This year marks the 100th running of Indianapolis’ 500 Mile Race. When SCCA was formed in 1944, racing was not a part of club activities. The first SCCA race was held in the Spring of 1947. Still, members appreciated racing, and meets and rallies were an important part of early SCCA culture. An annual pilgrimage to Indianapolis became an SCCA tradition. Membership was still heavily concentrated on the eastern coast of the U.S. so members traveled in caravans to enjoy a full week of activities at the Brickyard.
During World War II, a ban on racing prevented running of the 500 from 1942 through 1945. When racing returned in 1946, SCCA’s tradition of a Rally at the Indianapolis 500 began. The following photos were taken by members during the event and were published in SportsCar Magazine.
To this day, many SCCA members make attending the Indianapolis 500 an annual tradition just as in the lead image.
Rudolph Caracciola
The 1 1/2-litre Maserati which was driven by Duke Nalon
Cockpit of the "Don Lee Special", a P-3 Monoposto Alfa
Mel Hansen's Offenhauser
Ted Horn's 3-litre Mazerati, Type 8CTF
The Grancor V-8 Special with Mercury engine
The 3-litre Alfa-Romeo which was driven into 6th place by Louis Durant
Rex Mays' Bowes Seal Fast Special
