This Happened — May 30: First Indy 500

Updated May 30, 2024 at 12:15 p.m.

The first Indianapolis 500 car race was held on this day in 1911. The race is 500 miles long, and is commonly known as the "Indy 500."

Where was the first Indy 500 car race held?

The first Indy 500 car race was held at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in Speedway, Indiana, USA.

Who won the first Indy 500 car race?

The first Indy 500 car race was won by Ray Harroun, an American driver who drove a Marmon Wasp.

What was the prize money for the first Indy 500 car race?

The prize money for the first Indy 500 car race. was $27,550, with $10,000 going to the winner Ray Harroun. This was a significant amount of money at the time and helped to establish the race's prestige