Last week, even in my perch some 2 hours away,  I was named by Milwaukee IndyFest as "One of the 26 Most Influential Social Media Users in Milwaukee."  I am part of the IndyFest 26 who will be assisting in the marketing and promotion of these three day event June 14-16 in Milwaukee, with the goal to make the event the most connected race event on the IZOD IndyCar Series tour.

To capture the flavor of the event, the group of 26 were invited to the Marcus Majestic Theater for a screening of "Super Speedway," an IMAX film starring Mario and Michael Andretti.  The film documents the trials and tribulations as the Newman-Haas team prepares for the upcoming racing season.  A few notes on the 50 minute film from 1997:

1. It was touching to see the relationship between father (Mario) and son (Michael), as skills and knowledge was passed from father to son (and to grandson Marco, who races as well).  It was also interesting to see the reaction to the film by Michael Andretti, who attended the film, sat next to me, and answered questions after the film.
2. There is never a "finished" product.  Modifications are continually going on...before, during, and after the race.  Chaos rules.
3. Communication between the driver and his team is absolutely crucial.  Andretti has to convey the problems he is experiencing on the track in clear, concise language to his team, so they can respond quickly.
4. Luck is huge.  The most telling moment in the film was when Mario Andretti said (paraphrasing) that you could pair the most sophisticated car with the most talented driver, and you still could lose.  What doesn't work in one race brings great success in another.  Think about that when teambuilding at work.

The real action begins on Thursday, June 14 with the Milwaukee IndyFest Street Party, featuring live music from The Toys, a Kids Zone featuring face painting, giant slide, hot slots racing and a bounce house, IndyCar Driver appearances from Mario and Michael Andretti, among others, and a judged car show with a range of categories of competition

On Friday, June 15, attendees can watch IndyCar practice and qualifying, the 100-lap Firestone Indy Lights race

Saturday,  June 16 is the day of the big race.  The IndyFest 225 will be televised live by ABC-TV, and shown around the world by ESPN International.  After the race will be a free Smash Mouth concert inside turn one.

Once again, full details about the event can be found here.

You can follow the IndyFest 26 and the IndyFest IndyCar Stars on Twitter!