GOLD Coast motor racing rookie Matt Brabham has ticked one off his bucket list by qualifying to race in the world famous Indianapolis 500.
And by doing so Brabham will become the third generation Brabham to start in the classic, following in the footsteps of his grandfather Sir Jack Brabham (four times) and his father Geoff who made 10 starts at the renowned racetrack.
It will be the 15th time a Brabham has started in what is arguably the greatest motorsport event in the world.
“It is a wonderful feeling to say that I’ve been able to qualify for the race — it is one of those special moments in life,” Matt said.
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READ NOW“We’re here and I’ve made it and I’m going to be racing in the Indianapolis 500.
“How cool is that?
“I was definitely nervous before going out there, I wanted to get my four laps in very cleanly and not mess it up and ensure that Team Murray made the race.
“Once I got in the car and got through the first lap I felt more comfortable heading into the second lap and it came together from there. I got four solid laps in.
“It’s a pretty special thing to be the third generation of Brabham to have a start in this race and to be only the third family to do that in 100 years is something that I’m very honoured to be in that situation and to be part of such a great family that is the Brabhams and this place is just steeped in history.”
Matt completed his only qualifying run yesterday early in the first round.
His four flawless laps were all in the 363.7km/h bracket, with the four-lap average being 364.33km/h.
Those runs qualified Matt in 26th position on times and he will now go for a higher pole position for the 500 next Sunday.
Today he has to re-qualify with one four-lap session against the clock that will set the order for the big race.
Brabham is going for a position on the grid between 10 and 33 because the top nine from yesterday’s qualifying will occupy the front three rows.
“Over the time, we’ve been reminiscing on the history of the race but also looking forward — being a rookie in the race is awesome,” Matt said.
“I’ve qualified for the Indianapolis 500. I’m happy.”