INDIANAPOLIS — Marcus Armstrong’s No. 11 Honda-powered car will feature all the typical elements for this weekend’s Indianapolis Grand Prix — velocity, sponsors, and a fresh new paint job.
The young driver in his second year will also convey a message of optimism.
Chip Ganassi Racing revealed a collaboration on Thursday with the Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Cancer Center and Schwartz Partners to unveil a scientifically-inspired, crimson-and-cream paint scheme paying homage to cancer patients.
“As a family, we wanted to raise awareness for the center that doctor (Kelvin Lee) is associated with and to showcase the significance of having a facility like this in our community,” stated John Schwartz, the general manager of the family business. “We want people to understand the value of what we have here.”
This message resonates with Ganassi’s team and the 23-year-old driver from New Zealand, who competed in 12 races last season.
Jeff Schwartz, John’s brother, passed away in November after a battle with the disease. Jeff Schwartz had been the CEO of Schwartz Partners and he and his wife, Jill, had served as board members for the Simon Cancer Center since 2019.
Barry Wanser, team manager for reigning IndyCar Series champion Alex Palou, also underwent treatment for throat cancer towards the end of last year and missed the final races of the season. He rejoined the team this season following surgery and chemotherapy.
“It’s a topic that impacts all of us,” Armstrong remarked. “While watching a race serves as a great distraction from such matters, it is also a powerful way to raise awareness. This cause is particularly close to our hearts because Barry shared his diagnosis with me at this race last August.”
Armstrong secured five top-10 finishes in 2023, with a season-best of sixth place in Toronto. This year, he has expanded his schedule to include ovals and has achieved two more top-10 finishes in four starts, including a career-high fifth place in Long Beach.
Practice and qualifying sessions for the Indy GP are set for Friday, with the race taking place on Saturday on Indianapolis Motor Speedway’s 14-turn, 2.439-mile road circuit.
The iconic Indianapolis 500 is scheduled for May 26 on the track’s traditional 2.5-mile oval.
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FAQ
1. What is the significance of the crimson-and-cream paint scheme on Marcus Armstrong’s car?
The paint scheme pays tribute to cancer patients and serves as a message of hope and awareness for the cause.
2. How has Barry Wanser’s battle with cancer impacted the team?
Barry Wanser, the team manager, underwent treatment for throat cancer but has returned to the team following surgery and chemotherapy.
Conclusion
The partnership between Chip Ganassi Racing, the Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Cancer Center, and Schwartz Partners, symbolized through the unique paint scheme on Marcus Armstrong’s car, highlights the importance of raising awareness for cancer patients and the need for community support in battling the disease.
