USA Travel Magazine

Celebrating 100 Years Of Racing At IMS and Top Colleges That Produce Indy 500 Finalists

The Indianapolis 500 is celebrating its 100th anniversary. Presented by PennGrade Motor Oil, this year’s race will unite race fans young and old for the greatest spectacle in racing at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. We’re excited to share some trivia from our friend’s at Study Soup, and news on the much anticipated, and always thrilling Indianapolis 500!

IMS is celebrating the event with a special edition of the Indianapolis 500 program on sale now for $25 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway retail locations including the IMS Museum and Indianapolis International Airport store, as well as shop.IMS.com. At 320 pages, this is the biggest volume ever published, which includes coverage that dates back to the very first race in 1911.

The program will also include a free Hot Wheels 100th Running diecast race car, while supplies last. Stories include a look at Roger Penske’s 50 years in motorsports, James Hinchcliffe’s comeback and the Holmatro Safety Team, IMS Then & Now: Project 100 as well as features on Scott Dixon, Josef Newgarden and Graham Rahal. Also detailed are 100th Running Host Committee events.

“The Indianapolis 500 program is one of the best souvenir programs in sports every year, and this year’s raises the bar as it celebrates our 100th Running, includes more stories and some really cool posters and keepsakes from this historic May,” Indianapolis Motor Speedway President J. Douglas Boles said.

“As a kid, I couldn’t wait to get to my seat on Race Day and leaf through the program and then spend the rest of the year reading and rereading it and I know many of our fans will be doing the same thing with this one.”

Multiple inserts are included in the program including a “100 Iconic People of the ‘500’” poster by artist Roger Warrick, a “Where It All Happened” poster and five frame-ready prints commissioned by five Indiana artists celebrating iconic cars of the “500.” Those artists are Gregory Beall, Kelly Bremer, Gary Dausch, David Lord and Darren Strecker, and their originals will be on display in the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum throughout May.

Getting To The Race:

Ticket information is available for all racing events at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway for – the Angie’s List Grand Prix of Indianapolis, and other races by visiting www.ims.com/tickets. Tickets are available 24 hours per day, seven days per mweek.

You can also call 800-822-INDY or 317-492-6700 between 8 a.m.-5 p.m. (ET) Monday through Friday. Or, visit the IMS Ticket Office at the IMS Administration Building at the corner of Georgetown Road and 16th Street between 8 a.m.-5 p.m. (ET) Monday through Friday.

Countdown To Racing At IMS Includes Keith Urban

The Indianapolis Motor Speedway and race fans are anticipating another thrilling season of racing and entertainment at the track. Each year IMS unites race fans from around the world for a spectacular series of races. And, along with the fast action on the track, they feature some of the hottest musicians like four-time Grammy winner Keith Urban, who will headline the annual Firestone Legends Day Concert on Saturday, the day before the Indy 500. Also taking the stage will be special guests, Dustin Lynch and Clayton Anderson.

“Firestone Legends Day has become an awesome way to celebrate the night before the Indianapolis 500 each year and having Keith Urban headline this year’s concert is going to be fantastic,” said IMS President J. Douglas Boles. “Keith’s many chart-topping Billboard hits, along with his appreciation for racing, will give thousands of spectators a can’t miss show to help celebrate the 101st Indy 500 Race Weekend.”

Urban’s songs have reached the top of the charts 21 times, most recently with current smash hit “Blue Ain’t Your Color.” Urban has recorded eight studio albums and is the first male Country artist to debut atop the all-genre charts in the U.S., Canada and Australia. He’s won both a People’s Choice Award and an American Music Award and has been nominated for a Golden Globe. He’s also won eleven Academy of Country Music Awards, has had five consecutive platinum or multi-platinum albums and is a member of the famed Grand Ole Opry.

Lynch’s self-titled debut album hit No. 1 on Billboard’s Top Country Albums chart. His lead single, “Cowboys and Angels,” exceeded platinum sales status while earning Lynch a legion of devoted fans. “Cowboys and Angels” became a modern day country classic, ending the year as one of Billboard’s Top 5 Country Songs of 2012. Racking up over 25 million views on YouTube/VEVO, soaring to #1 on the MTV Music Meter and selling 2.4 million digital singles, the Tennessee native brings a fresh combination of traditional influences and edgy intensity to the genre. His sophomore album WHERE IT’S AT, debuted at #1 on the iTunes Country Albums Chart and has tallied over 750,000 tracks sold to date.

