Every driver must pass Indy orientation program — even an Andretti

“He knows I will be in the car with him."
– Mario Andretti

Mario Andretti remains in close proximity to the pit stand, listening to the radio chatter and periodically checking Timing and Scoring data as his grandson, Marco, clicks off lap after practice lap. The racing family patriarch keeps a watchful eye on his progeny.

It was true two decades ago, when Michael and then Jeff made their way to compete in the Indianapolis 500. Mario joined both in the 33-car field for “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing" – Michael 10 times from 1984-94 and Jeff three times from 1991-94. Now the 1969 500-Mile Race winner is focused on assisting 19-year-old rookie Marco in the highly competitive IndyCar Series mix of high-speed ovals and street/road courses.

The series’ crown jewel May 28 presents its own learning curve packed into three weeks of excitement, drama and pressure. It begins May 7 for Marco and other rookies, who must pass the formal Rookie Orientation Program on the racetrack (four-stage progression of speed and consistency) to join the field for practice May 9. It also allows drivers new to the Speedway the opportunity to sort out the nuances of the 2.5-mile oval before running in traffic.

“He has a great team and his dad is always going to be right by his side," Mario said. “He knows he doesn't have to go out there and set the world on fire right away. He has the luxury of having a secure job and he can be totally relaxed and that's very important."

Andretti didn’t have such a luxury when he was a rookie at the Speedway in 1965. By head-butting expectations, he started fourth and finished third. The next two years, he started on the pole. The ’69 victory cemented his enduring international celebrity. More at IndyCar.com