Testing for the Allstate 400 at the Brickyard began this week at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, but the real rush hours will take place July 11-12 and July 18-19. A total of 40 NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series drivers are scheduled to test on those four days, with 23 on track Monday, July 11 and Tuesday, July 12 and 17 turning laps Monday, July 18 and Tuesday, July 19. Testing will take place from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. (local time) each day, with a lunch break from noon-1 p.m. Fans are welcome to watch testing for free in the South Terrace grandstands, located inside the track between Turns 1 and 2. All drivers are testing in preparation for the 12th Allstate 400 at the Brickyard on Sunday, Aug. 7 at the Speedway.
The large number of drivers testing at IMS contrasts with the opening week of testing. Four drivers reigning series champion Kurt Busch, rookie sensation Carl Edwards, 1997 Allstate 400 at the Brickyard winner Ricky Rudd and 2001 pole winner Jimmy Spencer tested July 5, with just Busch and Rudd returning July 6. Busch was the fastest driver during that two-day test, posting a top lap of 180.208 mph in the #97 Crown Royal Ford. Speeds should be higher over the next two weeks, unless theres a drastic change in weather, due to the improved track conditions created by increased traffic. #8-Dale Earnhardt Jr., originally scheduled to test July 11-12, instead will turn laps July 18-19 along with Dale Earnhardt, Inc. teammate and reigning NASCAR Busch Series champion Martin Truex Jr.
See driver lineup for rach practice on my 2005 Testings news info Tickets: To purchase tickets, camping or parking for the 12th Allstate 400 at the Brickyard, contact the IMS ticket office at (800) 822-INDY outside the Indianapolis area, (317) 492-6700 locally or log on to www.indianapolismotorspeedway.com.(PR)(7-8-2005)
