Dixon tops afternoon Indy 500 test

Scott Dixon’s morning Indy 500 testing success carried over into the afternoon, topping a session that ended early because of high-speed spins.

Dixon improved on his morning run to post a 227.187 mph lap.

The Kiwi was the only driver to average speeds in the 227 mph bracket.

Conor Daly was second fastest, averaging 226.985, while rookie racer Callum Ilott was third.

Scott McLaughlin was 17th fastest in the afternoon, averaging 222.242 mph.

It’s a fair way down on the P2 time McLaughlin set in the morning, but with his two Penske teammates finishing 19th and 24th, it suggests the team were focused on long-run pace.

McLaughlin can take satisfaction in knowing he set the fastest non-tow lap of the day (219.841 mph).

But talk of the day will be about the pit exit surface.

Three drivers spun on their out laps during the day, two of which saw cars hit the wall.

The last spin involved Will Power, who made Colton Herta lose control and hit a wall.

IndyCar officials suspended the rest of the test to study why so many cars were spinning on the pit apron.

The bit of tarmac was recently resealed, which some drivers cite as a possible reason for the apron being so slippery.

However, many drivers said the apron shouldn’t stop them from doing the final day of testing tomorrow. Instead, they say speed limits on that section of track should be reduced.