Race and classic pictures

No caution flag for Georgina’s demise in Alabama IndyCar race

Alabama's Barber Motorsports Park is known for its twists, turns, and... eccentric art installations, courtesy of the circuit’s founder, George Barber.

But imagine drivers zooming around the track, elbows out, fighting for positions, when suddenly a dedicated female fan dangling precariously from a pedestrian bridge comes crashing down onto the side of the track!

‘Georgina’ the quirky avant-garde mannequin, bless her plastic heart, decided mid-way through Sunday’s IndyCar race at Barber that bridge life wasn’t for her.

After she landed with a thud, and the worse for wear, one expected a caution flag for such a dramatic display. But nope, the show went on!

IndyCar’s officials were even indifferent to A.J. Foyt Racing’s Santino Ferrucci outcry over the radio: “Guys, that lady hanging from the bridge fell!”

‘Georgina’ was eventually collected by safety crews when a caution period later materialized and she was carried out of harm’s way.

As for the action-packed race, Scott McLaughlin led a Team Penske 1-2, with teammate Will Power finishing second and impressive rookie Linus Lundqvist charging from P19 to P3 to complete the podium for Chip Ganassi Racing.

Penske's Scott McLaughlin powers to victory in Sunday's Children’s of Alabama Indy Grand Prix.

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.