The Monaco 500, Grand Prix of Indianapolis
Each year, Memorial Day Weekend gives us two of the most prestigious racing events in history. This year marks the 101st Indianapolis 500 and the 75th Monaco Grand Prix. These represent two of the three racing events that comprise the illusive triple crown of racing. The third event is the 24 Hours of Le Mans coming up in mid-June. Every year, this three day weekend gives us more racing than our significant others can stand. Saturday qualifying (F1) and then two races on Sunday. Pass the toothpicks for our eyeballs!
This year, the drama increases as Formula 1 driver Fernando Alonso participates in his first Indy 500 while skipping out on the Monaco Grand Prix. Alonso previously won Monaco in '06 and '07, so a win would put him one race away from achieving the triple crown. How rare is this feat? Only one driver in history has claimed the triple crown.
Graham Hill won Monaco 5 times ('63,'64,'65,'68,'69), the Indy 500 ('66) and the 24 Hours of Le Mans (72). Seventeen drivers have completed all three legs, but Hill is the only one to have accomplished it.
Triple Crown Winner Graham Hill.
Looking baller!