Over the past four years, southern Indiana native Clayton Anderson has managed to do the unthinkable – he’s cracked into country music backwards, independently and with a fury.

Anderson has released three albums, including his brand-new project, Only To Borrow. Recorded in Los Angeles and Nashville, this six song EP was written and produced by Clayton and some of music’s most talented writers, musicians and producers. The album’s first single, “In the Dark” garnered immediate streaming activity online and captured the attention of influential music playlist programmers. Armed with new music and an electric live show, Clayton Anderson is not only here to stay, but a force to be reckoned with.

General admission tickets for the concert start at $40 and access to the Firestone Concert Pit near the front of the stage is set for $75. Prices will increase closer to the concert date. For tickets and additional information, please visit www.ims.com or call (800) 822-INDY. Children 3 and under are free to the concert.

IMS ticketholders can sign up to receive pre-sale information by clicking here. Details will be communicated via email this week.

Fans with tickets for the Firestone Legends Day Concert will be admitted free to Legends Day activities. Admission to IMS on Legends Day will be $10 for adults, with children 15 and under free when accompanied by an adult.

Other featured events on Legends Day presented by Firestone include the annual Public Drivers’ Meeting on pit road adjacent to the Tower Terrace grandstand, autograph sessions with the Indianapolis 500 starting field of 33 drivers and former Indy 500 drivers and an Indianapolis 500 memorabilia show.

Pagenaud Takes Pole For Saturday’s Angie’s List Grand Prix of Indianapolis

Congratulations To Simon Pagenaud: Pole Winner For Saturday’s Angie’s List Grand Prix of Indianapolis

Pagenaud turned a lap of 1 minute – that’s 127.832 mph in Firestone Fast Six qualifying to take the Verizon P1 Award, which is his second pole of the season.

“It’s fantastic,” said Pagenaud, who also won the inaugural Angie’s List Grand Prix of Indianapolis in 2014. “It’s not that simple, it’s a lot of work in the background. I just want to take my hat off to my engineer Ben Bretzman for giving me a monster car every time. Firestone also – as soon as I put those Firestone red tires on the car, she became magical, as we imagined. It’s a lot of fun for me right now, the whole team is functioning so well.”

The series points leader is on a two-race win streak, including a win from the pole three weeks ago at Barber Motorsports Park in his No. 22 Menards Team Penske Chevrolet.

Among the Firestone Fast Six are Charlie Kimball, who turned the second fastest lap at 127.286 mph in his No. 83 Tresiba Chevrolet for Chip Ganassi Racing Teams. Graham Rahal starts third after a lap of 126.918 mph in the No. 15 Steak ‘n Shake Honda of Rahal Letterman Lanigan with Theodore Racing. And, rounding out the top six were James Hinchcliffe, Josef Newgarden and Jack Hawksworth.

Will Power, who won last year’s Angie’s List Grand Prix of Indianapolis starts in 12th after failing to advance to the Firestone Fast Six, though he did set the track record with a lap of 1:08.6746 in the first segment of qualifying before failing to advance out of the second segment. “It was just a mistake, I touched the wall going into Turn 12,” Power said of his last qualifying lap in the No. 12 Verizon Team Penske Chevrolet. “I was on time, good enough to get there. I just locked up, went in the grass, got out of the way and was all over the marbles. We’ll do our best tomorrow.”

Rain or shine, you can expect a thrilling race at the Angie’s List Grand Prix of Indianapolis that goes green at 3:50 p.m. on Saturday!

Getting To The Race:

Credits: IMS

Tenba Creates Innoative Travel Solution for Photographers

For photogragher’s carrying all your gear can weigh you down. Thank’s to Tenba, there’s a solution; the BYOB Camera Insert. This creative insert converts any existing bag into a camera bag. This means no more lugging giant camera bags on vacations. Just insert your gear in the Camera Insert, then into any purse or bag, and you have a secure camera bag.

Tenba also has a collection of Packlite Travel Bags that are the world’s first packable, self-stowing camera bag. Combine the two and the packlite bags can be easily stored inside larger camera bags, backpacks and rolling cases, or utilized separately when a smaller bag is needed!

Check out the collection of gear by Tenba on their website.

