2011 Indy Mile Cancelled

Indy Mile officials have decided to cancel this year’s AMA Flat Track round due to the continuing investigation into the fatal stage rigging accident at the Indiana State Fair.

The Aug. 13 tragedy killed five people and injured dozens after winds reaching as high as 70 mph caused the stage to collapse.

The ongoing investigation has closed the grandstand and one-mile dirt track, forcing the cancellation of the Indy Mile.

“Losing a round is nothing compared to the loss of life,” says Dan Johnsen, AMA Pro Racing’s Director of Flat Track, “and our hearts go out to everyone affected by this tragedy. AMA Pro Racing’s thoughts are with all of those now coping with the after-effects.”

Ticket-holders will be offered refunds at their point of purchase.

[Source: AMA Pro Racing]

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Fairgrounds Tragedy Results in Cancellation of Indy Mile

INDIANAPOLIS, IN (August 19, 2011) – AMA Pro Racing has been informed by Indy Mile officials that the tragic events of August 13 — in which an overhead stage-rigging structure collapsed in high winds, killing five and injuring dozens — has resulted in the cancellation of Round 15 on the AMA Pro Harley-Davidson Insurance Flat Track calendar.

“A series of investigations into the causes of the accident have commenced,” stated the promoters’ release. ”The examination of the wreckage is expected to continue for an indefinite period of time. This has forced the closing of the Grandstand and one-mile dirt track to events until the investigation is completed and the debris is removed.”

“Losing a round is nothing compared to the loss of life,” said AMA Pro Racing’s Director of Flat Track, Dan Johnsen, “and our hearts go out to everyone affected by this tragedy. AMA Pro Racing’s thoughts are with all of those now coping with the after-effects.”

C. Bruce Hubley, CEO of The Promotion Company-Family Events, producers of the Indy Mile, added, “We deeply regret that we will not be able to hold the Indy Mile this year due to circumstances completely beyond our control.” Fans already holding tickets to the Indy Mile, noted the promoters’ release, will be offered refunds at their points of purchase.

The entire AMA Pro Racing family offers its deepest sympathies to the loved ones of those lost in Saturday’s accident.

By Dennis Chung