.W.I.) Sculpter John Grawe created the twenty-four likenesses representing the first 23 races, including two co-winners for the 1924 event. Twenty-two of the likenesses were created featuring the driver wearing his helmet and goggles. Two faces, those of 1912 winner Joe Dawson and 1921 winner Tommy Milton, showed the driver without a helmet.
When the winners began to be added annually after 1936, most were depicted wearing a helmet until 1971. Co-winner Floyd Davis, who won the 1941 race with Mauri Rose, was shown without a helmet, while Rose was. By 1946, most were shown without their goggles. Sam Hanks' 1957 likeness is the final to feature goggles. The likeness of 1970 Indy 500 winner Al Unser, Sr. is the last to be sculpted wearing a helmet. When Unser won again the following year, his 1971 liknessess was shown with natural hair.
In 1938, theives stole the trophy from a hotel room, leaving a ransom note. Two days later, the trophy reappeared in the same room unharmed. The perpetrators were never caught.
In 1969, the trophy was placed on the rear of winner Mario Andretti's engine. After a few minutes, the red-hot exhaust heated the trophy to over 150 degrees. A pair of asbestos gloves were needed to remove it from the car.
The likeness of 1986 winner Bobby Rahal originally featured glasses, which Rahal wore at the time. The glasses have since been removed. Tom Sneva, the 1983 winner, insisted his likeness include glasses.
Prior to the 1986 Indy 500, 1985 winner Danny Sullivan's face was added to the trophy, leaving only one empty square remaining. In celebration of the trophy's 50th anniversary, a new three-row base was added to the trophy prior to the month of May 1986. It featured room for an additional 18 faces. On the base, a gold likeness of the late Speedway president Tony Hulman was added. The trophy spent the month of May 1986 with one empty square left on the body, and now room for 17 additional winners on the base. The base would have enough room for winners through 2003. Bobby Rahal won the 1986 race, and was the final likeness added to the body of the trophy. The base increased the height of the trophy to 55 inches, and the weight to about 95 pounds.
1987 Indy 500 winner Al Unser, Sr. became the first race winner to have his likeness added to the first base of the trophy. Unser also became the first winner to have likenesses on the body of the trophy (1970, 1971, 1978) and the base (1987).
In the fall of 1991, the trophy underwent a complete restoration. After consulting with several experts, the decision was made to make necessary repairs. Gorham, Inc. of Rhode Island, who built the trophy originally, was chose to do the work. Expert silversmith Werner Leyh and chaser Samual Abaga spent two months hand-reconditioning the trophy. All of the faces were removed, the handles were repaired, a crack was fixed, and the lettering was redone. The opportunity arose to fix the spelling of 1950 winner Johnnie Parsons, as it had been misspelled "Johnny" for over forty years. However, the decision was made not to change it. A reinforced rim was also added to the base for stability. The refurbishment increased the height of the trophy to 60 inches, and the weight to over 110 pounds.
Following the 2003 race the base added in 1986 was removed and replaced with a similiar one. It consisted of five rows of tweleve squares, featuring room for 48 faces. The likenesses of the winners from 1987-2002, along with that of the late Speedway President Tony Hulman, were relocated to the new base. The likeness of 2003 winner Gil de Ferran was the first new face to be added to the new base. As of May 2007, there are 27 empty squares remaining on the base, enough for winners through 2033. The new base added at least 15 pounds and more than 4 inches to the trophy, which now stands at 64½ inches, and weighs nearly 150 pounds.
Through 1985, when the trophy had no base, it was common for it to be easily carried by one person. After the base, and the additional weight was added, the trophy required two people to lift it.
In 1936, Indy 500 winner Louis Meyer was personally awarded a bonus of $100 per month for an entire year. That compared to his base purse of $17,000 for winning the race.
The Borg-Warner Trophy is current insured for at least $1.5 million and is on permanent display at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame Museum. Winners of the race current receive a trophy replica and a cash prize of $130,000. In 1996, a $20,000 bonus was offered for a driver winning back-to-back Indy 500s. If the bonus was not won, the money was rolled over into the following year. In 2002, Helio Castroneves won a rolled-over bonus of $120,000 for winning the 2001-2002 races.
In 1953, Butler University basketball player Jack Mackenzie was hired to handle the trophy during the month of May. He would hold the position for until 1982. One day early on, Mackenzie took the trophy back to his fraternity house, only to find it with the top off and filled with beer as a prank by his friends. Incidently, it apparently held 48 cans worth.
Currently, Borg-Warner Chairman and CEO Tim Manganello awaits the race winner in victory lane to present the Borg-Warner Trophy. Manganello also actively participates in the presentation of the "Baby Borg" trophies in the winter off-season.
The likeness of 1989 Indy 500 winner Emerson Fittpaldi was created by Louis Feron, using the repassé technique. Feron used a single flat sheet of silver and painstakingly hammered it into the shape of Fittipaldi's face.
Since 1990, talented American sculptor William Behrends has created the likenesses of every winning driver. Behrends utilizes the lost-wax process. He meets with each winner after the race, and molds his creations based on several photos taken of the winner.
The Borg-Warner Trophy has been exclusively featured on the cover of the Indianapolis 500 Official Program in 1981, 1998, and 2002. It also appeared on the cover in lesser prevalence in 1988, 1996, and 2006.
Legend says that if one holds their ear to the trophy, the sound of Louis Meyer crossing the finish line can be heard.
In 1993, someone bumped into the trophy during the month, and broke the miniature glasses afixed to the likeness of 1986 winner Bobby Rahal. The glasses were repaired and reattched. The incident perhaps was an omen for Rahal, as he unfortunately was bumped from the starting field and failed to qualify for the 1993 race.
During the 2006 Indianapolis 500, defending champion Dan Wheldon wore a helmet specially painted with a Borg-Warner Trophy design theme on the side.
The Borg-Warner Trophy is a registered trademark of Borg-Warner Corporation. Some of this information was researched from the Indianapolis 500 Official Program (1981, 1987, 1988 1992, 2002), and indy500.com.

