Danica Patric in Indianapolis 500 - 2005.
Danica Patrick posted a fastest practice speed at 229.880 MPH of the month on May 15. But an error was made by Danica Patrick at the beginning of her qualifying attempt in Indy 500 and Danica Patrick failed to capture the pole position.
Danica Patrick became the first female driver ever to lead the race at Indianapolis when she stayed out one lap longer than her rivals during a set of green-flag pit stops. Danica Patrick overcame two crucial errors to finish fourth in the race, the same position in which she started. Danica Patrick’s car stalled in the pits about halfway through the 500-mile race, dropping her to the middle of the field. Shortly after reclaiming a spot in the top 10, Danica Patrick spun during a caution period, causing a four car accident. The accident caused damage to the nose and front wing of Danica Patrick’s car. Her pit crew promptly made repairs, and Danica Patrick managed to lead the race twice more, only to be passed by eventual champion Dan Wheldon with seven laps to go when she was forced to slow in order to conserve fuel. Danica Patrick’s fourth place was the highest ever finish for a female driver, besting Janet Guthrie’s 27-year-old ninth place finish record. Danica Patrick led 19 laps overall.