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A Century of Racing!
The 100th Anniversary Indianapolis 500® Mile
Race
A century…a lifetime…a profound legacy! Few
endeavors have ascended such lofty heights
transcending time and generations. Yet, such is
the Indianapolis 500®. Annually, its spectacle
drawing untold millions to witness the glory of
road hardened warriors pitting wit, courage, and
their beloved cars against the very laws of
physics as they hurl their way to victory and
join the pantheon of racing champions. Energy is
palpable and electric as drivers jostle their
respective mechanical steeds in a battle of
wills at the famed Brickyard. Securing its place
in the noble lore of the honorable and inspiring
Volunteer State, the Indianapolis 500 is much
more than a race…it is a testament to the
resiliency, determination, and character of our
great nation. Whether pitted against the
backdrop of inclement weather or radiant with
approving light, for 100 years the race has
captivated the imagination, beckoned future
racers, and inculcated itself as one of the
greatest sporting events in history. It is a
staple of every Memorial Day weekend and as
American as any tradition. Yet this year, more
than any other, it stands tall as a testament to
the resiliency of its fans and participants to
honor such lofty traditions irrespective of
challenge. For 100 years, we have come to
witness the harnessing of destiny, the creation
of champions, and the securing of an indelible
legacy!
As I painted my tribute to this
amazing race, I was moved by the imprint of time
on this event. Two years earlier, I memorialized
the 100th
Anniversary of this storied track with my image
entitled
Indy® Excitement, 100 Years of
Racing at Indianapolis Motor Speedway®. In
that tribute, I painted the perspective from the
multitudes of fans watching as their favorite
drivers sped through the oval. I honored the
history of the event with time-sequenced cars
being serviced in the pits, from oldest to most
current. Yet, in this image, I wondered at the
thrill of viewing the race at track level where
each of these amazing warriors would engage in
the challenge of winning this epic race. I paid
tribute to a century of competitors with
yesteryears car racing against today's elegant
machines. Along the track, the smoke and dust
reminiscent of 100 years of racing billows as
cars round the oval towards the
renowned-checkered flag. Adjacent to the track,
fans spanning generations and attired in
appropriate garb, gather collectively willing
their champions to victory all the while feeling
the sonic impact of each lap and wincing at the
roar of passing cars. In the horizon, sunlight
gently adorns the clouds as sun approvingly sets
on this year's coronation of Indy's latest
champion... what a legacy is this greatest of
races. Kudos, Indy for 100 years of thrills
slowly and annually acquiescing to the storied
checkered flag!
Thomas Kinkade |
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