Discover Asia’s Cultural Wonders On A Backyard Travel Tour

We love to travel off the well-worn path because you never know what you’ll discover. This is exactly what our friend’s at Backyard Travel do on trips throughout Asia; they help you discover the culture.

You’ll meet the people who live there, explore the natural beauty of the region, and have a chance to embrace the moment and join the ’Naked Dance’ at the Lhakhang Drup Festival, in which face painted performers bless and purify onlookers. The four day festival in Bhutan’s central-eastern district of Bumthang is a colorful and captivating display of a series of sacred performances meant to drive out evil spirits, and bring good luck to all. And, nearby are the fortresses of Punakha and Paro, historic sites in the capital Thimpu, or hike through Bhutan’s central valleys and spending time exploring remote Himalayan villages.

Another must-see is one cavers and rock climbers will enjoy – Son Doong is the world’s largest cave, and was discovered in 2009. This is a tour for fit travelers who love and adventure, and will be rewarded with a underground wonderland of stalactites, stalagmites, and slumbering lakes.

With Backyard Travel you’ll also explore Cambodian’s history in the north-eastern part of the country, at wondrous Preah Vihear, a World Heritage Site. Here you’ll discover the temple complex that has spectacular carvings and lintels, and is perched on the edge of a cliff with amazing views over the Cambodian jungle to the south.

Plan Your Trip

To explore upcoming tours available throughout Asia with Backyard Travel check out their website www.backyardtravel.com.

IHRA Joins The Performance Racing Industry Trade Show At Indiana Convention Center

IHRA Race and Motorsports fans get ready for a thrilling series of events from December 10-12 when the Performance Racing Industry Trade Show takes over the Indiana Convention Center.

Look for the IHRA crew in booth 3341, and meet attendees from all of the IRG Sports + Entertainment properties, which includes the International Hot Rod Association, Nitro Jam Drag Racing Series and company tracks like Palm Beach International Raceway, Memphis International Raceway, Cordova International Raceway, Maryland International Raceway and Southwestern International Raceway.

Drop by and check out the cars, products in the booths, and meet some of the racing industries top drivers, plus much more at the Performance Racing Industry Trade Show.

On Wednesday, the day before the Trade Show exhibits open, spend a memorable day at legendary Indianapolis Motor Speedway for an all-inclusive ticket price of $60. Check out news on this event by using this link.

Learn More About The IHRA

Check out the full schedule of events, upcoming race highlights, and more on the International Hot Rod Association by visiting www.ihra.com.

For news and ticket information for the Performance Racing Industry Trade Show visit http://www.performanceracing.com/tradeshow/.

Photo Credits: Performance Racing

Catch A Special Filming “Business Unusual” In Chicago This Weekend

Renaissance Hotels and Marriott’s Content Studio have partnered with Substance Over Hype to produce a new comedy short film, “Business Unusual”. This is the second film partnership between Marriott’s Content Studio and Substance Over Hype, who debuted Two Bellmen in March. “Business Unusual” will have a global multi-platform release, including a limited theatrical release, YouTube, and additional digital platforms.

The 12-minute film, shot throughout Chicago and on location at the newly transformed Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel, was written and directed by Daniel Malakai Cabrera and Caine Sinclair. The film’s executive producers are David Beebe, Dan Vinh, Daniel Cabrera, Scott Ehrlich, William Spencer, and Caine Sinclair. On the heels of “French Kiss” and “Two Bellmen,” “Business Unusual” is the third original short film produced by Marriott’s Content Studio. The studio has also produced two YouTube Series, “Hot Shoppe” and “Do Not Disturb”.

“Business Unusual” centers around two business travelers who have just arrived in Chicago to each present a sales pitch. The more pompous of the two characters, Chip, delivers his pitch first, and receives extremely positive feedback from the executives in the room. Following Chip’s performance, David nervously begins to present his pitch, when he is suddenly interrupted by one of the executive’s ringing cell phones and then asked if he can finish his pitch tomorrow.

David agrees and returns to his hotel room at the Renaissance Chicago. As he is anxiously preparing to complete his pitch the next day, he is persuaded by the Navigator downstairs to join other travelers for an enriching experience through food and beverage, music, and service. Here he has a chance platonic encounter with a kind, wise, and successful woman named Ella. David finds his groove and creates an extremely fun and clever campaign, focused on the use of a Rube Goldberg machine that ultimately lands him the account. The Rube Goldberg machine in the film was designed by America’s Got Talent quarter-finalist, Steve Price.

