The Official Blog of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway

Bobby Rahal with an emotional win in 1986

Donald Davidson discusses Bobby Rahal’s win in 1986

Fan of the Day- Eamonn Brandon

Since it is the day before the race, the camping lots are full of race fans. Of course, we decided to look for fan-of-the-day out in the camping lots. Almost every camper we saw could have been considered a super fan but Eamonn Brandon, who has been coming to the race since he was five years old, seemed like a perfect candidate. In the past he said he traditionally shaves his head to look like a checkered flag. Today we found him with a full head of hair but still the race car fan spirit we were looking for. Meet fan of the day Eamonn Brandon:

When was your first Indy 500?

Eamonn’s first Indy 500 was in 1992 when he came with his uncle. They hung out in the snake pit and since he was only a youngster, he felt like a grow up. He remembered it being so much fun, which prompted his continued love for the race.

Who is your favorite driver and why?

Eamonn’s favorite driver is Al Unser Jr. He said, “Al is the MAN! A god among men.” You could tell he was a die hard fan, explaining how Al was one of the greatest drivers of his time.

What is your favorite Indy 500 memory?

His favorite memory was when he was twelve and watched the race in turn one when Sarah Fisher wrecked with Al Unser Jr. He said Unser got out and made eye contact with him and he yelled “JUNIOR!” Unser then pointed at him and gave him the thumbs up. Eamonn  remembers being excited because he had a moment with his favorite driver but also because Al was okay from the wreck.

How should the Indianapolis Motor Speedway celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Indianapolis 500 next year?

Eamonn thought we should invite, of course, Al Unser Jr. to sing the “Back Home in Indiana” song.  He thought this would be a good place to make the race special, because before the race starts is a pretty exciting time, camping is only the pre-party.