Off-season Interview Series — Howdy Bell
History, Interviews — By More Front Wing Staff on January 7, 2011 12:01 pmThis one is for the fans of INDYCAR who, like me, have a very special place in the heart for the history of the Indianapolis 500 and all that goes along with it. One of the great traditions of the 500 is the radio broadcast and the IMS Radio Network. Since 1962, Howdy Bell — a name familiar to anyone who has been around the City of Indianapolis over the last 50 years — has been a part of that Indianapolis radio tradition. Last May, I had the great fortune to sit down with Howdy and discuss some of his favorite memories over the past 50 years, including being one of the few people that has worked alongside each of the five men who have been named the “Voice of the 500” and being only a few feet from Tom Sneva’s terrifying 1975 accident in turn 2.
Unfortunately, Howdy was called away to another commitment as we talked and we were never able to continue our conversation. Therefore, the interview ends quite abruptly. But for 20 minutes, it was great to be able to listen to the voice that has called so many great moments over the last half century at the Indianapolis 500.
To hear the interview, click on the player below or search ‘More Front Wing’ on iTunes.
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Tags: Howdy Bell, IMS Radio Network, Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Indy 500
Good stuff again Paul! Nothing better for me than backstories of who how why etc. of great races and events, especially when there’s a wealth of history covered there. Just hearing his voice reminds me of early summer days and getting the lap rundowns and wondering when Mario if Mario would be slowing down again…