“We do things like bring air-conditioning units to the track, big fans,” Ruzewski said. “We keep the crew hydrated. We have trainers here that work with all of them and keep them educated on different things. At the track, they will keep reminding them on fluid intakes and electrolytes to keep them all working.
“We try to make it as good as possible. It’s a little difficult for everybody, but we make it work as best we can.”
While those in the IndyCar garage are focused on the competitive aspects of the Iowa weekend, they also realize the tremendous marketing and promotional opportunities this doubleheader creates for IndyCar.
“Hy-Vee has put a huge investment into this event as well as Penske Entertainment and they have really turned it into an event,” Ruzewski said. “We need those things people look forward to.
“I have some friends in Iowa and even last winter they were talking about going to the race this summer and the concerts. In some cases, it was the concerts and then the race, but either way it’s an event that exposes our product to a lot of people and creates a lot of new fans.
“What they have done is really good and I’m super excited to see how it continues this year.”
The efforts have transformed the Iowa Speedway event into one of the most anticipated weekends on the IndyCar schedule.
“When people ask me what track they should go to, there are a few that come to mind right away,” Ruzewski said. “Indianapolis, first and foremost. Long Beach is one of those you have to see it once to be part of it because it is historic and on the West Coast and it’s kinda cool.
“But Iowa is right there. It’s a good event. The concerts, there is something there for everybody. They have food truck areas, lots of stuff going on.
“It’s really a cool event.”
This story appeared in the July 19, 2023 edition of the SPEED SPORT Insider.
