IndyCar: Sunday afternoon update from Mid-Ohio

Looks like race day in Mid-Ohio is going to be beautiful after all. The teams are busy eating lunch and getting the final touches put on the cars. Some fans are watching the Indy Lights race now while others are moving to their spots to catch the race this afternoon.

I got an opportunity to talk with Pippa Mann at lunch. I asked her if she was planning on running Pocono with Dale Coyne Racing. She chuckled and said she had no idea at this time if that was going to be possible. She would love to drive there next month if given the chance. Even in light of the tragedy that happened last year with Justin Wilson's fatal accident.

I talked with some of the team guys after qualifying. Because the teams only get 3 seats of red tires for the weekend, it seems unfair to the fastest drivers that they have to use another set of red tires during the Fast Six session. It was suggested that the series allow an extra set of red tires for these drivers to be used during the fast six session and allow this session to truly be the fastest. Maybe this would be a good idea to give the fans a better show.

Kevin Savoree and Kim Green, co owners of Green Savoree Racing promotions, were out looking at the crowds in the Indy Car garage this morning. Both were smiling. "Our work is done. The rest will be the big show today", commented Savoree. Their company promotes the races in St. Petersburg, Toronto and Mid- Ohio. I would say they had a good turnout at all their races this past season.

Can Graham Rahal repeat a win in front of his home town crowd today? Or will Simon Pagenaud, who is still not moving very quickly after pulling a muscle in his back Friday, pull out a win from the pole. Don't expect Will Power, Scott Dixon or even Charlie Kimball to sit back and watch Pagenaud rake in more championship points.

Enjoy the race… Lucille Dust reporting from Mid-Ohio