Indy 500: the oldest and fastest race in the world

In 1910, one year after the birth of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, a decision was made to pave the entire track with over three million 10-pound (4.5 kg) bricks. This move was undoubtedly a statement of intent to continue the announced 500-mile race for many years to come. However, it wasn’t the most practical choice in case of rain, given the slippery nature of wet bricks. One might wonder if the American tradition of not racing in the rain – a tradition that is gradually fading away – is partly due to the decision to use a surface that’s far from ideal when wet.