Previous Winners of the Borg-Warner Championship Driver’s Trophy: "Baby Borg" (Since 1988)

1988: Rick Mears
1989: Emerson Fittipaldi
1990: Arie Luyendyk
1991: Rick Mears
1992: Al Unser, Jr.
1993: Emerson Fittipaldi
1994: Al Unser, Jr.
1995: Jacques Villeneuve
1996: Buddy Lazier
1997: Arie Luyendyk
1998: Eddie Cheever, Jr.
1999: Kenny Brack
2000: Juan Pablo Montoya
2001: Helio Castroneves
2002: Helio Castroneves
2003: Gil de Ferran
2004: Buddy Rice
2005: Dan Wheldon
2006: Sam Hornish, Jr.
2007: Dario Franchitti
2008: Scott Dixon
2009: Helio Castroneves
2010: Dario Franchitti
2011: Dan Wheldon**

**-Note: Dan Wheldon was killed during the 2011 IZOD IndyCar World Championships on October 16, 2011. The trophy presentation was tentatively scheduled for early January 2012, and Wheldon had not yet received the trophy. It is expected that family and/or team members will accept on his behalf.

Previous Winners of the Borg-Warner Team Owner's Trophy: "Baby Borg" (Since 1997)

1997: Fred Treadway
1998: Eddie Cheever, Jr.
1999: A.J. Foyt
2000: Chip Ganassi
2001: Roger Penske
2002: Roger Penske
2003: Roger Penske
2004: Bobby Rahal & David Letterman
2005: Michael Andretti & Kim Green
2006: Roger Penske
2007: Michael Andretti & Kim Green
2008: Chip Ganassi
2009: Roger Penske & Tim Cindric
2010: Chip Ganassi
2011: Bryan Herta & Steve Newey (to be presented in early 2012)

Winning drivers from 1936-1987, (1987 winner Al Unser, Sr. being the last), would receive a two-foot sterling silver replica of the trophy mounted upright on a walnut plaque. Some early versions were flat, with various silver bordering and decorative designs. More recent versions protruded outward as 3-dimensional models of the trophy. None of the replicas included any faces, and represented the trophy, blank, with no base. In some years, the winning owner was presented with a wooden plaque or similar keepsake. Some winners and winning owners during that period also had an actual trophy replica privately sculpted for personal display. In many instances, the awards won during the race wound up going to the owner of the entry, thus some winning drivers were not able to enjoy a replica as a keepsake.

Starting with 1988 winner Rick Mears, Indy 500 winning drivers have been presented with the 14-inch sterling silver Championship Driver's Trophy, a replica of the Borg-Warner Trophy affectionately called the "Baby Borg." Borg-Warner found it appropriate to begin providing a worthwhile keepsake that the winning driver was assured of keeping for himself. Each replica weighs five pounds and is now worth $30,000. It rests on a removable 4 inch by 8 inch beveled black marble base, which features an exact replica of the sculpted likeness of the winner's face that appears on the real Borg-Warner Trophy. Mears was presented his "Baby Borg" during a small ceremony on the pit lane during activities of the 1989 Indy 500. At the time, it was worth $25,000.

Winning owners since the 1997 race have also been presented with a "Baby Borg," starting with Fred Treadway, who was the winning owner in 1997. Named the Borg-Warner Team Owner's Trophy, it was established in the spring of 1998 to celebrate the company's 70th year as an innovator in the automotive industry. When two or more individuals are listed as the winning owner, each receives their own "Baby Borg," such as Bobby Rahal and David Letterman, co-owners of the 2004 winning car. The winning owner's trophy is on a round base, and does not include the likeness of the winning driver. With the addition of the owner's trophy, both the winning driver and the winning owner(s) are provided with keepsake trophies respectively.

Recent Presentations

On April 9, 1998, Arie Luyendyk's likeness was unvieled for his 1997 Indy 500 victory at the New York International Auto Show. It had been completed in January. Luyendyk was presented with a "Baby Borg," and winning car owner Fred Treadway became the first recipient of the winning owner's "Baby Borg."

On March 4, 1999, Eddie Cheever, Jr. was presented with a "Baby Borg" for his victory in the 1998 Indianapolis 500. The presentation was held at the 1999 Society of Automotive Engineers International Congress and Exposition in Detroit.

On April 15, 2002, Helio the likeness of Helio Castroneves, the 2001 Indy 500 winner, was unveiled on the Borg-Warner Trophy. The ceremony took place at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame museum. Castroneves joked to the audience that the likeness "looks like I'm going 220 mph without a helmet." The ticket design for the 2002 race was also displayed. On May 25, 2002, Helio Castroneves was presented with a "Baby Borg" for his victory in the 2001 Indianapolis 500. The presentation was part of the Public Drivers' Meeting the day before the 2002 Indy 500.

On January 21, 2003, the likeness of 2002 Indy 500 winner Helio Castroneves was unveiled during a ceremony at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame Museum. The likeness represented Castroneves' second win in a row (2001-2002), the first driver to do so since Al Unser in 1970-1971. A new likeness was reportedly sculpted for 2002, rather than simply making another copy of the 2001 likeness. Castroneves joked to the audience that "the guy right beside me [the 2001 likeness] is better looking than the other one."

On January 15, 2004 Gil de Ferran, the 2003 Indy 500 winner was presented with a "Baby Borg" at the 2004 Automotive News World Congress Gala Dinner. Car owner Roger Penske was also presented with the award, although he was unable to attend in person.

On January 12, 2005 the likeness of 2004 Indy 500 winner Buddy Rice was reveiled during a ceremony at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame Museum. Rice was also presented with his Champion of Champions ring. A week later, on January 19, Rice, along with car owners Bobby Rahal and David Letterman were presented each with a "Baby Borg" at the 2005 Automotive News World Congress Gala Dinner in Dearborn, Michigan. The following night, Letterman proudly displayed the replica trophy on his desk for the taping of his popular Late Show with David Letterman on CBS.

On January 18, 2006, Dan Wheldon the 2005 Indy 500 winner, along with team owners Michael Andretti and Kim Green were presented each with a "Baby Borg" during the 2006 Automotive News World Congress Gala in Dearborn, Michigan. A day later, on January 19, Wheldon attended a ceremony at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame Museum to reveal his likeness added to the Borg-Warner Trophy, along with the 2006 Indy 500 ticket.

