**Pato O’Ward Reflects on Near Miss at Indy 500, Eyes Future Victory**
As the Indy 500 approaches, Arrow McLaren’s Pato O’Ward recalls the emotional rollercoaster of last year’s race. Just a year ago, O’Ward was living a dream, envisioning himself crossing the finish line ahead of his competitors. “I keep racing multiple Indy 500s in my head. It’s crazy,” he shared last May, emphasizing the unique pressure of the event.
The 2022 race saw O’Ward leading with just one lap remaining, only to be overtaken by Josef Newgarden, who clinched the victory. Instead of celebrating, O’Ward found himself dejected, slumped over his car as his team offered consolation. This marked his second runner-up finish in three years, intensifying the emotional weight of the moment. “It was a very raw scene of what it’s like to be just right there, but just missing it,” he reflected. “I dedicate everything for this moment, and sometimes it’s just right there, but I haven’t quite gotten it.”
Despite past disappointments, O’Ward remains optimistic as he prepares for this year’s race. “This time last year, I had like three [did not finish] by this point,” he laughed, highlighting the unique experience of the month leading up to the Indy 500. “It’s one of the only months all year when you really get to enjoy the present.”
The sting of last year’s defeat lingers, but O’Ward is determined to learn from it. “You gotta be up at the front the last stint,” he advised, noting the importance of strategy and adaptability in the race. “There’s a lot of different strategies going on, and it’s a race that constantly wants you to be flexible.”
In the current season, O’Ward is still in search of his first victory, with two top-five and three top-10 finishes, placing him fourth in the NTT IndyCar Series standings. His best performance this year came at the Grand Prix, where he showcased his potential.
As the Indy 500 approaches, O’Ward’s focus remains on seizing the opportunity to finally achieve his dream of victory at “The Brickyard.”
**FAQ**
*What did Pato O’Ward learn from his previous Indy 500 experiences?*
O’Ward learned the importance of being at the front during the final stint of the race and the need for flexibility in strategy, as the race can change dramatically with the emergence of yellow flags.
