INDIANAPOLIS — The Indianapolis 500 is easily one of the most recognizable races in the world, but did you know the Circle City was home to another big race? The Big Wheel 500.
Founded in 1978, the Big Wheel 500 was held annually at the ECLC Learning Center on Sherman Drive for more than 15 years.
Organizers wanted to help children ages 1-6 develop an understanding of the Indianapolis 500.
The race was divided into different age groups and each took turns pedaling around the asphalt parking lot of the learning center. The winner of each race was taken on a victory lap in the official Indianapolis 500 pace car.
WRTV reporter Derrik Thomas captured the pageantry and excitement of the second annual race held on May 18, 1979.
Former WRTV sports director Tom Carnegie may have been known as "The Voice of the Speedway," but in 1983, he and former sports anchor Brian Hammons called all the action of the Big Wheel 500.
Former Channel 6 reporter Linda Lupear covered the inaugural Big Wheel 500 in 1978.