On January 9, 2007, the likeness of 2006 Indy 500 winner Sam Hornish, Jr. was unveiled during a ceremony at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame Museum. Hornish also received his Champion of Champions ring. About a week later, on January 17, 2007, Hornish and car owner Roger Penske were presented with their respective "Baby Borg" trophies. The ceremony took place at the 2007 Automotive News World Congress Gala Dinner in Dearborn, Michigan.

On January 12, 2008, the likeness of 2007 Indy 500 winner Dario Franchitti was officially unveiled during the Shav Glick Newsmakers Forum at the AARWBA Auto Racing All-America Team Banquet in Indianapolis. Frachitti was also presented with his Champion of Champions ring. During the Public Drivers' Meeting on Saturday May 24, 2008, winning car owner Michael Andretti was presented with his owner's "Baby Borg."

On January 6, 2009, the likeness of 2008 Indy 500 winner Scott Dixon was officially unveiled during a press conference at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Dixon was also presented with his Champion of Champions ring. Dixon received his "Baby Borg" on April 22, 2009 at the Society of Automotive Engineers World Congress on in Detroit. Car owner Chip Ganassi also received his owner's "Baby Borg" at the SAE conference.

On January 12, 2010, the 2009 race winner Helio Castroneves was presented with his Herff Jones Champion of Champions ring during a ceremony at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame Museum. In addition, his likeness on the Borg-Warner Trophy was unveiled. The following day, Castroneves and car owner Roger Penske were presented with their "Baby Borg" trophies during a ceremony at the Automotive News World Congress in Detroit. Peske Racing team president Tim Cindric (Castroneves' race strategist) was also presented with a "Baby Borg."

On January 12, 2011, Dario Franchitti, the 2010 Indy 500 winner, was presented his second "Baby Borg" by Timothy Manganello, chirman and CEO of BorgWarner Inc. during the company’s annual Indianapolis 500 celebration dinner in Detroit. Manganello also presented Target Chip Ganassi Racing owner Chip Ganassi with the BorgWarner Championship Owner’s Trophy. On March 18, 2011, Franchitti was presented with his Herff Jones Champion of Champions ring. Indiana Pacers President of Basketball Operations, NBA legend Larry Bird presented Franchitti with the ring during a special ceremony at Conseco Fieldhouse (home of the Pacers) in downtown Indianapolis.

Herff-Jones "Champion of Champions" Ring (Since 1983)

The first winner's ring dates back to the 1947 race, and was conceived by Thornton Bardach of Bardach Brothers, Inc. He presented it as a birthday gift to Wilbur Shaw (winner in 1937, 1939, 1940). Shaw then suggested it become an annual gift to every winner.

The current award was reorganized in 1983, and consists of a gold & multi-diamond ring awarded to the race winner. The current approximate value $10,000. The ring is crafted with the winner's name, and presented to the winner in early January following the race. Each winning owner and starting driver also receives a seperate ring.

Previous Winners
1983: Tom Sneva
1984: Rick Mears
1985: Danny Sullivan
1986: Bobby Rahal
1987: Al Unser, Sr.
1988: Rick Mears
1989: Emerson Fittipaldi
1990: Arie Luyendyk
1991: Rick Mears
1992: Al Unser, Jr.
1993: Emerson Fittipaldi
1994: Al Unser, Jr.
1995: Jacques Villeneuve
1996: Buddy Lazier
1997: Arie Luyendyk
1998: Eddie Cheever, Jr.
1999: Kenny Brack
2000: Juan Montoya
2001: Helio Castroneves
2002: Helio Castroneves
2003: Gil de Ferran
2004: Buddy Rice
2005: Dan Wheldon
2006: Sam Hornish, Jr.
2007: Dario Franchitti
2008: Scott Dixon
2009: Helio Castroneves
2010: Dario Franchitti
2011: Dan Wheldon**

**-Note: Dan Wheldon was killed during the 2011 IZOD IndyCar World Championships on October 16, 2011. The ring presentation was tentatively scheduled for early January 2012, and Wheldon had not yet received the ring. It is expected that family and/or team members will accept on his behalf.

PEAK Performance Pole Award presented by AutoZone (2010-2011)
PEAK Motor Oil Pole Award (2008-2009)
AAMCO Transmissions Pole Award (2007)
Worldpoints VISA Pole Award (2006)
MBNA Pole Award (2001-2005)
PPG Pole Award (1989-2000)
Budweiser/Starcraft Pole Award (1988)
Budweiser/Starcraft/Dodge Truck (1987)
Budweiser/Starcraft/Chevrolet Truck Pole Award (1986)
Budweiser/Komfort Koach Pole Award (1985)
Budweiser Pole Award (ca. 1982-1984)

While the pole position had always been held in high prestige with high accolades at the Indy 500, dating back to the 1910s and 1920s, for many years no official trophy or award was actually commissioned. Starting in approximately 1982, an official pole position award has been awarded to the winner of pole. Budweiser sponsored the first such award, and offered a $10,000 cash prize to the winner. By 1985, the award began to increase, and was complemented with a custom conversion van, sponsored by Komfort Koach, then later Starcraft.

In 1989, the award was reorganized. The PPG Pole Award was presented to the winner of the pole position at the Indianapolis 500 from 1989-2000. A new permanent trophy was created, and the winner was presented the prizes in victory lane at the conclusion of pole qualifying. MBNA replaced PPG as presenting sponsor in 2001. For 2006, WorldPoints VISA replaced now-defunct MBNA as sponsor, after MBNA was acquired by Bank of America. A related pole award was also given for winners of pole positions from the other Indy Racing League events. In 2007, just prior to the IndyCar Series event at Kansas Speedway, AAMCO Transmissions signed as the "Official Automotive Transmission Repair Company" of the IndyCar Series, and took over the award. On March 18, 2008, Peak Motor Oil announced they would be sponsoring the award. The winner receives $100,000 and a glass trophy. Currently the other front row starters receive cash awards as well ($25,000 and $10,000 respectively). The original permanent trophy is displayed at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame Museum. Through 2006, in addition to the pole award, PPG and MBNA distributed $495,000 among all 33 starters, and all 33 starters received a Starting Drivers' Ring.

