The big events concerning this year’s race were the many changes made at the Speedway since last year’s race, the subsequent drop in speed, the retirement of two of the race’s four-time winners, the unexpected failure of another former winner to qualify for the race, and the outstanding performance of one of the most popular rookies in Speedway history. On the personal side, the first day of time trials was one of the finest I've ever had, and a mental mistake on my part almost cost us a chance to see the race.

This year's race will go down in history as one of the weirdest and most unexpected in history, highlighted by the large amount of caution time, cold weather, and the closest finish in the race's history. Four drivers made the most news at the Speedway this year.  They were Roberto Guerrero, Michael Andretti, Al Unser, Jr., and Scott Goodyear.

The third consecutive year of rain on the first day of time trials, the possibility of not being able to see the race because of rain, Rick Mears's fourth race victory, and the appearance of Norman Schwarzkopf at the race were among the highlights at the Speedway this year.