Plan Your Trip To Chicago

To explore current getaway options and packages available in the Marriott collection of Chicago hotels visit their website.

To plan your visit to Chicago, and find local events, attractions, and more to do on your trip go to the Chicago Convention and Tourism Bureau online at www.choosechicago.com.

For information on Illinois destinations, events and attractions contact the Illinois Bureau of Tourism at: 1-800-2CONNECT, or online at www.enjoyillinois.com.

Don’t Miss The Asbury Park Zombie Walk

Along the Asbury Park Boardwalk in New Jersey something has been stirring behind the scenes in anticipation of the Month of the Dead. And now the time has arrived for the Zombie’s to return for the annual Asbury Park Zombie Walk. This chilling event kick the first Saturday in October at the Convention Hall on the Asbury Park Boardwalk.

Zombies of every size will roam the streets, and wander along the boardwalk, are you brave enough to join them?

Later, join your friends at Johnny Mac’s House of Spirits or the Stone Pony where legendary artists like Bruce Springsteen, Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes, and Jon Bon Jovi have laid the foundation for the shore town’s reputation as a musical epicenter. Tour the local galleries or sample some rock and roll cupcakes or other treats and delicious menu items at local restaurants.

Join The Asbury Park Zombie Walk:

To check out news on the Asbury Park Zombie Walk, and get the latest updates visit their website.

Photo Credits: Asbury Park Zombie Walk

Keystone Resort Winter Fun and Events For The Whole Family

Family time on the slopes can be a challenge when each person has a different skiing ability. No problem with Keystone Resort programs that offer family private ski and ride lessons. Keystone’s program allows kids to enroll in a daytime ski/ride program, which gives Mom and Dad time to enjoy their on- or off-mountain adventure but gives the whole family a chance to reconnect at the end of the day.

It’s quality family time on the slopes with the added benefit of parents learning new tips and techniques from Keystone’s ski school coaches. In no time, the entire family will be on the right track, and skiing the trails together.

Keystone offers more than 1,500 choices for lodging year-round ranging from cozy bed-and-breakfast rooms to luxurious private homes, condominiums and hotel rooms. The Keystone Lodge, a Rock Resort , a Preferred Hotel, Zagat and AAA Four-Diamond establishment. Each offers guests beautiful mountain views, many amenities and excellent service. Keystone guests receive access to a pool or hot tub, free HBO and Disney Channel, free resort shuttle service, and kitchens and fireplaces in most condominiums, as well as free Adventure Passports.

Plus, you’ll want to join their annual events, that include Opening Day festivities, the beautiful Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Celebration, and they host unique events like the Get Stoked Winter Film Series with Level One’s Zig Zag.

Keystone Resort is located on Highway 6 off Interstate 70 just west of the Eisenhower Tunnel. Keystone Resort is a short, 90-minute drive from Denver International Airport and 70 minutes from the Vail/Eagle County Airport. Shuttle, rental car and limousine service is available from DIA. Rental car and chartered shuttle service is available from the Vail/Eagle County airport. A free resort-wide shuttle service transports guests to all lodging and activity destinations at Keystone.

Plan Your Trip To Keystone Resort:

For current ski condition, packages available, and to book your trip visit the Keystone Resort website.

For complete information on planning your vacation to Colorado, including lodging, attractions and activities, logon to www.colorado.com or call 800-Colorado.

Freddy and Jason Join Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights 25

They gave us nightmare’s, and now Freddy and Jason are back with a vengeance at Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights 25. They dare you to enter the “Freddy vs. Jason” house. Be warned, your worst fears come true on Elm Street, then you’ll come face-to-face with Jason at Camp Crystal Lake. Keep an eye out because Universal Orlando is haunted by more than Freddy and Jason, there are creatures lurking around every corner.

If you’re planning a visit to Universal Orlando don’t miss Halloween Horror Nights 25. Purchase your tickets, and prepare to be scared out of your wits, as mayhem and monsters take over the streets of Universal Orlando when the sun goes down!

To check out all the thrills, events, packages available, and news on Halloween Horror Nights 25, visit www.HalloweenHorrorNights.com/Orlando.