According to my calculations, today, January 10th the day with the most Indy winners celebrating birthdays. Several dates have 2 but Rodger Ward (’59-’62) Bobby Rahal (’86) and Eddie Cheever (’98) share this unique distinction.
Yesterdays “who is this” picture was of 1955 champion Bob Sweikert. Bob had 5 starts at the Speedway and led 86 laps on his way to victory in ’55.
Roger Ward was born in Beloit, KS. He had 15 starts between 1951 and 1966 winning twice. His best start was 2nd and he had 6 top fives to go with that.
Above, Rodger Ward Jr. shows me his Dad’s 2 Indianapolis 500 winners rings.
Bobby Rahal was born in Medina, Ohio. He had 13 starts at Indy from 1982-1995 winning in 1986. He led 124 laps in 6 different races and finished in the top 5 five times.
Eddie Cheever was born in Phoenix, AZ. He had 14 starts between 1990 and 2006 winning in 1998. He led 89 laps in 3 races with 4 top 5’s.