They replaced Jimmy Vasser and defending Indianapolis 500 champion Juan Montoya. He only was required to complete a refresher test consisting of the final two phases since he completed his rookie test last year. Although Mears is a rookie in the Indy Racing Northern Light Series, he completed his Indy 500 rookie test last year and already has received his clearance. Newcomer Cory Witherall recorded his first laps in the afternoon and managed to pass three of the four phases. ROP resumes tomorrow at 9 a.m.
Spectators are welcome to watch free of charge.
Seating will be available in the South Terrace bleachers on the inside of the track adjacent to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame Museum. He'll just have one to do tomorrow, but he's still cleared for May. I was very happy to see him get all four phases completed. Everybody went through all the phases without any problems. It's good to get those guys out there getting laps.