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Scott Sharp has started the Indy 500 from the pole position previously, but he has never been more delighted to simply secure a spot in the field than after today’s high drama second day of qualifying.
After withdrawing his first qualifying run, then being bumped from the field by AJ Foyt IV, the Tequila Patron driver made one final attempt to secure his 14th Indianapolis 500 start - leaving the line with 23 seconds remaining in the day.
After his two previous runs had come up short, the Panther Racing crew made further changes - taking even more downforce out of the car - and the inaugural IndyCar Series co-champion held his nerve to record a four lap average of 222.162mph to qualify 20th and push EJ Viso from the field.
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With only six minutes remaining, Sharp sat aboard the #16 Tequila Patron/Muscle Milk entry with four cars ahead of him in the qualifying line.
The 13-time Indy starter began to run through the extensive planning he would have to undertake to fly back and forth from his American Le Mans Series duties in Salt Lake City next weekend for Patron Highcroft Racing to return to the Speedway for a Saturday qualifying attempt.
However, after Ryan Hunter-Reay’s attempt fell short, Alex Tagliani’s attemp was waived off and two cars pulled out of line, Sharp hit the track with seconds remaining and 10 miles later joined his Panther Racing team-mate Dan Wheldon in the field.
When the final 11 positions on the grid are filled next Saturday, Sharp will be in Salt Lake City preparing for the fourth round of the ALMS for the factory-backed Acura LMP1 squad alongside teammate David Brabham.
The ALMS race takes place at the Miller Motorsports Park circuit on the same day at Bump Day in Indy, May 17.
Sharp - who currently leads the LMP1 division points championship with Brabham - will then return to Indianapolis for the final week of race preparations.
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Scott Sharp
“I’ve never been more happier to be 20th! I’ve had some runs here in the past, but to end the day like we did was certainly very emotional and rewarding for everybody.”
