"a celebrated fixture"

Since its founders built the Indianapolis Motor Speedway northwest of downtown Indianapolis in 1909, the speedway and the race -- which was first held in 1911 -- remain among the sporting world's most celebrated fixtures. And for many fans, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and the Indy 500 -- like Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Derby, and the Augusta National Golf Club and the Masters -- endure as unique institutions whose popularity surpasses that of their sports. Shown above is Ray Harroun who came out of retirement to win the first Indy 500 in 1911.