It’s day 4 of activities here at IMS and that means fan of the day #4 was waiting to be found. As the cars rolled out of the garage and into pit lane to prepare for a much needed practice that had been put off by the seemingly never ending rain, we spotted the perfect candidate. Donna Noland sat on the bleachers directly behind pit lane and watched intently. Her interest and devotion were hard to miss. So, we stopped to chat…
Fan of the Day - Donna Noland
When was your first Indy 500?
1980 was Donna’s first Indy 500 and she has attended each one since. Every year she is seated in the same spot, front row behind pit lane, great seats if I do say so myself. She has traveled from wherever her job has taken her just to see the race. Even working in San Francisco couldn’t stop her.
Who is your favorite driver and why?
Mario Andretti without question is Donna’s favorite driver. She joked about his great wine as her reasoning, but added that his “spark” is what makes him so lovable. Mario may be her favorite but Donna is a fan of the Andretti name in general.
What is your favorite Indy 500 memory?
Donna says that every year is her favorite, the excitement never gets old. When asked about a specific memory she explained that during one race she was working hard on her laptop and was anchored to her cell phone determined to finish her work. At one point Mario Andretti walked by, pointed at her, and shouted in his Italian accent, “What you doing? It’s the race!”.
How should the Indianapolis Motor Speedway celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Indianapolis 500 next year?
Donna did not hesitate to answer that the full May schedule should return for the centennial year. She also is a fan of the souvenir pin give away and would love to see that as a part of next year.
What is your favorite encounter with a driver?
Yeah, Donna!!! It’s about freakin’ time…you’ve devoted your life to this race, and finally you’re celebrated for it. This was such a great article, too.
Donna: A true fan, indeed. Enjoy this year!
Hey Donna, this is Tom From Arizona!
I will be back on the usual schedule… hope to see you.
I am chairing an auction this October for our local high school and we are using an Indy theme. Any chance any of you know of any Indy stuff we can get for free. Maybe from past years/ Anything to bring more ‘Indy’ to the party!
Donna, may you rest in peace. Just heard the news. Lots of love from your dear friends in Cali. Say ‘hi’ to Purfie for us.
Donna i will miss seeing you at the races, But will always think of you in May. Rest in peace # 1 race fan.
Free from pain and the cares of this world. I will miss you my friend.
I miss you sister… you were a star and I am certain you will take your place in the universe.
Rest in Peace, dear friend. We like to think that you’re there in spirit at the celebration of Indy’s 100th anniversary.
Great post, I think blog owners should larn a lot from this weblog its really user friendly . “Frisbeetarianism is the belief that when you die, your soul goes up on the roof and gets stuck.” by George Carlin.