INDIANAPOLIS – For a sim racer with a passion for iRacing, factors that contribute to overall sim racing enjoyment include authenticity, excitement, and a challenge. Since the fall of 2019, Open-Wheels has been proud to provide just that while racing at Indianapolis.
Through the first two runnings of the Open-Wheels 500, drivers, commentators and motorsports veterans alike have made note of the event’s overall attention to detail, resulting in the closest folks like you and I will ever come to feeling the highs and lows of racing at the famed Brickyard.
From the grueling two-day qualifications process that whittles a field of more than 100 drivers down to 33, to the in-depth pre-race ceremonies that build anticipation as the green flag nears, the Open-Wheels 500 is truly the most exciting and pressure-packed “Indy” event in sim racing.
But don’t take it from us – listen to the words of those who have enjoyed the experience first-hand.
MICHELE COSTANTINI // 2019 OPEN-WHEELS 500 WINNER
This has been the best-organized event I have ever run in anything sim racing-related.
HUGO OLSSON // 2020 OPEN-WHEELS 500 WINNER
It was hard to comprehend that I was going to win in the last 3 laps… The whole month was a lot of fun and my favorite parts were the qualifying and the three-wide start.
RANDY CHENOWTH // RACESPOT TV COMMENTATOR
I think (the Open-Wheels 500) is the best private event that has ever been held on the iRacing service – and I don’t think it is even close.
JEFF DRAKE // TEAM TALENT DRIVER
This event was far and away the most fantastic iRacing event I’ve been a part of. The traditions, competition, and aura of the event has been something I have never experienced prior to this month. I’ve heard people say that this race contained arguably the greatest depth of IndyCar talent ever seen on the service, and I would have to agree.
ZACHARY CAMPBELL // TEAM I5G DRIVER
This year’s event has been one of the biggest, most well-run, most fun, and best races in iRacing history. I think could be a true turning point in what we see out of not only the IndyCar community, but the iRacing community in general.
YANG OU // SNAKE PIT DRIVER AND iRACING INDIANAPOLIS 500 WINNER
A massive thank you to Tanner for the immeasurable amount of time and effort that he has put into this event, which resulted in the most professional event I have ever participated in sim racing. It is extremely impressive. Top job the whole way.
BRADLEY WALTERS // SADI SIM AUTOSPORT DRIVER
The event as a whole was the best event I’ve ever participated in. The professional approach and every detail just made you feel as if you were participating in something real, and important. The race itself was probably the cleanest ‘500’ I’ve ever been in. The quality of racing on track was unmatched in anything I’ve done previously. I really can’t say enough good things about what this event has been for me, or the community as a whole.
ROB POWERS // KINETIC RACING DRIVER
The whole month of events was fantastic. Qualifying was stressful, the Veterans 100 and Pit Stop Competition were fun side events, and it was great to be a part of the Open-Wheels 500.
ADAM CRANE // SATELLITE RACING DRIVER
It was a great experience to be part of the event — the professionalism and attention to detail of everyone administering and participating was second to none. Look forward to participating again!
THALES TOLEDO // INDEPENDENT DRIVER
I made new friends and knew some great folks through this event. Open-Wheels put a great effort into it, and it almost felt like the real thing. A real professional job with what Open-Wheels managed to achieve with the event. I hope to make it again next year!
ANDREW WOOD // TEAM TALENT DRIVER
This event was even more exciting than I anticipated from start to finish. The prep, the camaraderie, the stress of qualifying, and the race itself was just incredible.
The 2021 Open-Wheels 500 will be shown live Sunday, November 21 on RaceSpot TV. Those interested in participating or sponsorship opportunities should contact Tanner Watkins at tanner@open-wheels.com.
