Fastest Indy 500 rookie gets his check

Fernando Alonso is the happy recipient of the Fastest Rookie award from Indianapolis 500 qualifying.

With a four-lap qualifying speed of 231.300 mph, the Spanish driver will start fifth in the 101st running of the Indy 500 Sunday afternoon.

Indy legend and former McLaren driver Johnny Rutherford was on hand to deliver the prize package to Alonso which includes a $5,000 cash award, plaque and commemorative poster

Alonso’s name has also been added to the Fastest Rookie trophy on permanent display at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum.

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.