JANET GUTHRIE Blazed Trail as First Woman to Race Indianapolis 500 in 1977

May 29, 2025

by Associated Press // from www.chicagotribune.com

• JANET GUTHRIE shattered barriers on May 29, 1977, becoming the first woman to compete in the Indianapolis 500, crossing the finish line in 29th place while A.J. Foyt claimed his record fourth Indy 500 victory.
• Her participation marked a watershed moment in motorsports history, opening doors for future generations of women racers at the highest levels of American open-wheel competition.
• GUTHRIE’s groundbreaking drive came during an era when women faced significant resistance in professional racing, making her qualification and completion of the 500-mile race a testament to both skill and determination.

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