Rick Mears' first Indy 500 victory out of four, in 1979, was the second for his car owner who has been a major figure in IndyCar ever since. Who is he?
Rick Mears Rick Ravon Mears (born December 3, 1951 in Wichita, Kansas), also known by the nickname "Rocket Rick," is a retired American race car driver. He is one of three men to win the Indianapolis 500 four times (1979, 1984, 1988, 1991), and is the current record-holder for pole positions in the race with six (1979, 1982, 1986, 1988, 1989, 1991). Mears is also a three-time Indycar series/World Series champion (1979, 1981 and 1982).
Parnelli Jones Rufus Parnell "Parnelli" Jones (born August 12, 1933 in Texarkana, Arkansas) is a retired American racing driver and race car owner. He is most remembered for his accomplishments at the Indianapolis 500. In 1962, he became the first driver to qualify over 150 mph. He won the race in 1963, then famously broke down while leading the 1967 race with three laps to go in a turbine car. During his career as an owner, he won the Indy 500 in 1970-1971 with driver Al Unser, Sr.