WRFH/Radio Free Hillsdale 101.7 FM - Back to the Brickyard: Episode 2

Episode Date: February 13, 2024

In this episode, we look back at 1937 and one of the most exciting finishes in race history.

Welcome to Back to the Brickyard, your spot for Indianapolis 500 History here at Radio Free Hillsdale, 101.7 FM. I'm Christian Papillon. In 1937, the speedway was partially paved with asphalt for the first time, allowing for new speed records. Jimmy Snyder ran a qualifying lap at 130.492 miles per hour, breaking the one-lap record from the previous year by over 6 miles per hour. Due to the timing of Snyder's run, however, Bill Cummings ended up taking the pole with a 10-lap-hour. average of 123.455 miles per hour, with Snyder starting 19. Snyder surged to the lead by lap 4 and led the next 24 laps until mechanical problems forced him out of the race after lap 27. Wilbur Shaw took the lead and led until his first pit stop on lap 74, giving

the lead to Ralph Hepburn. Shaw took the lead back 10 laps later and led until his second and final pit stop on lap 130. By lap 180, Shaw was in the lead again. and led Hepburn by about two minutes or one and a half laps. However, Shaw began to experience oil pressure trouble and began to slow. Hepburn, seeing that Shaw was in trouble, quickly unlapped himself and began to charge. Hepburn was right behind Shaw going into the final turn of the last lap. With nothing left to lose, Shaw floored the accelerator and held off Hepburn by 2.16 seconds. At the time, it was the closest finish in 500 history and a record that would stand for the next 45 years.

1937 was the last year that writing mechanics were required for all drivers. Although they would remain optional until 1964, no driver would ever use one again at Indianapolis. You have been listening to Radio Free Hillsdale 101.7 FM. I'm Christian Papuil, and I'll catch you the next time we go back to the brickyard.