Dixon tops opening day of testing at Indy

©IndyCar

Six-time IndyCar Series champion Scott Dixon led the way on the first day of testing for next month's 106th running of the Indianapolis 500.

The Chip Ganassi Racing charger's best lap averaged 227.187 mph, but Dixon was aided by an aerodynamic tow on the 2.5-mile oval.

The Kiwi edged Ed Carpenter Racing's Conor Daly and Juncos Hollinger Racing's rookie Callum Ilott. Andretti Autosport's Romain Grosjean, also an absolute beginner at the Brickyard, ended his opening day of running in Indiana P15.

The day's action was cut short by 45 minutes following a strange pit exit crash by Meyer Shank Racing's Helio Castroneves that was followed by another baffling incident at the same spot involving Penske's Will Power.

©IndyCar

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.