Mario Still The Benchmark For Class

While it seems like just yesterday to an old gray beard like me, it has now been twenty years to the month that the greatest all around driver ever put a beatdown on Indy like nobody ever had in my life. In 1987, Mario Andretti was the quickest car everyday in practice, sat on the pole, and won the pit stop competition just for additional good measurement. On race day it looked like Mario would take the checkered flag and complete the dominant month with his second Indy 500 win. Just twenty laps from victory the ignition on the Chevrolet Lola entry failed leaving Andretti helpless in pit lane after destroying the field all day. When he dropped out Andretti was one lap ahead of second place Roberto Guerrero and two laps ahead of the balance of the entire field. While most drivers would have been in a funk afterwards, I still can remember the calm, collective, and respectful manner in which he dealt with the media following the race. Mario had nothing but praise for the Chevy powerplant, and even took the time to dispell any rumors about the Goodyear tire that had given some teams fits that month, by calling them impeccable in terms of their handling capabilities. But what was most impressive was how dignified this man was in a dark hour and how he skillfully responded to the countless questions from the throng of reporters camped out and waiting after the race finished. I often think his post race performance was just as impressive as his on the track efforts and that in itself could serve as a point of reference for the many drivers today who are prone to throwing tantrums after a tough day at the track. Despite his frustration Andretti demonstrated the demeanor of a champion and gave us all a lesson in terms of dignity, style and grace. Should you see him at IMS this month, take time to greet him and thank him for setting a standard off the track that equals his greatness upon it. Danny Bridges