Monday 19th May 1997

Troy Ruttman (67), the youngest winner of the Indianapolis 500, at the age of 22 years and 80 days, died. He led several of the 12 Indy 500s in which he participated, but was a frequent victim of mechanical failures. Ruttman retired from racing following the tragedy filled 1964 Indianapolis 500. His son, Troy Jr., became a race car driver as well, but was tragically killed at the Pocono Speedway in 1969 while driving the car his father drove from the 33rd starting spot to a 12th place finish in the 1963 Indianapolis 500.