Rick Mears was the first driver in the field, completing his run with a track record of 207.847 mph. Rookie Michael Andretti was the next car out (207.805 mph), running surprisingly close to Mears. At 12:45 mph, Mario Andretti took to the track, with high expectations. His first lap was completed at 209.687 mph, a new one-lap track record. His second and third laps dropped off, however, and as he came out of turn four on the final lap his car quit. He coasted over the finish line to complete the run, but the average speed dropped to 207.467 mph. It would be good enough for the row 2, but a disappointment compared to his practice speeds earlier in the week.