In 2010, pole position qualifying was re-organized to include a nine-driver "shootout" format, with PEAK continuing their sponsorship.

Previous Winners
1982: Rick Mears ($10,000)
1983: Teo Fabi
1984: Tom Sneva
1985: Pancho Carter ($20,000)
1986: Rick Mears ($22,500)
1987: Mario Andretti ($25,000)
1988: Rick Mears ($27,000)
1989: Rick Mears
1990: Emerson Fittipaldi
1991: Rick Mears
1992: Roberto Guerrero
1993: Arie Luyendyk
1994: Al Unser, Jr.
1995: Scott Brayton
1996: Scott Brayton
1997: Arie Luyendyk
1998: Billy Boat
1999: Arie Luyendyk
2000: Greg Ray
2001: Scott Sharp
2002: Bruno Junquiera
2003: Helio Castroneves
2004: Buddy Rice
2005: Tony Kanaan
2006: Sam Hornish, Jr.
2007: Helio Castroneves
2008: Scott Dixon
2009: Helio Castroneves
2010: Helio Castroneves
2011: Alex Tagliani

Komfort Koach / Starcraft Conversion Van Pole Award (1985-2002)

Sponsored by Starcraft, custom conversion van (approximate value $40,000 in 2002) awarded to pole position winner.

Previous Winners
1985: Pancho Carter ($22,500 Komfort Koach van)
1986: Rick Mears ($25,000 van)
1987: Mario Andretti ($30,000 van)
1988: Rick Mears ($30,000 van)
1989: Rick Mears
1990: Emerson Fittipaldi
1991: Rick Mears
1992: Roberto Guerrero
1993: Arie Luyendyk
1994: Al Unser, Jr.
1995: Scott Brayton
1996: Tony Stewart
1997: Arie Luyendyk
1998: Billy Boat
1999: Arie Luyendyk
2000: Greg Ray
2001: Scott Sharp
2002: Bruno Junquiera

Borg-Warner Schwitzer Award for Engineering Excellence (Since 1967)

Named after Louis Schwitzer, this award is given annually for innovation and engineering related specifically to a car(s) entered in the Indianapolis 500 the year the award is given. It is presented by the Indiana section of the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) and is sponsored by Borg-Warner Automotive Co. Early in the month of May, typically during the first week of practice, about four or five nominees are announced. The winner is announced usually the weekend before the race. Since 2006, the winner(s) receives $10,000 (previously it was $5,000), a plaque, and has their name(s) affixed to a permanent trophy at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame Museum. A $2,000 scholarshipis also provded to the engineering school of the winner's choice. In 2008, the award celebrated its 42nd year.

Previous Winners
1967: Andy Granatelli (Gas Turbine Engine)
1968: Dan Gurney (Low Cost Racing Engine)
1969: Colin Chapman (Monocoque Chassis)
1970: Bruce McLaren (McLaren Chassis)
1971: Josef Karasek (McNamara Chassis)
1972: Dan Gurney (Eagle Chassis)
1973: Smokey Yunick (Stock Block Engine)
1974: A.J. Foyt (Coyote Chassis)
1975: Parnelli Jones (Parnelli Chassis)
1976: Roman Slobodynskyj (Laydown Offy)
1977: Bruce Brower (Automatic Clutch) & Bob Bubenik (Flat-8 Engine)
1978: Roman Slobodynskyj (Laydown Offy)
1979: Jim Hall & John Barnard (2K Chaparral)
1980: Geoff Ferris (PC9 Chassis)
1981: John Ward (Gurney Eagle)
1982: Geoff Ferris (PC10 Chassis)
1983: Vernon Gleaseman (Torque Sensing Differential)
1984: Robin Herd (84C March Chassis)
1985: Rob Kociba & Joe Negri (Buick V6 Turbo Engine)
1986: Mario Illien (Ilmor-Chevrolet Engine)
1987: Stuart Grant (Goodyear Radial Racing Tire)
1988: John Lindo & Ray Sorce (Carbon/Carbon Clutch)
1989: Anthony Purnell (Lola Computerized Dash Board)
1990: Tim Hasmer, Bill Simpson, Mike Held, Luciano Aguirre (Simpson "Beadall" Helmet)
1991: Don Halliday (Truesports All-American Chassis)
1992: Alan Mertins (Galmer Chassis)
1993: Nigel Bennett (Penske Chassis)
1994: Mario Illien (Mercedes 209 CID Engine)
1995: Don Nowicki & Chris Munroe (Tire Monitoring System)
1996: Dave Schnelker, Ning Wu, I-Fu Shih of Delco Electronics & Ed Rothrock of Bell Sports (Design of Racing EyeCue)
1997: Ed Keating & Roger Allen of GM Motorsports (Oldsmobile Aurora Engine)
1998: John Pierce (PEDS Barrier, Polyethylene Energy Dissipating System)
1999: Gian Paolo Dallara (Improvements to the Dallara Chassis)
2000: Paul Burgess (G-Force GF05 Chassis)
2001: Dr. Robert Hubbard & James Downing (HANS® Device, Head and Neck Support)
2002: Dr. Dean Sicking, Dr. Ronald Faller, Dr. John Rohde, Dr. John Reid, James Holloway; University of Nebraska-Lincoln engineering department (SAFER Barrier, Steel and Foam Energy Reduction)
2003: Gian Paolo Dallara (Dallara IR3 Chassis)
2004: Yasuhide Sakamoto, Steve Eriksen, Steve Miller, Steve O'Connor (3.0 Liter Honda HI4R-A engine)
2005: Delphi engineers Erskine Carter, Glen Gray, Andy Inman, Tim Kronenberg and Bruce Natvig (Delphi Earpiece Sensor System)
2006: Penske Racing Inc. engineers Thomas German, Justin Horning and Tom Janiczek (battery-operated, hand-held tool for quick adjustment of rear wing angle)
2007: Delphi engineers Erskine Carter, Glen Gray, Andy Inman, Tim Kronenberg and Bruce Natvig (Delphi Accident Data Recorder 3- ADR 3)
2008: Bishop Steering Technology engnieers Andrew Heathershaw, Soungjin Wou and Nick Belonogoff, along with Andrea Toso (variable ratio rack-and-pinion steering)
2009: Jeff Horton, IRL Director of Engineering (Head and Neck Restraint Extension add-on for HANS® Device)
2010: Charles Becnel & Patrick Luke (Mezzo Technologies), Christophe Marques & Tino Belli (Andretti Autosport) - Mezzo MicroChannel Radiator
2011: Roger Griffiths, Jim Goodloe, Marcelo Martinelli and Robert Bell (Honda Performance Development) - Honda Refueling Safety Interlock System

GTE Front Runner Award (1984-2002)

Sponsored by GTE, award of $10,000 to each front row starter.

