**Indy 500 Milk Tradition: A Refreshing Victory Legacy**
The Indianapolis 500, one of the most prestigious auto races in the world, has a unique tradition that dates back to 1936: the winner is celebrated with a bottle of milk in victory lane. This iconic ritual began when Louis Meyer, after clinching his third Indy 500 title, was photographed enjoying a bottle of buttermilk. The moment was serendipitous; Meyer had not planned to drink milk but craved it on a hot day, recalling his mother’s advice that buttermilk would cool him down.
Meyer’s nostalgic choice resonated with fans and officials alike, leading to a request from a dairy executive to make milk the official drink for winners. From 1938 to 1941, and again after World War II in 1946, winners were presented with milk in victory lane. However, the tradition faced a brief interruption when Wilbur Shaw, a three-time winner and then president of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, replaced milk with cold water served in a silver chalice from 1947 to 1954. Following Shaw’s tragic death in a plane crash, the beloved milk tradition was reinstated in 1956.
In a twist, winners were also incentivized with a $400 prize for drinking milk, further solidifying its place in the race’s history. To date, 69 consecutive winners and a total of 76 champions have celebrated their victories with milk, making it a cherished symbol of success at the Indy 500.
The 109th Indianapolis 500 is set to take place on May 25, with coverage beginning at 10 a.m. ET. Fans can look forward to witnessing this time-honored tradition as the next champion enjoys their well-deserved bottle of milk in victory lane.
**FAQ**
**Why do Indy 500 winners drink milk?**
The tradition started in 1936 when Louis Meyer celebrated his victory with buttermilk, and it has since become a symbol of success at the race.
