Indiana Hoosiers head football coach Curt Cignetti is gearing up for a unique opportunity this weekend as he prepares to drive the pace car at the 110th Running of the Indianapolis 500. This prestigious role places him at the forefront of one of the most celebrated events in motorsports, and it’s a task that requires both skill and preparation.

Preparation for the Big Day

Driving the pace car is not just a ceremonial role; it has a direct impact on the race. The pace car driver must maintain the correct speed to ensure that the race cars can safely get their tires up to temperature. To prepare for this responsibility, Cignetti has been practicing at the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway, also known as the Brickyard. IndyCar has shared images and videos of Cignetti getting in some practice laps, honing his skills for the big day.

The vehicle he will be driving is no ordinary car. The pace car for this year’s race is a Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X, equipped with a 5.5L twin-turbo V8 engine that delivers over 1,000 horsepower to the rear wheels. Additionally, it features an electric motor that adds another 186 horsepower to the front axle, making it a formidable machine on the track. The car also sports a special America 250 paint scheme, adding to the patriotic spirit of the event.

Guidance from a Veteran

To ensure he is fully prepared, Cignetti has been receiving guidance from Sarah Fisher, a former IndyCar driver with nine Indianapolis 500 appearances. Fisher, who has experience as a pace car driver, is well-equipped to provide Cignetti with the necessary tips and insights to perform his duties effectively on race day.

As Cignetti takes on this exciting role, he joins a select group of individuals who have had the honor of leading the field at the Indianapolis 500. The event coverage will begin at 10 a.m. ET on Fox, where viewers can watch Cignetti and the Corvette lead the field during the pace laps.

Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.