Previous Winners
1984: Tom Sneva, Howdy Holmes, Rick Mears
1985: Pancho Carter, Scott Brayton, Bobby Rahal
1986: Rick Mears, Danny Sullivan, Michael Andretti
1987: Mario Andretti, Bobby Rahal, Rick Mears
1988: Rick Mears, Danny Sullivan, Al Unser Sr.
1989: Rick Mears, Al Unser Sr., Emerson Fittipaldi
1990: Emerson Fittipaldi, Rick Mears, Arie Luyendyk
1991: Rick Mears, A.J. Foyt, Mario Andretti
1992: Roberto Guerrero, Eddie Cheever, Mario Andretti
1993: Arie Luyendyk, Mario Andretti, Raul Boesel
1994: Al Unser Jr., Emerson Fittipaldi, Raul Boesel
1995: Scott Brayton, Arie Luyendyk, Scott Goodyear
1996: Tony Stewart, Davy Jones Eliseo Salazar
1997: Arie Luyendyk, Tony Stewart, Vincenzo Sospiri
1998: Billy Boat, Greg Ray, Kenny Brack
1999: Arie Luyendyk, Greg Ray, Billy Boat
2000: Greg Ray, Juan Montoya, Eliseo Salazar
2001: Scott Sharp, Greg Ray, Robby Gordon
2002: Bruno Junqiera, Robbie Buhl, Raul Boesel

Scott Brayton Driver's Trophy (Since 1997)

Named after the late driver Scott Brayton, who was killed during practice in 1996, six days after winning the pole position. $25,000 prize presented to the driver who best exemplifies the "attitude, spirit and competitive drive of Scott Brayton." A driver may only be awarded the trophy once in his/her Indy career.

Shortly after Brayton was killed, there was a movement to re-name the pole position award to the "Pole Award in Memory of Scott Brayton," but this seperate award was ultimately chosen. The award was presented continuously through 2009. In 2010, it was not presented, and speculation was raised that simply no driver could be found eligible (the award can be won by a driver only once). The award was not issued in 2011, and no formal explanation was given. No official announcement has been made about the award being retired, but it is considered dormant.

Previous Winners
1997: John Paul, Jr.
1998: Roberto Guerrero
1999: Eliseo Salazar
2000: Eddie Cheever, Jr.
2001: Davey Hamilton
2002: Arie Luyendyk
2003: Buddy Lazier
2004: Helio Castroneves
2005: Kenny Brack
2006: Sam Hornish, Jr.
2007: Tony Kanaan
2008: Vitor Meira
2009: Sarah Fisher
2010-2011: not awarded

NADA Milestone Award (1980-1993) & DowElanco Milestone Award (1994-1996)

$10,000 total, awarded to the leaders at miles 100 ($1,000), 200 ($2,000), 300 ($3,000), 400 ($4,000), sponsored by the National Automobile Dealers Association from 1980-1993. DowElanco sponsored the award from 1994-1996, and the total award was increased to $25,000. The permanent trophy was on display at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame Museum and had slots for winners from 1980-2000. The award, however, was discontinued after 1996.

Previous Winners

Year Mile 100 Mile 200 Mile 300 Mile 400
1980 Johnny Rutherford Tom Sneva Johnny Rutherford Johnny Rutherford
1981 Tom Sneva Gordon Johncock Gordon Johncock Bobby Unser
1982 Rick Mears Rick Mears Rick Mears Gordon Johncock
1983 Tom Sneva Al Unser Tom Sneva Tom Sneva
1984 Mario Andretti Teo Fabi Rick Mears Rick Mears
1985 Mario Andretti Mario Andretti Emerson Fittipaldi Danny Sullivan
1986 Michael Andretti Michael Andretti Bobby Rahal Rick Mears
1987 Mario Andretti Mario Andretti Mario Andretti Mario Andretti
1988 Danny Sullivan Danny Sullivan Rick Mears Rick Mears
1989 Emerson Fittipaldi Emerson Fittipaldi Michael Andretti Michael Andretti
1990 Emerson Fittipaldi Emerson Fittipaldi Bobby Rahal Bobby Rahal
1991 Michael Andretti Al Unser, Jr. Emerson Fittipaldi Michael Andretti
1992 Michael Andretti Michael Andretti Michael Andretti Michael Andretti
1993 Mario Andretti Nigel Mansell Mario Andretti Mario Andretti
1994 Emerson Fittipaldi Emerson Fittipaldi Emerson Fittipaldi Emerson Fittipaldi
1995 Michael Andretti Scott Goodyear Scott Goodyear Jacques Villenueve
1996 Buddy Lazier Davy Jones Davy Jones Davy Jones

Last Row Party (Since 1973)

The Indianapolis Press Club pays tribute to the drivers who earn the 31st, 32nd, and 33rd starting positions, the 11th and final row of the starting grid. An invitation-only dinner and reception takes place at the Brickyard Crossing Inn adjacent to the Speedway, and serves as a roast for the three drivers. In jest, the three drivers are awarded checks of 31¢, 32¢, & 33¢, a special jacket, and their names are affixed to a permanent trophy. Typically, only the drivers who actually "earn" the last three spots qualify, not drivers who are forced to the final starting position due to a substitue car or substituted driver. However, exceptions have been made over the years, and are not frowned upon.

