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Andretti, Mears and IndyCar return to Pocono Raceway for 1st time since 1989 for tire testing

Associated Press
Published | Updated

Driver Marco Andretti speaks during a press conference following IndyCar tire testing at Pocono Raceway in Long Pond Pa., Wednesday, April 10, 2013. (AP Photo/The Express-Times, Matt Smith) (The Associated Press)

Racing legend Mario Andretti wears a headset as he monitors the car of his grandson and IndyCar driver Marco Andretti during IndyCar tire testing at Pocono Raceway in Long Pond Pa., Wednesday, April 10, 2013. (AP Photo/The Express-Times, Matt Smith) (The Associated Press)

Open wheel racing finally made a return to Pocono Raceway.

Marco Andretti was the first IndyCar Series driver to take a practice lap Wednesday at the track, where about 300 fans attended the test. Andretti, Will Power and four-time IndyCar champion Dario Franchitti were among the current crop of drivers who hit speeds of 215 mph.

They hit the triangle track for a tire test in preparation for the race on July 7. It will be the first IndyCar at Pocono event since the race won by Danny Sullivan Aug. 20, 1989.

Track CEO Brandon Igdalsky says enthusiasm in the area is high for the return of open wheel racing.

The drivers will return July 4 for another open test.