Behind-the-Scenes: Indianapolis 500 Historic Car Lap From 1912 racers to modern-era Indy cars, the IMS Museum's annual parade lap connects today's Indianapolis 500 to its earliest roots. A big part of what makes the Indianapolis 500 so special is its many traditions, giving it a special flair that makes the Memorial Day weekend classic stand out not only against motorsports events, but all of the sporting world. The traditions range from the pre-race pageantry—like the playing of "Taps" or Jim Cornelison's rousing rendition of "Back Home Again in Indiana"—to the on-track quirks that have carried on through several generations—the 11 rows of three, the blue and red pit wall signage, the famous "Yard of Bricks" that marks every 2.5-mile lap. But one tradition combines both: a fleet of historic cars taking a parade lap around the track on race morning. Prepared by the Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS) Museum restoration team, the selected cars span nearly the full breadth of '500' history (this year's participants range from 1912 to 2010), as well as drivers from races past, connecting the race's modern-day grandeur with the foundation it's all built on. "The pre-race of the Indianapolis 500 is so steeped in tradition, and it means so much to the fans, so to be a part of it is a very special opportunity," said Jason Vansickle, vice president of curation and education. "Unlike other sporting events, not just races, you don't really see that connection to its past as you do with the Indianapolis 500." To select the participating cars, museum staff first look at any anniversaries that coincide with that year's running, as well as the state of each car and whether it has run recently. While a good chunk of the museum's collection can run—Vansickle says about about 80% of its vehicles