Previous Winners
1973: Bob Harkey, Sam Sessions, Jim McElreath
1974: Bob Harkey, Jan Opperman, Larry Cannon
1975: Mike Hiss, Eldon Rasmussen, Tom Bigelow
1976: David Hobbs, Tom Bigelow, Jan Opperman
1977: John Mahler, Eldon Rasmussen, Bubby Jones
1978: Larry Rice, Gary Bettenhausen, Jerry Sneva, (Mario Andretti started 33rd due to substitution)
1979: Spike Gehlhausen, John Mahler, Eldon Rasmussen (Billy Vukovich II & George Snider added as 34th & 35th)
1980: Billy Vukovich II, Tom Bigelow, Gary Bettenhausen, (Tom Sneva started 33rd due to substitution)
1981: Scott Brayton, Tom Klausler, Jerry Karl, (Mario Andretti started 32nd, & Tim Richmond started 33rd, due to substitutions)
1982: Tom Bigelow, Pete Halsmer, Josele Garza
1983: Steve Krisiloff, Chet Fillip, Dennis Firestone
1984: Johnny Rutherford, George Snider, Dennis Firestone, (Chris Kneifel started 33rd, alternate)
1985: Derek Daly, Kevin Cogan, Rich Vogler
1986: Rich Vogler, Johnny Parsons, Gary Bettenhausen, (Mario Andretti, George Snider, Roberto Moreno, and alternate Dick Simon started 30th-33rd due to substitutions)
1987: Ed Pimm, George Snider, Steve Chassey, (Emerson Fittipaldi started 33rd due to substitution)
1988: Ludwig Heimrath Jr, Rich Vogler, Howdy Holmes
1989: Davy Jones, Pancho Carter, Rich Vogler
1990: Billy Vukovich III, John Paul, Jr., Rocky Moran
1991: Randy Lewis, Pancho Carter, Gordon Johncock
1992: Tom Sneva, Gordon Johncock, Ted Prappas, (Scott Goodyear started 33rd due to substitution)
1993: Jim Crawford, Didier Theys, Eddie Cheever
1994: John Paul, Jr., Mike Groff, Marco Greco, (Scott Goodyear started 33rd due to substitution)
1995: Scott Sharp, Stefan Johansson, Davy Jones, (Bryan Herta started 33rd due to substitution)
1996: Hideshi Matsuda, Joe Gosek, Scott Harrington, (Danny Ongias started 33rd due to substitution)
1997: Alessandro Zampedri, Claude Bourbonnais, Paul Durant (Lyn St. James & Johnny Unser added as 34th-35th)
1998: Stephan Gregoire, Mike Groff, Billy Roe
1999: Jack Miller, Robbie Buhl, Raul Boesel
2000: Billy Boat, Lyn St. James, Andy Hillenburg
2001: Felipe Giaffone (replaced Raul Boesel & started 33rd on race day), Cory Witherill, Billy Boat
2002: Greg Ray, George Mack, Mark Dismore
2003: Robby McGehee, Jimmy Kite, Airton Dare
2004: P.J. Jones, Marty Roth, Robby McGehee
2005: Jeff Ward, Jimmy Kite, Felipe Giaffone
2006: Arie Luyendyk Jr., P.J. Jones, Thiago Medeiros
2007: Roberto Moreno, Richie Hearn, Phil Giebler
2008: A.J. Foyt IV, Buddy Lazier, Marty Roth
2009: Milka Duno, Nelson Philippe, Ryan Hunter-Reay
2010: Takuma Sato, Sebastian Saavedra, Tony Kanaan
2011: Pippa Mann, Ana Beatriz, Ryan Hunter-Reay (Hunter-Reay was bumped, but was put in as a replacement driver for Bruno Junquiera)

100 Mile Per Hour Club

In 1925, Peter DePaolo became the first driver to average 100 mph for the entire 500 miles, winning the race. In 1935, Dave Evans conceived a "club" to be formed to celebrate the feat. It would be comprised of drivers who completed the entire 500 miles at an average speed over 100 mph without relief help. Through the early 1960's, once the winner crossed the finish line, the race was not immediately over. Within a reasonable timeframe, other drivers on the track were allowed to complete the entire 500 miles. A banquet was traditionally held, and recipients would be awarded a leather jacket. In total, 116 drivers were honored.

In 1964, MCA took on the task of airing the race live on closed-circuit television via theatres throughout the United States. Their request was to end the practice of allowing cars to continue the race after the winner took the checkered flag. In their view, for time-value purposes, it was not viable to keep the telecast going. The new rules would make such that perhaps only one new driver (or perhaps none) would enter the 100 mph club each year.

Facing complaints, an agreement was made for 1964 to limit the time to about five minutes after the winner crossed the finish line for other cars to complete the 500 miles. In the next few years, only a handfull of drivers were added to the club, and eventually it ended with only drivers through 1969 recognized. Al Unser, Sr. who had never managed to join previously, was not included after his race-winnings effort in 1970-1971 were never included.

Leaders Circle Club & Lap Prize Fund

Drivers who have led at least one lap during the race have been honored by joining the Leader Circle Club. In 1964, the award was originally organized as the "Autolite Indianapolis 500 Pacemakers Club," and was held in high prestige. Any driver who had led a lap in the race was honored on a permanent trophy at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame Museum.

The lap leaders during the race are also honored by the Citizens Committee Lap Prize Program. For each lap led, currently $450 cash is awarded. Each year following the race, every first-time lap leader, if there are any, is admitted to the Leaders Circle Club, and awarded with a jacket. Recent inductees include:

2005: Danica Patrick, Vitor Meira
2006: Marco Andretti
2007: Jaques Lazier, Jeff Simmons
2008: Ed Carpenter, Mario Moraes, Jaime Camara
2009: Ryan Briscoe
2010: Mike Conway, Justin Wilson, Will Power
2011: Alex Tagliani, J.R. Hildebrand, Oriol Servia, Bertrand Baguette

In 2011, J.R. Hildebrand became the 200th driver to lead a lap during the Indy 500.

50th Anniversary

An elite group of Indianapolis 500 winners have lived to celebrate the 50th anniversary of their first victory. The winner of the inaugural Indianapolis 500 (1911) was Ray Harroun, who retired after the race. Harroun was present in 1961 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the first race, and participated in the laying of a ceremonial "golden brick" at the start finish line.

In 2010, Jim Rathmann, 81, was presented with a special gold trophy featuring one of the bricks from the track surface to celebrate the 50th anniversary of his win in 1960.

