The roar of the crowd confirmed that Jim Nabors’ signature rendition of “Back Home Again in Indiana” had ended with a flourish. In the remaining moments that were left to steel his nerves, 37-year-old rookie Donnie Beechler tugged one more time at his belts and adjusted his gloves. It was a different time.

Two cars to his left sat rugged Jack Hewitt, while old midget sparring partner Billy Boat would lead the field of 33 in A. J. Foyt’s car. It was a surreal moment and almost too unfathomable to believe.