May 26, 1974 – The words “Gentlemen start your engines,” was declared for the first time on a Sunday schedule at the Indianapolis 500. The Indy car race had traditionally been conducted on May 30 regardless of the week for almost 60 years prior.
In the great race at the old brickyard, it was Johnny Rutherford claiming the first of his three Indy victories. It got a little hairy for the racer though when oil from A.J. Foyt’s open-wheel racer flew back and landed on Rutherford’s windshield with 150 laps remaining making visibility extremely challenging for the driver.
Want to learn about Indy Car racing from a first-hand account? Listen to the Tim Coffeen Talks Indy car and Racing History podcast here on the Sports History Network.
To find more great daily sports history make sure to check out the Sports Jersey Dispatch and Pigskin Dispatch.
More From Sports History Network
Long Shot & Hot Favorites: Discussing Historical Super Bowl Winners’ Betting Odds
When the Philadelphia Eagles walked off the field of Caesars Superdome last February, very
The Future Is Now With George Allen
When George Allen became the new head coach for the Washington Redskins in 1971,
From Radios to Real-Time Streams:Soccer Fandom Through the Years
Soccer has always been more than just a sport and it’s a cultural force
Live Casino Games Complement In-Play Sports Betting During Halftime
In the live sports betting world of speed, momentum matters. Live gamblers on the
USC Trojans Rivalries That Define College Football History
College football thrives on rivalries, and few programs embody this tradition more than the
1990 NFC Championship Game (Giants vs. 49ers) – The Game That Ended A Dynasty
From 1969 to 2006, I was a big fan of NFL football. During those
How to Plan the Perfect Sports Trip to Portugal: Complete Guide
Portugal’s emergence as Europe’s premier sports destination isn’t just hype—it’s backed by real momentum.
Billy “The Kid” Martin : Hall of Fame Worthy or No?
Billy Martin was born in Berkeley, California, in 1928. His parents split up shortly