Indianapolis 500 winners who have lived to see their 50th anniversary include:

1911: Ray Harroun (reached milestone in 1961, died in 1968)
1913: Jules Goux (reached milestone in 1963, died in 1965)
1914: Rene Thomas (reached milestone in 1964, died in 1975)
1928: Louis Meyer (reached milestone in 1978; died in 1995)
1960: Jim Rathmann (reached milestone in 2010, living)
1961: A.J. Foyt (reached milestone in 2011, living)

Both Rene Thomas and Louis Meyer reached the 60th anniversary of their first wins, with Meyer three years short of reaching 70 years since. A.J. Foyt (1961) reached the milestone in 2011. The day before the race was declared "A.J. Foyt Day" in his honor, and he drove the pace car at the start of the race. Parnelli Jones (1963) can reach the milestone in 2013, Bobby Unser (1968) can reach it in 2018, Mario Andretti (1969) can in 2019, and Al Unser, Sr. (1970) can in 2020.

Jigger Award: American Auto Racing Writers and Broadcasters Association

Award is named in honor of former driver Leon Duray "Jigger" Sirois. In 1969, rookie Sirois was the first driver out to qualify. After a couple laps, his crew waved off his run, figuring it to be unsatisfactory. A few minutes later, rain began to fall, washing out the entire first weekend of qualifying. Had Sirois finished his qualifying run, he would have been the only driver to qualify on pole day, and thus would have secured the provisional pole position. Sirois failed to qualify the following weekend, and in fact, never managed to qualify in his career. The award was created and given to the participant who experiences hard luck during the month, and often to the driver who is last to get bumped from the field. At times, the award is given to a more irrevrent receipient(s), in recognition perhaps to a peculiar event during the month.

It is awarded annually at the Indianapolis 500 AARWBA breakfast and is made up of a used, gold-colored metal whiskey jigger mounted on a base. The plaque is on permanent display at Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame Museum.

Previous Winners
1969: Leon Duray "Jigger" Sirois
1970: Tony Adamowicz (yellow light "accidentally" shown on his third qualifying lap)
1971: John Mahler (bumped by owner Dick Simon for sponsorship commitments)
1972: No Award
1973: Johnny Parsons, Jr.
1974: Al Loquasto
1975: American Auto Racing Writers and Broadcasters Association (for losing the trophy)
1976: Salt Walther
1977: Vern Schuppan (ran out of fuel on last qualifying lap)
1978: Larry Cannon & Roger Rager (both suffered qualifying mishaps)
1979: The Month of May- May it rest in peace (USAC & CART split)
1980: Janet Guthrie (waved off by car owner)
1981: Bob Frey (four qualifying attempts, all four failed)
1982: Geoff Brabham (sent to the back in the pack)
1983: Johnny Rutherford (crashed and did not qualify)
1984: Bill Alsup (left in line when qualifying was over)
1985: Chet Felip (crashed and then was bumped)
1986: Mike Nish (crashed while qualifying)
1987: Phil Krueger (mechanic and driver- a month to forget)
1988: Pancho Carter (two crashed, did not qualify)
1989: Johnny Rutherford (bumped)
1990: Salt Walther (bumped)
1991: Roger Penske (pulled Emerson Fittipaldi out of line on pole day, then rain came)
1992: Mike Groff (had to turn over seat to teammate Scott Goodyear)
1993: Robby Gordon (indirectly caused the retirement of A.J. Foyt)
1994: Mark Smith (bumped)
1995: Emerson Fittipaldi (waved off by Penske, then bumped)
1996: Two 500-Mile Races (Indianapolis 500 and U.S. 500 on the same day)
1997: The Guaranteed 28/8 Rule (IRL points rule backfired)
1998: Scott Harrington (did not qualify)
1999: Mike Borkowski (accidentally called the famous song "Back Home Again in Alabama")
2000: Roberto Guerrero (did not qualify)
2001: Raul Boesel (did not qualify)
2002: Billy Roe (qualified twice, bumped both times)
2003: Jeff Ward (lost ride after successful 2002 season)
2004: A.J. Foyt & Tony Stewart (for hinting at a qualifying run on Bump Day, but nothing happened)
2005: Arie Luyendyk, Jr. (first car bumped from the field since 2002)
2006: Marty Roth (three spins in practice, then wrecked before he could attempt to qualify)
2007: P.J. Jones (trouble setting up the car on Bump Day prevented Jones from being able to attempt a qualifying run)
2008: Mario Dominguez (three spins, three crashes, failed to qualify)
2009: Bruno Junqueira (qualified, but was replaced in the car on race day by teammate Alex Tagliani)
2010: Jay Howard (bumped at 5:45 pm, makes another attempt, was re-instated, withdrew, then was too slow to bump his way back in)

N.A.A.R.F.C. Tony Hulman Award

For unselfish devotion to the sport of auto racing. A plaque is on permanent display at Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame Museum.

Previous Winners
1977: George Carpenter
1978: June Swango
1979: Pat Vidan
1980: Tom Bigelow
1981: John Cooper
1982: No Award
1983: Donald Davidson
1984: Mary F. Hulman
1985: Tom Binford
1986: Tom Carnegie
1987: Robert Rowe
1988: No Award
1989: Joseph R. Cloutier
1990: Derrick Walker
1991: Jim Chapman
1992: Tony Hulman George
1993: Dr. Terry R. Trammell, M.D.
1994: Mel Kenyon
1995: Mario Andretti
1996: Rita Crafton
1997: Leo Mehl
1998: Foar Score Club, Inc. (50th Anniversary, 1948-1998)
1999: Mari Hulman George
2000: Dr. Pat Sullivan
2001: Vito LoPiccolo
2002: Hoosier Auto Racing Fans (50th Anniversary, 1952-2002)
2002: Central Auto Racing Boosters (50th Anniversary, 1952-2002)
2003: Brian Barnhart
2004: Bob Jenkins
2005: Bill Stone

Indianapolis 500 Oldtimers Club Past Presidents Award

A plaque is on permanent display at Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame Museum.

