Interview: Jim Rathmann talks about winning the 1960 Indy 500

The 1960 Indy 500 featured a massive duel between American stars Jim Rathmann and Rodger Ward. In this interview the two protagonists discuss their epic battle.

After starting in the middle of the first row, Rathmann driving a Ken- Paul Special Watson/Offenhauser, ran at the front of the pack for the entire race. However from the midway point on, Rathmann and the 1959 Indy 500 winner Rodger Ward, were locked in a neck and neck duel for first that would go down in Indy 500 history as both drivers fought over the lead lap after lap.

Tyre wear became an issue in the closing laps, with Wards Firestone’s wearing through to the canvas, forcing him to slow. Rathmann was able to keep some rubber on his tyres just long enough to outrace Ward and claim the US$110 000 first prize.

The race featured the most recorded lead changes in Indy 500 history.