Notebook: Indy 500 Bronze Badge Applications Now Available

Applications are now available for one of the greatest deals in racing: the Indianapolis 500 Bronze Badge credential, which grants you gate admission and garage access at the Speedway from May 7th - 27th, 2006. If you purchased a Bronze Badge last year, you should be receiving an application in the mail (I got mine a few days ago).

If you have not had a Bronze Badge in the past or did not receive an application, you can contact the Speedway at 317-492-6500 or by writing to: P.O. Box 24906, Speedway, IN 46224.

There are some important dates to be aware of:

• April 17, 2006 is the last day mail orders will be accepted.
• April 24, 2006 is when the Speedway will begin processing and mailing orders.
• May 7, 2006 is the first day Bronze Badges may be purchased at the IMS Credential Office.

It appears that the Speedway has added to or changed the language used on the application (don’t worry, it’s still English) to clarify that the Bronze Badge is NOT valid for ANY purpose on race day. It’s always been clear that the Bronze Badge would not be good for admission to the (hallowed) grounds on race day, but there was often confusion about whether the Bronze Badge was good for garage access AFTER the race on race day. The way it’s worded now, it’s clear that it’s NOT valid. Bummer.

Of course, along with the application you’ll need to sign your life away on the liability release form, and you’ll need to be at least 18 years of age to do that. You’ll also have to agree to wear a shirt and shoes at all times. They don’t say you have to wear any pants, but then they do say that admittance will be denied if your clothing is considered offensive, disruptive, or unsuitable for any reason so it sounds like they’ve got that “covered” so to speak.

So get yourself a Bronze Badge this year. Spending the $100 will get you to spend more time at the Speedway which you’ll thank yourself for later, you’ll get to feel important when you flash your badge to the “Yellow Shirts” on your way into the garage area, and you’ll get to see and hear a lot of cool stuff while you’re in there!