Previous Honorees
1963: Herman Deupree
1967: Harry Hartz
1969: Harry McQuinn
1971: Karl Kizer
1973: Dr. T.A. Hanna
1975: E.W. "Bill" Klein
1977: Herman Winkler
1979: Tom Carnegie
1981: Henry Banks
1983: Jack Beckley
1985: Clay Ballinger
1987: Raymond House
1989: Thomas W. Binford
1991: Duke Nalon
1993: Emil Andres
1995: Eugene "Jep" Cadou
1997: Jack L. Martin
1999: Richard L. Miller
2001: Robert J. "Bob" Cassaday
2003: Howard E. Moore

Louis Meyer Award

Named in honor of the first three-time winner of the Indianapolis 500 mile race (1928, 1933, 1936). Presented to those individuals who have contributed significantly to the continuing success of the Speedway. A plaque is on permanent display at Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame Museum. The winning candidate must be able to attend the ceremony and accept the award personally.

Previous Winners
May 1991: Mari Hulman George (Chairman of the Board, Indianapolis Motor Speedway)
May 1991: A.J. Foyt (1961, 1964, 1967, 1977 Indy 500 winner)
May 1992: Duke Nalon (fomrer driver)
May 1992: Johnny Rutherford (1974, 1976, 1980 Indy 500 winner)
May 1993: Roger McCluskey (former driver)
May 1993: Tom Carnegie (Speedway public address announcer since 1946)
May 1994: Rick Mears (1979, 1984, 1988, 1991 Indy 500 winner)
May 1994: Al Unser, Sr. (1970, 1971, 1978, 1987 Indy 500 winner)
May 1995: Mario Andretti (1969 Indy 500 winner)
May 1995: A.J. Watson (famous mechanic)
May 1996: Emil Andres (former driver, 500 Oldtimer)
May 1996: Chris Economacki (sports editor and broadcaster)
May 16, 1997: Herb Porter (famous mechanic)
May 16, 1997: Dick Simon (former driver, owner)
May 15, 1998: Thomas W. Binford (former chief stewart)
May 15, 1998: Arie Luyendyk (1990 and 1997 Indy 500 winner)
May 21, 1999: Jim Rathmann (1960 Indy 500 winner)
May 21, 1999: George Bignotti (seven-time Indy 500 winning chief mechanic)
May 2000: Rodger Ward, Sr. (1959 and 1962 Indy 500 winner)
May 2000: Ron Burton (artist, created 1985 program cover and other art)
May 2001: Parnelli Jones (1963 Indy 500 winner)
May 2001: Jack L. Martin (longtime Speedway employee, IMS Museum director 1979-1987)
May 2002: June K. Swango (longtime Speedway employee, secretary of Tony Hulman)
May 2002: Wilson D. "Bill" York (Speedway Media Center manager)
May 2003: Johnny Boyd (former driver)
May 2003: Rolla Vollstedt (famous owner), Johnny Boyd (former driver)
May 2004: Anton "Tony" Hulman George (Speedway president 1990-2009)
May 2005: Roger S. Penske (13-time winning car owner)
May 2005: Peggy Swalls (Speedway vice president of administration)
May 2006: Michael Andretti (driver)
May 2007: Roger Bailey, John Barnes
May 2008: Helio A. Castroneves (2001-2002 Indy 500 winner) May 2008: Lloyd Ruby (former drievr)
May 15, 2009: Louis Meyer, Jr. May 2009: Scott Dixon (2008 Indy 500 winner, 2003 & 2008 IndyCar Series champion)
May 2010: Chip Ganassi (Indy 500 winning owner)

Diana Fell Gilmore Behind the Scenes Award

This award is presented annually to a woman chosen for her personal dedication, support, and undying spirit "Behind the Scenes," in auto racing, best exemplifying the memory of Diana Fell Gilmore. A plaque is on permanent display at Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame Museum.

Previous Winners
1980: Evelyn Foyt
1980: Mary Hulman
1980: Shirley McElreath
1981: Jo King
1982: Cecilia "Cissy" Smith
1983: Anne B. France
1984: June Swango
1985: Yada Jacobi
1986: Championship Auto Racing Auxillary (C.A.R.A.)
1987: Norma Dusty Brandel
1988: Mary Lee Standridge
1989: Mari Hulman George
1990: Eleanor Vogler
1991: Valerie Bettenhausen Stephan
1992: Marie Hall
1993: Mary Owen/Marge Hauss
1994: Rita Crafton
1995: Marilyn Esken
1996: "A Day With the Race" (For Children with Cancer)
1997: Linda Holdeman
1998: Nancy King
1999: Wanda Devin
2000: Laura George
2001: Brenda Stafford
2002: Dana Capels
2003: Pat Johnson

Year	Mile 100	Mile 200	Mile 300	Mile 400
1980	Johnny Rutherford	Tom Sneva	Johnny Rutherford	Johnny Rutherford
1981	Tom Sneva	Gordon Johncock	Gordon Johncock	Bobby Unser
1982	Rick Mears	Rick Mears	Rick Mears	Gordon Johncock
1983	Tom Sneva	Al Unser	Tom Sneva	Tom Sneva
1984	Mario Andretti	Teo Fabi	Rick Mears	Rick Mears
1985	Mario Andretti	Mario Andretti	Emerson Fittipaldi	Danny Sullivan
1986	Michael Andretti	Michael Andretti	Bobby Rahal	Rick Mears
1987	Mario Andretti	Mario Andretti	Mario Andretti	Mario Andretti
1988	Danny Sullivan	Danny Sullivan	Rick Mears	Rick Mears
1989	Emerson Fittipaldi	Emerson Fittipaldi	Michael Andretti	Michael Andretti
1990	Emerson Fittipaldi	Emerson Fittipaldi	Bobby Rahal	Bobby Rahal
1991	Michael Andretti	Al Unser, Jr.	Emerson Fittipaldi	Michael Andretti
1992	Michael Andretti	Michael Andretti	Michael Andretti	Michael Andretti
1993	Mario Andretti	Nigel Mansell	Mario Andretti	Mario Andretti
1994	Emerson Fittipaldi	Emerson Fittipaldi	Emerson Fittipaldi	Emerson Fittipaldi
1995	Michael Andretti	Scott Goodyear	Scott Goodyear	Jacques Villenueve
1996	Buddy Lazier	Davy Jones	Davy Jones	Davy Jones