Alonso passes Indy rookie test with flying colors!

©McLaren

Fernando Alonso is good to go for the upcoming Indy 500 after completing the mandatory Rookie Orientation Programme this afternoon.

After Marco Andretti shook down the #29 McLaren-Honda-Andretti car, the Spanish driver settled in gradually, building up speed in increments and achieving 51 laps spread across four runs, hitting a top average of 219.654 mph.

A lunch break was initially scheduled mid-day but the risk of adverse weather setting in has encouraged Andretti Autosport to send Alonso back out to get extra mileage under his belt.

"This is so cool. I feel like a fan and I think we're all super-excited," said McLaren boss Zak Brown.

"Fernando is very excited. He's like a little kid. He's probably watched 25 Indy 500s. He's watched Ed Carpenter's entire race from an in-car camera. I've never seen him so happy."

As for the man of the day, Alonso's first reaction was one of joy and enthusiasm.

"It was fun! It was a good way to start to build the speed. Now, it starts the real deal," said the Spaniard.

Gallery: Alonso's Indy 500 challenger

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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.