JR Hildebrand’s Indianapolis 500 was over before it ever really began, as he crashed in Turn 1 just four laps in to the 2013 Indy 500.
Indianapolis 500: JR Hildebrand wrecks in Turn 1
Hildebrand is part of Panther Racing, which means part owner Jim Harbaugh won’t be able to claim victory in Indianapolis.
The driver for Panther Racing, which is partially owned by San Francisco 49ers head coach Jim Harbaugh, was trying to work his way around the outside of James Hinchcliffe when he lost control of his car and backed into the wall.
Moments before wrecking, Hildebrand had just posted the fastest lap of the race, over 221 mph.
With this race being on Memorial Day weekend and with sponsorship from the National Guard it was a particularly bitter ending for Hildebrand, who had had his share of disappointments in the 500. In 2011 he was leading on the final lap coming through Turn 4 coming to the checkered flag when he drifted and slapped the wall. Dan Wheldon would go on to win with Hildebrand finishing second.
Here’s the National Guard’s reaction to Sunday’s crash:
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